Domestic Violence: Checklist of Things to Take When You Leave

Overview

If you want to save this information but don't think it is safe to take it home, see if a trusted friend can keep it for you. Plan ahead. Know who you can call for help, and memorize the phone number. Be careful online too. Your online activity may be seen by others. Do not use your personal computer or device to read about this topic. Use a safe computer, such as one at work, a friend's home, or a library.

Here are some helpful items to get together when you are planning on leaving an abusive situation. Keep these items with someone you trust until you are ready to leave or in case you need to leave suddenly. If you have children, take them. And take your pets, too, if possible.

Checklist for preparing to leave an abusive situation
Things to take	Examples
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 passport 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 deed to your home Car title, registration, and insurance information Records of police reports you have filed, or other evidence of abuse
Funds	Cash Credit cards ATM card Checkbook and bankbook (with deposit slips)
Keys	Home Car Safety deposit box or post office box
A way to communicate	Contact information for friends or relatives Cell phone Personal laptop computer
Medicines	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

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: October 1, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 1, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.