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1. I have obtained a state-issued identification card.

Why do I need it?

State issued identification cards are used as a primary source of identify by those who do not have other means to do so. Having a form of identification that you can simply carry in a wallet or pocketbook is essential in today's world.

How do I get it?

You are required to have: Social Security Card; Birth Certificate

Proof of school enrollment if under the age of 18 (this can be obtained from the school you attend or your county board of education).
Two documents that prove you’re a resident of the state of WV. Some examples of this type of documentation are: a voter’s registration card, insurance card, vehicle registration.
If you are a minor your parents or foster parents can show proof of residency along with documentation proving that you are in their care. (Birth certificate, FC-40, etc...)
If you are placed in a residential treatment facility or transitional living program, the program can send a letter confirming that you reside at their facility. This must be on agency letterhead, must include your full name, the address of the facility and be signed and dated.
Additional information about acceptable forms of ID can be found here.
You will need to go to your local DMV location, which can be located here.
Once the clerk has verified all of your information, your application will be processed, you will pay a minimal fee and your photo will be taken.

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2. I have obtained a Social Security card.

Why do I need it?

A social security card is an important document to identify individuals nationally. The number is primarily used for taxation purposes related to salaries and wages – one must have a SSN (or at a minimum a federal tax id number) to be legally employed in the United States.

How do I get it?

Go to this website:

http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.html

Click the link for the SS-5 form.
Print this form.
Complete this form according to the directions on the document and place in the mail.
You can also go to your local social security office and requests a new card in person. You can find your local office here.

Notes:

Remember that to help prevent identity theft; do not carry your social security card with you. Keep it locked in a safe place at all times.

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3. I have obtained a certified copy of my birth certificate.

Why do I need it?

A birth certificate for someone born in the US is proof of their citizenship, age, gender, and his or her parents’ names. It is generally necessary to have one before enrolling in school, obtaining a driver’s license or other state issued identification or a US Passport

How do I get it?

Before ordering your birth certificate, know the following information:

The state or province (and in most areas of the US, the city and/or county) in which your birth took place.
Your name as it would appear on the birth certificate. If adopted, please use adoptive information.
The month, day and year of your birth (and in some cases, the name of the hospital).
The legal name of your parents identified on the birth certificate (including the mother's maiden name before marriage).
Your billing and shipping addresses (street address only - courier deliveries will not be shipped to PO boxes, APO or FPO military addresses).
Your method of payment. Usually a credit card is preferred unless it is requested by mail in which case a check or money order are preferred.
Keep in mind that many states charge an excess fee when ordering online and paying with a credit card. You may save several dollars by completing an order form and mailing your application with a check or money order.

Other References:

There are many websites that you can order your birth certificate through. The following are the addresses for them:

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4. I have obtained a driver’s license (if applicable).

Why do I need it?

You are required to have a driver’s license to operate a vehicle.

How do I get it?

You are required to have: Social Security Card; Birth Certificate

See How to Obtain a State Issued Photo ID ( Step #1 ).
You will need to go to your local DMV location, which can be located here
Once there, you will need to take all your documentation to the check in counter and inform them that you are there to take your written drivers exam. The clerk will review all of your information and have you complete an application. You can also download the application here
Once the clerk has verified all of your information, your application will be processed, you will pay a minimal fee and your photo will be taken.

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5. I have registered with Selective Service (if a male 18 or older).

Why do I need it?

All males in the United States must register with selective service when they reach the age of 18. All males between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to be registered. Some groups are excluded from this requirement.

How do I get it?

Registering for Selective Service is very easy and can be complete several ways.

The easiest way to register is online here. You must have a valid social security number in order to complete and online registration.
You can also register at any post office. Forms are available at the post office in public areas, if you can’t find what you need; the postal clerk can assist you. Once you locate the form, you simply fill it out, sign it and mail it to the pre filled address on the form. You will be required to provide a stamp.
Another easy way to register is when you are completing your Federal Student Financial Aid form. There is a question on the form which asks if you are registered for Selective Service. If you click “no”, the form will ask you if you want to register. All you need to do is select “yes” and you will be automatically registered for selective service.
The final way many young men are registered is through a program at many high schools. You can ask your guidance counselor if your school has a “selective service registrar”. If so, they can assist you in completing your registration.

Other References:

Information about who is excluded from this requirement can be found here:

http://www.sss.gov/PDFs/WhoMustRegisterChart.pdf

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6. I have completed a credit check prior to turning 18.

Why do I need it?

A personal credit check can assist you in making sure than no one has opened any credit accounts in your name.

How do I get it?

Everyone is entitled to one free credit report annually.
To get your free report go to: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp
You will need to know some basic information to verify your identity.
If you cannot answer the verification questions, you will be given the option of mailing a request for a copy of your report along with a copy of your identification to prove your identity.

Other References:

If you suspect that you are a victim of identity theft, you can get more information at:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/

Also, you can contact your local Legal Aid office for assistance.

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7. I have applied for disability benefits prior to age 18 (if applicable).

Why do I need it?

SSI makes monthly payments to people who have low income and few resources and are Age 65 or older; Blind; or Disabled.

How do I get it?

You can register for disability benefits in several ways:

You can complete most of your application by going online to: http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/270
You can also call your local social security office and ask for an appointment with a social security representative.
For a list of items you will need in order to apply for benefits, visit: http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-11000.pdf

Other References:

If you are denied benefits and wish to file an appeal or need assistance with the application process, you can contact your local Legal Aid of WV office. You can find your local office here: http://www.lawv.net/Home/PublicWeb

To locate your local social security office, please visit: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp

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8. I have obtained Proof of Citizenship (if applicable).

Why do I need it?

If you were not born a US citizen but became a US citizen later as some function of federal law, you need proof of US citizenship to apply for jobs, apply for a social security number, a passport and for other uses.

How do I get it?

If you have misplaced or never received Form I-797 Approval Notice, this is the method you will go about to get that documentation.

Go to http://www.immigrationdirect.com/us-citizenship/Certificate-of-Citizenship-Form-N-600.jsp
Once you are at this website, click the blue oval that says “Start Your Application Now”.
Create a new account and continue from there. The sight will give you thorough instructions.

Other References:

This is the method to become naturalized US citizen:

Go to https://www.usimmigrationsupport.org/certificate-naturalization.html.

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9. I have obtained my education records.

Why do I need it?

You will need certain school records such as transcripts or diplomas when you apply to post-secondary educational programs such as college, community college, vocational schools, etc. Certain employers may ask for copies of your diploma or transcript as well.

How do I get it?

Call the County Board of Education in the county you graduated or attended school to get information on how to obtain your school records.

Report cards
Transcript
Enrollment forms
Achievement tests
Progress reports
Field trip forms
Incident reports
Disciplinary reports
Medical records
Emergency notification cards
Diploma
SAT or ACT scores

Or any other officially generated reports, including email.

There are other educational documents that are important and you can ask your school to help you obtain them. For example ask for college applications if you are about to graduate from high school. If you weren’t able to graduate from high school and you are interested in obtaining your GED certificate ask your school for more information about that. (Also see: Other References below)

Other References:

Higher Education Institutes in West Virginia:

West Virginia University: http://apply.wvu.edu/applyNow
Marshall: http://www.marshall.edu/admissions/apply.asp
List of Cosmetology (beautician) schools can be found here
A list of other universities, community colleges, and technical colleges in WV can be obtain obtained here

West Virginia Department of Education http://wvde.state.wv.us/

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10. I have obtained my medical records (including my immunization record).

Why do I need it?

Copies of your medical records help you to stay informed about your healthcare needs; when transferring to different medical professionals, it is helpful to give them a copy; and it is important to have a copy of your immunization records.

How do I get it?

You will need to obtain and fill out an Authorization to Release Protected Health Information form. You can obtain this form from the health care provider who has your records.
Completely fill out this form. Be sure to sign and date this form.
Turn the completed form in via fax, mail, or in person as directed by your health care provider. There may be a fee for copies of the records.
There will usually be a 7 to 15 day wait for you to receive the records.

Other References:

List of Local Health Department Centers: http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/localhealth/Pages/default.aspx

Your Medical Records Rights in WV: http://wvde.state.wv.us/healthyschools/documents/RighttoobtainandamendmedicalrecordsinWV.PDF

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11. I have applied for and received a Medical Card (if applicable).

Why do I need it?

A medical card can help pay for needed medical services.

How do I get it?

You can apply in person at your local Department of Health and Human resources office or you can apply online through WV InRoads at: https://www.wvinroads.org/inroads/PGM/ASP/SC001.asp
You will need to have a proof of citizenship, such as your birth certificate and one proof of identity. More information about acceptable forms on identification can be found here: http://www.wvdhhr.org/bcf/family_assistance/medicaid.asp

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12. I have obtained religious documents and information (if applicable).

Why do I need it?

Some reasons why someone may need religious documents is for denomination-based academic scholarships and as supporting documentation for applications for Delayed Certificates of Birth or US Passports when no birth certificate was ever placed on file.

How do I get it?

The logical place to begin is with the church/synagogue/center where a particular religious event took place, such as: baptism, confirmation, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, etc.

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13. I have obtained death certificate(s) (if parent(s) are deceased).

Why do I need it?

A death certificate is used to prove that a person died, when they died, where they died and how they died. It may be necessary if one or both parents are deceased to apply for various type of public assistance or entitlement.

How do I get it?

Gather the following information:
1. Name of Deceased
2. Sex of Deceased
3. Date of Death
4. Location of Death
5. Your relation to the Deceased
6. Your address and driver’s license number
Put all this information in a letter and mail it to:

Vital Registration Office
Room 165
350 Capitol Street
Charleston, WV 25301-3701

This cost is approximately $12.00.

Other References:

For more information on obtaining birth, and death certificate visit: http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hsc/vital/birthcert.asp

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14. I have established an individual portfolio.

Why do I need it?

A personal portfolio reflects a lot of important information about you and your family. A good portfolio should include:

Medical History
Financial information
Work Documents
Personal Information

How do I get it?

Create a document that includes the following:

Medical History
- Current medical information
- Identified primary care physician
- Dentist
- Optometrist
- Any other information that could be relevant to potential future medical issues
Financial information
- Account numbers
- CD maturity dates
- W2s
- Taxes, receipts, etc.
Work Documents
- Current resume
- Employment dates
- Emergency contacts, etc.
Personal Information
- Passwords
- Wills
- Living will
- Medical power of attorney
- Social worker name, etc.

Other References:

For more information on personal portfolio, and portfolio templates, visit:

https://www.fosterclub.com/_transition/article/transition-toolkit

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15. I have developed a resume.

Why do I need it?

A resume is a very useful document to advertise and sell yourself to new potential employers. The resume provides the employer with information about your experience and about what you can do for them. It is also very helpful to list the contact information of your past employers that are willing to put in a good word for you.

How do I get it?

First, think about what kind of jobs you are looking for. Try to think about what kind of attributes those jobs require. Brainstorming will help you create a strong resume.
Prepare a list of all the jobs that you have held in the past along with your supervisors contact information and start and end date for every position.
Write a list of all your strengths and skills that would be valuable to the positions you are applying for.
Now you need to compile that information in a resume format. The link below provides a sample of resume format.

Other References:

Resume Samples (http://www.alec.co.uk/resume-examples/high-school-resume-samples.htm)

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16. I have a Food Handlers Card.

Why do I need it?

Most people think that only fast food restaurant workers and cooks are required to have a food handler’s permit. However, many counties in WV require you to have a food handlers permit if you are working in a job that requires you to handle any type of food. That includes working in a nursing home, convenience store, daycare, etc.

How do I get it?

Contact your local health department to schedule to take the class. You can find a statewide listing of county health departments by visiting the link listed below.
Attend the class. Be prepared to receive a lot of information about keeping food at correct temperatures, how to properly thaw out food, how to maintain a clean kitchen, etc. Make sure to pay close attention to the information, there is a test at the end of the course that you must pass!
Once you have your card after passing the test, give a copy to your employer and put your original in a safe place, such as your safe deposit box.
Your permit is valid for three years so be aware of the expiration date and make sure that you schedule yourself for the class again prior to your card expiring!

Other References:

Statewide listing of county health departments:

http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/localhealth/Pages/default.aspx

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17. I have a library card.

Why do I need it?

One of the most important and helpful devices that the community has to offer is the library card. The library card is an important tool which can connect you to your community. With a library card you can access the internet, check out the newest novels, compact disks, and DVDs for no charge.

How do I get it?

You will need two forms of identification. One must be a picture ID, which could be a school ID, a drivers license or a state issued ID card. The second form of ID must have your current address. This could be a voters registration card, a utility bill that is no more than 30 days old (includes cell phone bills) something from school, etc.
You will take your identification and find the circulation desk at your library. You will need to inform the librarian that you want to sign up for a library card. She will give you a simple form that you must complete that will ask for your personal information such as name, address, etc. Remember, the address you list on the form must match the address on your identification.
After completing the form, the librarian will make your card. You must present this card anytime you want to use the internet at the library, check out books, attend a class, etc. Always keep your card with you and in a safe place so that no one will check books out under your name.
Always remember to turn the materials you check out on time so that you don’t accumulate late fees. If you have any fees, they must be paid in a timely manner or your library privileges will be suspended.

Other References:

West Virginia Public Libraries: http://www.publiclibraries.com/westvirginia.htm

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18. I have a realistic Independent Living Plan.

Why do I need it?

It’s important to have a plan so you know what goals you are working toward. You can present your progress to MDT members to highlight your accomplishments.

How do I get it?

Set goals
Identify what you need/activities needed to achieve your goals
Implement your plan
Review your plan with MDT members

Some areas you might include in your Independent Living Plan include the following:

Maintaining a clean and safe living environment
Developing career goals
Seeking and maintaining employment
Creating and following a budget
Maintaining a checking and savings account
Communication Skills
Utilizing community resources for health care and transportation needs
Planning meals using economical decisions and healthful eating guides

Other References:

http://www.mtstcil.org/skills/index.html

http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/transitionadult/

https://www.fosterclub.com/_transition/article/transition-toolkit

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19. I have completed the Casey Life Skills Assessment (CLSA) within the past year.

Why do I need it?

The Casey Life Skills Assessment is used to determine what areas you still need assistance with in order to live successfully on your own. This tool is helpful to see your strengths and areas for improvement.

How do I get it?

You can complete the Casey Life Skills Assessment at http://lifeskills.casey.org/.

Your social worker, case manager or other mentor will invite you to take the Casey Life Skills assessment online. It only takes about 30 minutes to complete and you'll get the results online really fast. Then you can send your assessment results to your social worker or other caring adults. They will sit down with you to help you figure out where you excel and what steps you want to take next.

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20. I have completed an Individual Learning Plan within the last year.

Why do I need it?

An Individual Learning Plan is developed to meet your specify learning needs. Individual learning plans are developed using your responses on the Casey Life Skills Assessment. After your individual needs are assessed we work with you to assist you in developing a plan to address things you feel you need to work on. The nationally recognized Resources To Inspire in addition to State and Local resources are used to help you successfully reach independence.

How do I get it?

http://lifeskills.casey.org/.

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21. I have met with a MODIFY Specialist.

How do I get it?

Modify Facts Sheet: http://modify.cedwvu.org/modify-info.php#modify-overview

Apply within six months of high school graduation or obtaining a high school equivalency
Apply up to the age of 20

To make a referral, call 1-866-720-3605 or visit http://www.modify.cedwvu.org.

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22. I am participating in and receiving ongoing life skills instruction.

Why do I need it?

Life skills are the skills you need to make the most out of your life and accomplish goals. Life skills make your life easier and serve as tools to manage day to day challenges and tasks. Any skill that is useful in your life can be considered a life skill. There are some skills that are essential such as study skills, negotiation skills, employment skills, stress management, time management, budgeting, cooking/meal planning, etc.

How do I get it?

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23. I have completed a career interest inventory.

Why do I need it?

Career interest inventories are a tool which you rate activities you enjoy, your personal qualities, and school subjects you like. The tool assesses your interests to see which career options are a match for your interests.

How do I get it?

You can ask your school counselor, your social worker, case manager or other mentor for help. You can also search for career interest inventories online. Most online inventories also will provide other useful information such as highest paying jobs and fastest growing jobs. Here is just one of several available options: http://www.whatcareerisrightforme.com/career-aptitude-test.php

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24. I can demonstrate basic home repairs and basic safety.

How do I get it?

overflowing commode
leaky faucet
change light bulb
vacuum canister
filter replacement
fuse box
smoke detector
refrigerator contents
etc...

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25. I can demonstrate understanding of basic home and fire safety.

Why do I need it?

Need info.

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26. I can demonstrate kitchen safety, menu planning, and budgeting.

Why do I need it?

Need info.

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27. I understand tax filing requirements and preparation.

Why do I need it?

All US citizens are responsible for determining how much they owe in federal and state income taxes. You don’t always end up owing taxes, a lot of times you happen to overpay your taxes and you get a tax return when you file your tax forms.

How do I get it?

Determine what forms you need.
For State Taxes go to this website: http://www.taxadmin.org/fta/link/forms.html
1. Choose West Virginia
2. Choose the year
3. Choose the appropriate form
4. Download and print forms
For Federal Taxes, go to this website: http://www.irs.gov/app/picklist/list/formsInstructions.html
1. Choose the appropriate form
2. Download and print forms
If you do not have access to a printer, the post office will have these forms.

Other References:

If you are unsure as to what form you need to file, you can call the IRS to get free tax help at: 1-800-829-1040

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28. I have prepared a 3 course meal on my own with invited guest(s).

Why do I need it?

Everyone likes to have friends/family over from time to time and it is important to be able to make a meal for our guest.

How do I get it?

A three course meal doesn’t have to be extremely fancy. A simple example might be a salad, spaghetti with garlic bread, and a cheese cake for desert (there are easy no bake cheese cakes). Your options are endless! It is ideal to have a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and grains. Also keep in mind about portion sizes. Below are some helpful charts about portion sizes, how much food to make, and how long to store products.

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29. I have explored, participated and maintained at least 1 hobby.

Why do I need it?

Need info.

How do I get it?

http://www.search-institute.org/research/developmental-assets

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30. I have completed and enrolled for drivers education.

Why do I need it?

Need info.

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31. I can navigate public transportation.

Why do I need it?

Many larger cities offer public transportation either through a subway system or a public bus system. Using public transportation is a quick, easy and inexpensive way to travel in and around your city.

How do I get it?

To become familiar with your public transit, stop by the station and obtain copies of the different routes you can take. Typically these brochures can be found in the station at the information center. Ask the information clerk for information on fares and hours/days of operation.
Read through each route to see where it goes and where it stops. Write on the brochure places you typically go on each route.
Ride the routes you will use the most round trip to become familiar with them.( If traveling on a bus, let the driver know because it may cost extra to ride the entire route)
You can ask the information clerk for help! If no one is available, a bus driver can always give you information on which bus you need to take to a specific location.
Make note of departure times at each location so you can make sure you are at the bus stop on time.
Always remember that if you take the wrong bus, you will always end up back at the bus station, you will not be lost on the bus!

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32. I know how to purchase and utilize taxi, air and train transportation independently.

How to use taxis

Why do I need it?

Taxis can be useful to get place to place when you don’t have time to wait for the bus or if you want to avoid a large crowd of people. Taxis are more expensive than riding the bus however, and you should tip your driver.

How do I get it?

Express Cab (Barboursville, WV)
(304) 736-0717

Yellow Cab (Huntington, WV)
(304) 529-7131

It is customary to tip your taxi driver between 10 to 15 percent, depending on the quality of service. If your taxi driver helped you with your baggage, add $1 in tips for every luggage piece with which he assisted you.

http://www.wikihow.com/Tip-a-Cab-Driver
http://www.tristateairport.com/

Adult passengers (18 and over) are required to show a U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID that contains the following: name, date of birth, gender, expiration date and a tamper-resistant feature in order to be allowed to go through the checkpoint and onto their flight. For types of identification, visit http://www.tsa.gov

To learn how to get through security faster visit the TSA webpage on how to pack smart, dress the part, what to have ready, and other security tips get through line faster.

How to use trains

Why do I need it?

A train is a mode of transportation for traveling long distances.

How do I get it?

To use a train you will first need to locate your nearest train station. Amtrak is the largest national passenger train company in the United States, you can find a list of stations here: http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer/Page/1237405732508/1237405732508
You can purchase your ticket either online or in person at the train station. To purchase it online you will need a credit card or a VISA or Master Card debit card.
Make sure you purchase the appropriate type of ticket, one-way or round trip and that you give the ticket agent the correct information about your destination including the state where the city you are going to is located.
Familiarize yourself with the rules and policies of the train.
When you arrive at your destination, make sure you have all your belongings and pick up any checked baggage before leaving the station.

Other References:

Amtrak: http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Amtrak/HomePage

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33. I am participating in career and educational counseling.

Why do I need it?

Career counseling can assist you in determining which type of career best suits your individual strengths.

Educational counseling can assist you in determining what type of education you need for a specific career or help you determine which type of school best suits your needs.

How do I get it?

You can get assistance with career counseling through your local Workforce WV office. If you do not have an office near you there are several web sites that can offer assistance as well. If you are attending a post-secondary school, your school may have a career services center which can offer assistance.
You can receive assistance with educational counseling several different ways. Some of these include, your high school guidance counselor, your regional Modify contact, the admissions office of the school of your choice or through several web sites.

Other References:

Workforce locations: http://www.wvcommerce.org/business/workforcewv/locations/default.aspx
Online career help: http://www.mynextmove.org/
WV Modify: http://modify.cedwvu.org/
Educational and Career planning: https://secure.cfwv.com/Home/_default.aspx
Educational Planning: http://www.wvgearup.org/

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34. I have established a checking or savings account.

Why do I need it?

A bank is the safest place to keep your money. A checking account allows your employers to directly deposit money into your bank account, while a savings account help you store a portion of your money and save it for later use. A checking account also allows you to do electronic bill pay; obtain an account debit card; and monitor spending quickly and conveniently online.

How do I get it?

Research the banks around you that interest you. You can find a list of multiple banks in West Virginia by visiting the link listed below.
Contact the banks that interest you (you can find the contact information about the different bank through the link below) and ask them for information on their checking and savings accounts.
Most banks offer free checking accounts to students, so be sure to ask about that.
Once you are ready to open an account make sure to ask them what documentation they require, but be prepared to have two forms of ID ready.

Other References:

List of banks in West Virginia - http://uscity.net/west-virginia/banks

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35. I have established a safety deposit box.

Why do I need it?

Safe deposit boxes are a great way to keep your valuables safe. This includes information or "things" such as jewelry. Banks provide these boxes for a small yearly fee and have several different sizes to choose from. Consider what it is that you want to place in the box and then decide which size is best suited for your needs

How do I get it?

To open a safe deposit box, you must first decide which bank to go to. The most logical choice would be the bank where you have your accounts since you already have a working relationship established with that bank and often your fee can be automatically deducted from your account.
Go to your bank’s customer service area and ask to speak to someone about obtaining a safe deposit box. The customer service rep will talk to you about size options and fees.
Once you decide on the specifics of the box, the customer service representative will have you sign a lease agreement for the box. This agreement says that you agree to abide by the rules and that you will not place anything that is considered illegal in the box. Make sure to keep your key in a safe place. If you lose your key, you often have to pay to have the lock drilled and replaced.
Once you have your safe deposit box, place your valuable items or documents in the box and put the key away in a safe place (in other words do not put it on your key ring with the keys you use every day!) Remember to pay your yearly fee and abide by the rules of the lease.

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36. I am employed or have work experience.

Why do I need it?

When you are applying for a new job, your potential employer will inquire about your past employment. The information helps them make an assessment about you as a candidate for the position available.

How do I get it?

It is very easy to prepare your past employment documents.

Make a list of contacts for the places where you have worked.
Contact your former employers and ask the manager to provide you with your start and end dates for every position that you held.
Ask your manager or supervisor if they would be willing to write a recommendation letter for you.
Make sure to ask for your work training certificates as well if you have received any.
Type up all the available information including your past employers' contact information. Now you're ready to provide that document when it is required!

Why do I need it?

Need info

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