Before you leave care, make sure you have a discharge plan that includes:

• A stable and safe place to live that you can afford
• A job
• Financial aid if you are continuing your education or training
• Health insurance
• Medical or mental health treatment providers if you need them
• Contact information for siblings who are still in care
• Phone numbers for people you can call in an emergency
• Your health and school records
• Information about what aftercare services or benefits you are eligible for

Before you leave care, you should also:

Register to Vote

Voter registration forms are available at libraries, post offices, state and local office buildings, party headquarters, and many other local businesses. You can also register by calling 412-350-4510 or visiting www.dos.state.pa.us/voting.

Request a Copy of your Birth Certificate

If you are 18, you can request your birth certificate yourself. Send $10 with a copy of a valid photo ID to: Division of Vital Records, 101 South Mercer Street Rm 401, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16101. If you are under 18, a family member or legal representative can request your birth certificate for you. The person making the request must include a copy of his or her photo ID (not yours) with the request).

Get a State Identification Card (Non-driver Photo Identification Card)

If you are 16 or 17 years old, you will need one form of identification (birth certificate, valid US passport, or Military Photo ID) and a Social Security Card. If you are 18 or older you will also need to submit two forms of proof of residency (utility bills, tax records, lease agreements, etc.). To find the Penndot Driver’s License Center see http://www.dot3.state.pa.us/locator.jsp

Obtain a Social Security Card

You will need an application, proof of citizenship, and proof of your identity. To get details on what to send or bring in, see www.ssa.gov/phila/. To find the Social Security office nearest you call 1-800-772-1213.

Have Proof of Citizenship/Valid Immigration Status

Talk to your lawyer and an immigration lawyer to make sure you have proof of your citizenship status before you leave care.

Last updated: Summer 2007