Forms and Resources
Everything you need for the foster parent application process
Below you will find the general requirements and different forms required to become a foster parent. We’ve also included a checklist so you can stay organized in the process.
Remember, you are not alone. If you have any questions or need assistance completing your application, contact us today.
General Requirements
To become a foster care parent you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- At least one person in your home must be able to read, write and speak English, or be able to communicate effectively with both the child and the agency that placed the child in your home.
- You may be single or married.
- Your household must have enough income to meet the basic needs of those already living in the home and to make timely payment of shelter costs.*
- You do not have to own a home but must have enough space available for the children and their belongings.
- You must have a separate bed for each child and separate bedrooms for children if there are boys and girls over the age of 5.
- You must be free of any physical, emotional or mental conditions that could endanger the child or seriously impair your ability to care for the child.
- A licensed medical professional must complete and sign a medical statement for you and each member of your household stating that you are healthy enough to care for additional children.
- Everyone 18 and over living in the home must have a criminal background check completed, as well as child abuse and neglect checks. If you have concerns about something in your past that you think may disqualify you from being a foster parent, please contact us.
- Your home must be free of hazardous conditions and pass a fire inspection and safety audit.
- You must complete all pre-placement and continuing training.
You must be able to provide contact information for individuals who can provide references for you.
*Foster families receive financial reimbursement to help cover the costs of the children placed in their homes. Medical care for children in foster care is covered through Medicaid. Foster parents are not expected to pay for children’s medical expenses.
Application Checklist
Stay organized and feel prepared with this helpful checklist.
- Completed application
- Driver’s License or State ID
- Copies of your social security card
- Proof of residency
- Proof of vehicle insurance
- Proof of CPR/First Aid certification
- Medical statements for all residents in the home
- Child characteristic checklist
- BCI/FBI Background Check – Code 2151.86, reimbursable upon licensure
- Three references (one related, two non-relatives)
- References from any adult children (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate and/or divorce records (if applicable)
- Financial statement
- Copies of current utility bills
- Tax return from the past year
- Proof of income for two months prior to verification
- Fire inspection
- Safety audit
- Pet vaccination records
- Signed offense form
- If minors reside in the home, signed juvenile offense form
- Alternate caregiver form
- Crib acknowledgement form
- Medication acknowledgement form
- Well water acknowledgement form
- Evacuation form for each floor of your home
Important Forms
Click to download the necessary forms below.
