Getting out of jail or prison
What to do first
- Get an ID. Start with a birth certificate and a Social Security card if you need them.
- Apply for Medicaid. You can apply any time of year.
- Apply for food benefits.
- If you got SSI or disability benefits before, call Social Security to start them again.
- If you have nowhere to stay tonight, call 211.
Talk it through
Tell us more about what happened. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Dates that matter
These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.
60 days
Health coverage
Getting out of jail or prison lets you sign up for a Marketplace plan. You have 60 days after release.
Source: HealthCare.gov
Help from New Mexico
New Mexico programs that fit what happened. Each agency decides who qualifies.
New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
Motor Vehicle Division driver licenses and identification cards
The Motor Vehicle Division issues New Mexico driver licenses and state identification cards.
Ways to apply:OnlineIn person
New Mexico Department of Health
Vital Records and Health Statistics
The bureau issues eligible applicants certified New Mexico birth and death records.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
New Mexico Health Care Authority
Medicaid
In New Mexico, Medicaid is called Turquoise Care.
Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible New Mexico residents.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
New Mexico Health Care Authority
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
SNAP helps eligible households pay for groceries.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Homelessness assistance programs
The Office of Housing funds local projects that provide shelter, housing navigation, and homelessness prevention.
Ways to apply:In person
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Office of Housing programs
The Office of Housing coordinates state housing investments and programs, including assistance delivered through local partners.
Ways to apply:In person
New Mexico Health Care Authority
Behavioral Health Services
The state provides behavioral health information and connects residents with treatment services.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal help
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
SSA.gov
Starting Social Security again
SSI and disability payments stop while someone is held in jail or prison. After release, contact Social Security to ask about starting them again.
CareerOneStop.org
Help finding work
CareerOneStop, from the U.S. Department of Labor, has job help for people with a record, including American Job Centers near you.
Social Security Administration
Replace a Social Security card
Get a free replacement Social Security card if yours was lost, stolen or damaged. Many people can ask online.
Request it online with a my Social Security account, or visit or call Social Security. It is always free.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Help near you
Find county and state offices near you, or call 211 to talk to someone about help in your area.
Talk to a person
- NM211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988