Returning Citizens
You're home. Now you build.
The first 90 days set the rest. Here's a practical roadmap: ID, work, housing, and the people who'll actually help.
The four locks to pick first
Almost everything else depends on these four. Get them in roughly this order:
Today
Your ID. State ID or driver's license. Without it, you can't open a bank account, get a job, or sign a lease.
This week
Your Social Security card. Then your birth certificate. Then a bank account. Then start work.
1. State ID
Your state DMV will replace it. Most states have a re-entry ID program with reduced fees or fee waivers if you're recently released. Bring your release papers, any old ID you can find, and proof of address (a shelter or family member's utility bill works). See our ID & Documents page for state-by-state info.
2. Social Security card
Free at any Social Security office. Bring your state ID and proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers). Apply at ssa.gov.
3. Bank account
If you've been denied for ChexSystems issues, look for "second-chance" checking accounts. Many credit unions offer them. Some banks (Bank of America's SafeBalance, Capital One 360) do too. A bank account makes everything else — job, housing, paying bills — easier.
4. Work
Look for "fair-chance employers" — employers who actively hire people with records. Major chains, federal contractors, building trades, and many small businesses are fair-chance. Your state labor department or local re-entry organization can give you a list. The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit pays employers to hire returning citizens — many will hire you specifically because of it.
Housing
Public housing and Section 8 generally screen for criminal history but rules vary by housing authority and offense. Many private landlords are far more flexible than public housing. Look for "second-chance landlords" through local re-entry orgs. A character reference from a parole officer or program director helps a lot.
Expungement and record sealing
Many states allow expungement, sealing, or "clean slate" relief for older offenses. Eligibility varies hugely. Free legal aid and public defender offices often do expungement clinics. Search "[your state] expungement clinic" or call legal aid through 211.
Restoring benefits
SNAP, Medicaid, and even voting rights can usually be restored on release. SNAP and Medicaid are not blocked by most felony convictions in most states (though some drug-related felonies have older restrictions in some states). Apply the day you're out.
Where to get help
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→ First 30 days home: ID, work, and the people who'll actually help