Hi there, thanks for reaching out! It sounds like you are hoping to leave home as soon as you can and have a question about leaving immediately at age 18. We are not legal experts, but in most states, 18 is the legal age of adulthood. If you live in a state where 18 is the legal adult age, you can leave at that age without being considered a runaway if your parents no longer have custody over you (such as for medical reasons). If you are not sure of your state's legal age, you can find it at https://sexetc.org/action-center/sex-in-the-states/ .
Some people consider leaving a note or letting their parents know they are leaving so their parents are not worried. While you cannot be considered a runaway once you are an adult, if they are concerned for your safety, they could file you as a missing person. We do offer conference calling if you wanted some support in starting that conversation. Call us anytime at 1-800-786-2929.
We are here 24/7 by chat and phone so reach out if you have any more questions or want to talk more about your options (like where to go and live, getting a job, etc).
- Welcome to the National Runaway Safeline Forum. Here you can post your questions, thoughts, and concerns about what it's like to be a teenager or a parent. If there's something you've been wondering about, please ask. Chances are good that a lot of other people have been wondering the same thing. PLEASE NOTE: We are receiving more crisis contacts than usual right now. Our replies to forum posts may be delayed but we will respond to your questions as soon as we are able. Please check back frequently for updates!
Leave a comment: