Skip to main content
25 CFR § 20.506Chapter I

What information is required in the foster care case file?

Primary source

Verbatim text below is from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the current version with the eCFR before relying on it for any legal matter.

Full Text

At a minimum the following information is required:

(a) Tribal enrollment verification in accordance with § 20.100;

(b) A written case plan (established within 30 days of placement), which would include a permanency plan detailing the need for and expected length of placement;

(c) Information on each child's health status and school records, including medications and immunization records;

(d) Parental consent(s) for emergency medical care, school, and transportation;

(e) A signed plan for payment, including financial responsibility of parents and use of other appropriate resources;

(f) A copy of the certification/license of the foster home;

(g) A current photo of each child;

(h) A copy of the social security card, birth certificate, Medicaid card and current court order;

(i) For a placement beyond 30 days, copy of the action taken or authorized by a court of competent jurisdiction that documents the need for protection of the child;

(j) For an involuntary placement, a social services assessment completed by a social services worker within 30 days of placement;

(k) Documentation of a minimum of one visit to the placement setting per month by the social services worker with each child; and

(l) A list of all prior placements, including the names of the foster parents and dates of placements.

eCFR data current as of: November 5, 2026

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.