Checklist for Leaving an Abuser

Here are some helpful items to get together when you are planning on leaving an abusive situation. Keep these items in a safe place until you are ready to leave, or if you need to leave suddenly. If you have children, take them. And take your pets too (if you can).

Identification for yourself and your children	birth certificates social security cards (or numbers written on paper if you can't find the cards) driver's license photo identification or passports welfare identification green card
Important personal papers	marriage certificate divorce papers custody orders legal protection or restraining orders health insurance papers and medical cards medical records for all family members children's school records investment papers/records and account numbers work permits immigration papers rental agreement/lease or house deed car title, registration, and insurance information
Funds	cash credit cards ATM card checkbook and bankbook (with deposit slips)
Keys	house car safety deposit box or post office box
A way to communicate	phone calling card cell phone address book
Medications	at least 1 month's supply for all medicines you and your children are taking, as well as a copy of the prescriptions
A way to get by	jewelry or small objects you can sell, if you run out of money or stop having access to your accounts
Things to help you cope	pictures keepsakes children's small toys or books

If you're a victim of violence at the hands of someone you know or love or you are recovering from an assault by a stranger, you are not alone. To get immediate help and support call
The National Domestic Violence Hotline at:
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or
1-800-787-3224 (TTY)

What to Take With You When You Leave an Abuser - A Planning Checklist