How to Report Sexual Abuse
A plain-language guide to reporting abuse, getting help, and protecting your options — at your own pace.
If you are in danger now
Get to safety first
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. If you need to talk to someone right now, free and confidential support is available 24/7:
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 (and online chat at rainn.org)
- Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988
Time limits do apply, and they vary by state. Many states have recently expanded or reopened the window to file. A free, confidential call simply tells you where you stand — no pressure, no obligation.
Step by step
How to report abuse
There is no single right way, and you do not have to do everything at once. These are options, not requirements:
- Make sure you are safe and, if you can, get medical care. A medical exam can also preserve evidence if you choose to report.
- Report to law enforcement by calling 911 or your local police non-emergency line, if and when you feel ready.
- Report to the right agency — for a child, contact local Child Protective Services; for abuse at an institution, you can also report to that organization and to any relevant licensing board.
- Write down what you remember — dates, places, names, and any messages — while it is fresh. You control who sees it.
- Talk to an attorney about your civil options. This is separate from any criminal case, and you do not need a police report to pursue it.
You do not have to have reported to anyone to speak with us. Reaching out is confidential and carries no obligation.
Good to know
You may have more options than you think
A criminal case and a civil case are different. A civil claim lets you seek accountability and compensation — including from an institution whose negligence enabled the abuse — even if no one was ever arrested or charged. Time limits apply and vary by state, and many states have recently expanded them, so it is worth asking early.
Free & confidential
Talk through your options — free & confidential
We will listen and help you understand the next step that is right for you.
- 100% confidential — your privacy is protected
- No fee unless we win your case
- You stay in control of every step
Prefer to talk now? (877) 421-9608
Start your free case review
It only takes a minute. Share what you’re comfortable with.
You don’t have to carry this alone.
Take the first step on your terms. A free, confidential conversation could be the start of getting the justice and support you deserve.