iddah the waiting period, step by step
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This week

Only what this week asks, in the order it usually comes. One thing at a time.

Tick a step when it’s done. Ticks stay on this page only: nothing is saved, and they clear when you leave.

  1. If you are not safe

    Your safety comes first. Call 911 in danger, or the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

    Read more: If you are not safe

  2. Where you live now

    Whether you stay in his house depends on the kind of divorce. You never have to stay where you are not safe.

    Read more: Where you live now

  3. Money and housing

    What he owes you during the iddah depends on the kind of divorce. The schools set out maintenance and housing.

    Read more: Money and housing

  4. The date it started

    Note the date and the words of the talāq, spoken or written. How a court decree fits in is explained, never decided, there.

    Read more: The date it started

  5. Civil paperwork and the children

    Health insurance, legal aid and custody follow US law. The practical page links official help.12

    Read more: Civil paperwork and the children

  6. Someone to talk to

    Free, confidential lines and Muslim counselors are listed, checked on the date shown.

    Read more: Someone to talk to

Sources

  1. 1

    HealthCare.gov, "Special Enrollment Period"

    Open: HealthCare.gov, "Special Enrollment Period" ↗checked Oct 18, 2026
    Read the passage: source 1

    A Special Enrollment Period may apply if in the past 60 days you "Got divorced or legally separated and lost health insurance" ("Divorce or legal separation without losing coverage doesn't qualify you"), or if someone on your Marketplace plan died, causing you to lose your current plan. Losing coverage because of a divorce, legal separation or the death of a family member can also qualify.

  2. 2

    Legal Services Corporation, "I Need Legal Help"

    Open: Legal Services Corporation, "I Need Legal Help" ↗checked Oct 18, 2026
    Read the passage: source 2

    LSC funds 129 independent nonprofit legal aid organizations in every state, D.C. and the territories, for civil legal problems of low-income Americans. Search by address for one near you; the page also points to LawHelp.org.

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