The Appleseed Foundation has released an online version of its Deportation Preparation Manual for Immigrant Families, a free tool designed to help families plan for the legal, financial, and emotional challenges that can come with deportation.
By answering a short series of questions, families can generate a personalized plan addressing needs such as child guardianship, business protection, and financial security. The manual can be accessed without creating an account, and no personal data is tracked.
Originally developed in 2010 by Annette LoVoi with support from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the updated 2025 edition includes new policies, best practices, and guidance from legal and policy experts. More than 1,500 pro bono hours were contributed by law firms nationwide.
“This new online format is about meeting families where they are,” said Annette LoVoi, senior advisor at Appleseed. “By making the manual easier to use, customizable, and private, we’re helping immigrant families protect what matters most.”
The manual covers topics such as child custody, banking, taxes, business ownership, and emotional health, and serves as a practical resource for families, advocates, and legal professionals.
The Deportation Preparation Manual is available for free at deportationpreparation.org.
