Reentry Checklist for Returning Citizens
A comprehensive, step-by-step guide to successful reentry after incarceration. Break down the big picture into manageable steps for staying safe, staying free, and building a better life.
How to Use This Checklist
Go Step by Step
Don't try to do everything in one day. Pick a few items each week and work through them.
Check Things Off
Mark your progress as you go. Small victories add up quickly.
Ask for Help
Family, friends, reentry case managers, and mentors can walk through steps with you.
Keep It Handy
Carry a copy in your folder, wallet, or post it somewhere you'll see daily.
Important Note
This list is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone's conditions are different — supervision rules vary by state, supervising officer, and individual circumstances. Use this checklist as a guide, not a substitute for your supervision requirements. Always confirm anything you're unsure about with your supervising officer.
If You Have Internet Restrictions
Some parts of this checklist mention websites or online applications. If your supervision limits internet use, practical alternatives are provided throughout this guide, including:
• Job search: Visit your local American Job Center for paper applications and in-person assistance
• Housing search: Check newspaper classifieds or ask community organizations for help
• Health services: Dial 211 from any phone to connect with local services
• Education: Visit community colleges or libraries directly for program information
1. First Steps
Essential documents and basic setup for reentry
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- Start with ID and Social Security card - you'll need these for everything else
- Many banks offer second chance programs for people with banking history issues
- Keep all important documents in one secure, organized place
- Make copies of everything and store them separately
2. Housing
Securing safe, compliant housing arrangements
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- NEVER sign a lease without confirming address compliance with your supervising officer
- Transitional housing can provide structure and support during early reentry
- 211 is available 24/7 and connects you to local housing resources
- Start saving for housing costs as early as possible - deposits can be substantial
3. Employment & Income
Finding work and building financial stability
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- American Job Centers offer free services including resume help and interview practice
- Be honest about your background but focus on your skills and commitment to change
- Highlight any education, training, or certifications you earned while incarcerated
- Some industries are more open to hiring people with records - research these first
- WOTC and Federal Bonding can make you more attractive to employers
Offline Alternatives
- Visit the Job Center in person; ask for paper job postings and staff support
- Use newspaper classifieds; ask local nonprofits for employer lists
4. Health & Wellness
Maintaining physical and mental health
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- Don't wait for health problems to get worse - preventive care is cheaper
- Medicaid applications can take time, so apply immediately upon release
- Never let prescriptions run out - plan refills in advance
- 988 is free, confidential, and available 24/7 for mental health crises
- Support groups provide community and accountability
- Simple breathing exercises can help manage stress and anxiety
Offline Alternatives
- Go to your local health department or social services office for Medicaid help
5. Technology Basics
Essential digital skills for modern life
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- Lifeline provides free or low-cost phones for qualifying individuals
- Start with basic functions before moving to advanced features
- Email is essential for job applications and communicating with services
- GPS navigation can help you get to appointments and interviews on time
- Libraries offer free computer classes and internet access
Offline Alternatives
- Ask supervising officer or reentry program if they provide phones
- Ask Job Center staff to help set up email on their computers
- Ask for a paper bus schedule or transit map
6. Legal Obligations
Staying compliant with supervision requirements
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- Punctuality shows respect and responsibility - arrive early to appointments
- Use a physical calendar or phone calendar to track all requirements
- When in doubt about travel, ask first - violations aren't worth the risk
- Over-communicate with your supervising officer rather than under-communicate
- Payment plans show good faith effort even when money is tight
- Documentation protects you if there are ever questions about compliance
7. Family & Support Network
Rebuilding relationships and community connections
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- Relationships take time to heal - be patient and consistent
- Actions speak louder than words - show change through behavior
- It's okay to end relationships that threaten your progress
- Community involvement helps build positive social connections
- Family members should understand supervision rules to avoid accidental violations
8. Daily Living
Building healthy routines and life skills
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- Consistent routines provide structure and reduce decision fatigue
- Basic life skills like cooking and budgeting build confidence and save money
- Reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining employment and appointments
- Acknowledging progress, even small steps, helps maintain motivation
Offline Alternatives
- Ask supervising officer about approved transportation resources
9. Long-Term Growth
Building toward a better future
Action Items
Helpful Tips
- SMART goals help you focus on achievable, meaningful objectives
- Education and training open doors to better employment opportunities
- Pell Grants can make education affordable for eligible individuals
- Giving back to your community helps build purpose and connections
- Some states offer pathways to reduce or remove registry requirements
Offline Alternatives
- Visit your local community college or adult education center
Emergency & Essential Resources
211
Local housing, food, and reentry services
Dial 211
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Mental health crisis support
Dial 988
Remember
This list is a living document. Check things off as you complete them, and keep adding goals as you move forward. Every small step is progress toward building the life you want. You've got this! 💪