Re-Entry Toolkit

Your step-by-step guide to navigating life after incarceration. You don't have to do this alone.

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Uncarcerated Re-Entry Toolkit

A step-by-step guide to navigating life after incarceration.

Printed October 29, 2026 · uncarcerated.org/resources/reentry-toolkit

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Step 1 Before Release

Start preparing while you still have time inside. These steps will make your first days out much smoother.

  1. Request your records

    Ask for copies of your medical records, educational certificates, and any program completion documents before release.

  2. Notify family or support contacts

    Let your family, friends, or re-entry support contacts know your expected release date and any plans.

  3. Create a housing plan

    Identify where you will stay on your first night out. Contact transitional housing programs if needed.

    Find Housing Resources

  4. Start job readiness preparation

    Work on your resume, practice interview skills, and research background-friendly employers in your area.

  5. Gather ID document information

    Know your Social Security number, birth certificate location, and what you will need to get a state ID.

  6. Plan for medications

    If you take any medications, arrange to have at least a 30-day supply or a prescription ready upon release.

Step 2 First 48 Hours

The first two days are critical. Focus on safety, shelter, and getting oriented.

  1. Check in with your parole/probation officer

    This is usually required within 24-48 hours of release. Know the address and bring any paperwork.

  2. Get to your housing

    Go directly to your planned housing. If plans fell through, contact 211 or a local shelter immediately.

    Find Emergency Shelter

  3. Get food and basic supplies

    Visit a food bank, apply for SNAP benefits, or connect with a local mutual aid organization.

    Find Food Resources

  4. Set up emergency contacts

    Program important numbers into your phone: PO, family, sponsor/mentor, crisis hotline (988), and local services.

  5. Take a breath

    The outside world can be overwhelming. It is okay to take it one hour at a time. You made it.

Step 3 IDs & Documents

You need identification to access almost every service. Start here.

  1. Get a state ID or driver's license

    Visit your local DMV. Some states offer free IDs for recently released individuals. Bring your release papers.

  2. Request your Social Security card

    Visit ssa.gov or your local SSA office. You will need proof of identity and citizenship or immigration status.

    SSA Card Replacement

  3. Obtain your birth certificate

    Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born. Some re-entry programs can help cover the fee.

    Find Vital Records Office

  4. Register to vote

    In most states, your right to vote is restored after completing your sentence. Check your state's rules.

    Know Your Rights

  5. Open a bank account

    Many banks and credit unions offer second-chance accounts for people with past financial issues.

  6. Get a phone

    Look into Lifeline programs for free or discounted phone service. A phone is essential for jobs and services.

Step 4 Housing

Finding stable housing is one of the biggest challenges. Here are your options and resources.

  1. Research transitional housing

    Transitional housing programs provide temporary housing while you stabilize. Many include case management and support services.

    Find Housing Resources

  2. Apply for rental assistance

    Programs like Section 8, HUD housing, and local assistance funds can help with rent deposits and ongoing costs.

  3. Know your tenant rights

    Landlords cannot always deny you housing based on a record. Know your rights under local and federal fair housing laws.

    Know Your Rights

  4. Set up utilities

    Contact utility companies to set up electricity, water, and internet. Ask about low-income assistance programs like LIHEAP.

  5. Consider roommate options

    Sharing housing can make rent more affordable. Look into sober living homes or shared housing programs.

Step 5 Employment

Getting a job with a record is hard but not impossible. These resources can help.

  1. Build or update your resume

    Include any skills, certifications, or education gained during incarceration. Focus on what you can do, not where you have been.

  2. Search background-friendly job boards

    Websites like 70MillionJobs, Honest Jobs, and Dave's Killer Bread Foundation list employers who hire people with records.

    70 Million Jobs

  3. Connect with a workforce development program

    Many cities have free programs that help with job placement, training, and interview preparation for justice-impacted individuals.

    Find Employment Resources

  4. Practice interviewing

    Prepare answers for common questions, including how to address your record honestly and positively.

  5. Know your workplace rights

    Ban the Box laws, EEOC guidance, and state-specific protections limit how employers can use your record.

    Know Your Rights

  6. Explore skills training

    Trade programs, CDL training, tech bootcamps, and apprenticeships can open doors to higher-paying careers.

    Find Education Resources

  7. Consider career counseling

    A career counselor can help you identify strengths, set goals, and create a realistic career plan.

Step 6 Health & Wellness

Take care of your body and mind. You deserve support and healing.

  1. Find a primary care provider

    Community health centers offer low-cost or free care regardless of insurance status. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) cannot turn you away.

    Find Healthcare Resources

  2. Access mental health support

    Re-entry is stressful. Therapy, counseling, and peer support groups can help you process trauma and build resilience.

    Find Mental Health Resources

  3. Connect with substance use support

    If you are in recovery, find local AA/NA meetings, a sponsor, or a treatment program. SAMHSA's helpline is 1-800-662-4357.

    Find Substance Support

  4. Apply for health insurance

    You may qualify for Medicaid, ACA marketplace plans, or state programs. Many states allow enrollment upon release.

  5. Establish healthy routines

    Regular sleep, meals, and exercise make a huge difference. Start small and build from there.

  6. Find a peer support group

    Connecting with others who have been through similar experiences can be incredibly powerful. Look for re-entry support groups in your area.

    Join Discussions

Step 7 Building Your Future

Once the basics are covered, it is time to invest in your long-term goals.

  1. Pursue education or GED

    Many community colleges offer free or reduced tuition for justice-impacted students. Pell Grants are now available to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.

    Find Education Resources

  2. Learn financial literacy

    Understanding budgeting, credit building, and saving will set you up for long-term stability. Many nonprofits offer free financial coaching.

  3. Get involved in your community

    Volunteering, attending community events, and joining advocacy organizations can help you build connections and purpose.

    Find Events

  4. Find a mentor

    A mentor who has been through re-entry can provide guidance, accountability, and encouragement. Check our Mentor Match program.

    Find a Mentor

  5. Set personal goals

    Write down your short-term and long-term goals. Revisit them regularly. Celebrate your progress — every step counts.

For the live, up-to-date version of this toolkit visit uncarcerated.org/resources/reentry-toolkit.