Not safe at home

Safety first, then a place to stay and money of your own.

If you are in danger now, call 911

You can talk with an advocate any time. It is free and private, and they can help you make a safety plan.

If someone checks your phone, use a private window or a safer device.

If you are in danger now, call 911.
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788. Someone answers any time.
Use a phone or computer the other person cannot check, and a private browser window.
Ask the hotline or 211 about shelter and your state's programs for people leaving abuse.
When you are safe, apply for health coverage, food and cash help in your own name.

If it is safe to type, tell us what is going on. Use a private browser window on a device the other person cannot check.

These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.

60 days
Health coverage
People leaving domestic abuse can sign up for their own Marketplace plan outside open enrollment. You have 60 days.
Source: HealthCare.gov

These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.

TheHotline.org
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Free and confidential. Advocates can help you make a safety plan and find shelter near you.
Official page Call 1-800-799-7233 Text START to 88788
LSC.gov
Free legal help
Legal aid offices give free legal help to people with low income. Find the one that serves you with the Legal Services Corporation's search.
Official page
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
HealthCare.gov
The federal marketplace for health insurance plans. Many people can get lower monthly costs based on their income.
Apply online at HealthCare.gov or by phone during open enrollment, or after a big change like losing other coverage.
Apply on HealthCare.gov Call 1-800-318-2596

Checked on October 9, 2026

Checked on October 9, 2026