Twelve life areas to work through, whether or not you have saved steps yet.
1. Immediate needs
The first 72 hours and first 30 days. Cover the basics first.
- Write down where you will sleep for the first three nights.
- Find the nearest place for a meal and a shower.
- Save the crisis line 988 and a local warmline in your phone.
2. Housing
A safe place to stay, then a plan for something longer term.
- List two or three housing programs you can call this week.
- Note any residency rules tied to your supervision.
- Ask each program about wait times and what they need from you.
Questions to ask your CCO or attorney: Ask your CCO which addresses or zones are allowed for you, and how to get an address approved.
3. ID and documents
You will need ID to get most other help.
- Request or confirm your state ID or driver license.
- Find your Social Security card or start a replacement.
- Ask about your birth certificate if you do not have a copy.
4. Health
Physical health, mental health, and substance use, including MAT.
- Set up Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage if you do not have it.
- Fill any prescriptions before your current supply runs out.
- Find a clinic or counselor who takes new patients near you.
5. Employment and income
Work, and money coming in while you look.
- List the jobs and skills you already have.
- Find one reentry-friendly employer or job program to contact.
- Ask about help with work clothes, tools, or a bus pass.
6. Benefits
Apple Health, SNAP, TANF, and ABD can steady your first months.
- Apply for SNAP (food) as soon as you are able.
- Check whether you qualify for TANF or ABD cash support.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
Questions to ask your CCO or attorney: Ask a benefits navigator how a past conviction affects each program, since the rules differ.
7. Legal and LFOs
Court debt, conditions, and any records work.
- Get the full list of your legal financial obligations (LFOs).
- Ask about lowering payments or converting them to community service.
- Note deadlines for anything you must file or attend.
Questions to ask your CCO or attorney: Ask your attorney about your LFO balance, payment options, and whether you can vacate or seal any records.
8. Transportation
How you will get to work, appointments, and check-ins.
- Find your local transit routes and any reduced-fare pass.
- Map your route to your supervision check-ins.
- Ask programs whether they provide rides or bus tickets.
9. Family and reunification
Reconnecting with children and family, at a safe pace.
- Write down who you want to reconnect with, and how.
- Note any no-contact orders or parenting-plan terms.
- Ask about family support or mediation services near you.
Questions to ask your CCO or attorney: Ask your attorney or CCO about contact rules and any family court steps before you reach out.
10. Education
Finishing a credential or starting new training.
- Decide on one goal: GED, a certificate, or college.
- Find a program that supports students with a record.
- Ask about financial aid and reentry scholarships.
11. Community and peer support
People who have been where you are, and a place to belong.
- Find one peer support or reentry group to visit.
- Save the number of a mentor or someone you trust.
- Plan one small thing that connects you to others each week.
12. Connectivity
A phone, an email, and a way to stay reachable.
- Set up or recover an email address you control.
- Look into a low-cost phone or the Lifeline program.
- Find a library or center with free internet near you.