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.
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.