Domestic violence help — confidential, immediate support
If you are in danger right now, call 911. For immediate confidential help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (available 24/7). They can connect you to local shelters, legal help, and safety planning resources without your abuser knowing.
Fastest options first
Free, confidential, available 24/7. Call or text START to 88788. Online chat also available. Connects you to local resources immediately.
Confidential safe housing with no record of your location shared. Shelters provide beds, meals, safety planning, legal advocacy, and support services. Call ahead — space may be limited.
An advocate can help you create a plan for leaving safely — what to take, where to go, how to protect your children — before you leave.
A legal order prohibiting your abuser from contacting or approaching you. Legal aid can help you file at no cost. Emergency protective orders can sometimes be issued same-day.
What you may need to bring
- Photo ID (yours and your children's if possible)
- Birth certificates and Social Security cards if accessible
- Medications and medical records
- Phone charger
- Some cash or cards
- Important documents (immigration papers, financial records)
- A change of clothes for you and children
- Note: Leave quickly and safely first — documents can be replaced
What to expect
When you contact a DV hotline or shelter, you will speak with an advocate who will assess your immediate safety needs and connect you to local resources. Shelter stays typically last 30–90 days and include case management, legal advocacy, counseling, and help planning for long-term safety and housing. Your location will not be disclosed without your consent.
Find local resources near you
Enter your ZIP code on the search page to see verified local options sorted by distance and availability.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the National Domestic Violence Hotline?
- The National DV Hotline (1-800-799-7233) is a free, confidential 24/7 service that connects people experiencing domestic violence to local resources, safety planning, and support. Text START to 88788 or chat online at thehotline.org.
- Is domestic violence shelter really confidential?
- Yes. Domestic violence shelter locations are kept strictly confidential. Your abuser cannot find out where you are through the shelter. Staff are trained to protect your safety and will not disclose your location.
- I am not sure if what is happening to me is abuse. Can I still call?
- Yes. Advocates are trained to talk through situations without judgment. If you feel unsafe, controlled, or afraid in your relationship, you are welcome to call — you do not need to be certain it is abuse to reach out.
- Can men and LGBTQ+ people use DV services?
- Yes. Domestic violence affects people of all genders and sexual orientations. The National DV Hotline serves everyone. Many local shelters and programs have specific services or referrals for men and LGBTQ+ survivors.
- What if I have children? Can I bring them to a shelter?
- Yes. Most domestic violence shelters accept children and prioritize keeping families together. Tell the hotline or shelter about your children when you call so they can prepare accordingly.
Data sources: 211 networks, nonprofit registries, government databases, and community-verified listings. Resources are reviewed for accuracy. Learn about our data.