If You or Someone You Know Is in Danger
- Emergency: Call 911
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) — 24/7, free, confidential
- Text: START to 88788
- Chat: thehotline.org
- TTY (deaf/hard of hearing): 1-800-787-3224
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 (RAINN)
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Safety & Protection — Domestic Violence Resources
Domestic violence affects millions of people every year. If you are experiencing abuse — physical, emotional, financial, sexual, or any other form — you are not alone, and it is not your fault. This section provides free, comprehensive information to help you understand your options, protect yourself, and access the resources you need. Everything here is free. There are no forms to fill out, no logins, and no one will contact you unless you ask them to.
Last updated:
Guides & Resources
What they are, the different types (emergency, temporary, permanent), how to file for free, what they cover, and what happens if the abuser violates the order.
Create a personalized safety plan whether you are staying, preparing to leave, or have already left. Covers digital safety, financial safety, safety for children, and your emergency bag checklist.
How to find emergency shelters (call 1-800-799-7233), what to expect, transitional housing, Section 8 and VAWA housing protections, and what to do if the shelter is full.
Recognizing financial abuse, opening a bank account without the abuser knowing, rebuilding credit, and accessing government benefits (TANF, SNAP, Medicaid).
VAWA protections, immigration relief (U-Visa, T-Visa, VAWA self-petition), workplace protections, custody considerations, address confidentiality programs, and free legal help.
What to say and what not to say, how to support a friend or family member, when to involve authorities, what to do if they go back, and taking care of yourself as a supporter.
What You Should Know
- --You do not need money to get help. Shelters are free. Protective orders are free. Hotlines are free.
- --You do not need to press charges to get a protective order or access shelter and services.
- --Immigration status does not matter. Shelters, hotlines, and legal aid serve everyone. You may also qualify for a U-Visa or VAWA self-petition.
- --Leaving is not your only option right now. Safety planning can help you stay safer whether you leave, stay, or are not sure yet.
- --Domestic violence is not just physical. Emotional, financial, sexual, and digital abuse are all forms of DV. You do not need visible injuries to seek help.
- --DV affects all genders. Anyone can be a survivor. Resources on this site and through the National DV Hotline are available to everyone.
Related Resources on SecondChanceInfo
Rebuilding your life after abuse touches many areas. These guides can help with the practical next steps.
- Second chance apartments by city
Find housing that works with your situation.
- Second chance bank accounts
Open an account even with damaged credit or ChexSystems history.
- SNAP / food stamps guide
Apply for food assistance — DV survivors may qualify for expedited benefits.
- Documents & ID guides
Replace lost or missing identification documents.
- Free government phone (Lifeline)
Get a phone that is not connected to the abuser's plan.
- Utility shutoff protections
Many states protect DV survivors from utility disconnection.
- Expungement by state
Clear records that may have resulted from an abusive situation.
- Companies that hire people rebuilding their lives
Find employers that offer second chances.
You Are Not Alone — Help Is Available 24/7
- National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) — call or chat at thehotline.org
- Text: START to 88788
- Emergency: Call 911
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 (RAINN)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741