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Life change guide

I was recently released from incarceration

Find out what government benefits and programs you may qualify for after being released from incarceration.

6 steps, in order4 programs that can helpFree to apply

Where to start

Getting back on your feet after release takes time and planning. The good news: there are programs designed to help you right now, and applying is free.

Start with the basics—food, health care, and a way to stay connected. Then look into work support if you're job hunting. These programs don't judge your past. They just look at your current situation to decide if you qualify.

Here's what to do first, in order.

Do these first

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Apply for SNAP to get food help

    SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) gives you a card each month to buy food. You can apply through your state's SNAP office or online. It's free to apply, and only the state decides if you qualify based on your income and household size.

    About SNAP
  2. 2

    Step 2

    Get health coverage through Medicaid

    Medicaid is free or low-cost health coverage. You can apply at any time through your state Medicaid agency or HealthCare.gov. Having coverage means you can see a doctor, get prescriptions, and get mental health support without high costs.

    About Medicaid
  3. 3

    Step 3

    Apply for Lifeline phone and internet discount

    Lifeline helps you get a phone or internet at a reduced cost. This keeps you connected to jobs, services, and support. You may qualify if you're on SNAP or Medicaid, or if your income is low enough. Apply at Lifeline's website.

    About Lifeline
  4. 4

    Step 4

    File for unemployment if you lost a job

    If you were laid off or lost work, you may qualify for unemployment insurance. Contact your state's unemployment agency as soon as you can. It usually takes two to three weeks to get your first check, so apply early.

    About Unemployment
  5. 5

    Step 5

    Look into job training and reentry programs

    Many states and nonprofits offer free job training, resume help, and placement services for people returning to work. These programs understand your situation and can help you find stable employment faster.

  6. 6

    Step 6

    Connect with a local reentry or case manager

    Look for nonprofits or government agencies in your area that work with people after release. They can help you navigate benefits, housing, health care, and job resources all in one place.

Programs that can help

SNAPState-run · USDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.MedicaidState-run · Centers for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.LifelineFederal · FCC / Universal Service Administrative CompanyLifeline is a federal program that may give households with low income a discount on phone or internet service.UnemploymentState-run · US Department of Labor / state workforce agenciesUnemployment insurance pays temporary cash benefits to workers who lose their jobs and meet their state's rules.