HDS How To Guides

How To Guides from Holistic Defense Services


Expungement Resources

Expunging a conviction can have significant benefits for individuals who have been convicted of various offenses. Here are some resources for expungement assistance.

How to Get an ID

When you apply for an ID, you have the option to get a regular ID or a Real ID. Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID will be required to board domestic flights or access federal buildings. Required documents and how to apply for a state ID are covered in our pdf document.

How to Get a Birth Certificate

A birth certificate is your first legal proof of identity. Birth certificates are necessary for obtaining a social security number, applying for a passport, enrolling in schools, getting a driver’s license, and gaining employment. Here is a pdf document describing how to obtain your Missouri Birth Certificate.

How to Reinstate Your Driver’s License

If someone’s driver’s license has been suspended or revoked, they might need to go through a process to reinstate it – or, in other words, get their driving privileges back. What to do and how to apply for reinstatement is described in this pdf document.

How to Apply for Medicaid

MO HealthNet is the Medicaid coverage for Missouri’s low income and vulnerable citizens. There are multiple programs which provide access to health care. This pdf document covers what they are and how to get coverage.

How To Apply for Disability Benefits

Applying for disability benefits is an important decision that can provide financial support when you’re unable to work due to a lasting medical condition. How one does this is described in this pdf document.

How to Get SNAP Benefits

SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is the federal program that provides funds to help low- and no-income families purchase food at local grocery stores. SNAP was formally know as food stamps. Eligibility and applying for SNAP is covered in this pdf.

How to Get Free Phones and Data

People whose income is 135% or less of the federal poverty guidelines might qualify for reduced-cost cell phones, phone service, and a good amount of data with the help of Lifeline and/or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The pdf document linked here describes the eligibility criteria and how to apply for this program.

Library Resources

Libraries are for more than just reading a book. Did you know that some provide notary services, can provide help with your GED or homework assignments, and much more. Here’s how to get your library card.

How to Apply for Section 8 Housing

Section 8 housing in Missouri is a voucher program. It helps families and individuals with lower incomes in Missouri pay for their rent. Eligibility and how to apply for Section 8 Housing is described in this pdf.

How to Start Child Support

When there’s no legal documentation confirming parenthood, challenges can arise. For example, individuals may struggle to visit their children while incarcerated. Establishing legal parentage can be a complex process. Here’s how to get started in this process.

How to Modify Child Support

People who pay child support can request modifications, changing the amount they are required to pay, in two ways – either through the courts, or through the Department of Social Services (DSS). This pdf document describes how to modify Child Support.

How to Establish Paternity

Establishing paternity is a very important step in the legal processes involving families and child support. This pdf describes how to establish paternity.