The Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) maintains records of founded findings of child abuse and neglect. This information is limited to substantiated findings, does not include investigations determined as inconclusive or unfounded, and requires the subject individual’s authorization to release this information.
CAN history check requests can now be submitted online through the CAN History Check Portal (Background Check Portal). Results will be sent to the requesting individual or entity by email but can also be accessed by logging directly into the portal.
- Review the available application options below to determine which type of application to submit.
- Once you have determined the type of application to use, submit your request online directly through the CAN History Check Portal.
For assistance with creating an account or making a request, refer to the CAN History Check Portal training guides. For additional questions, please email the CAN Unit at CANhistorychecks@dcyf.wa.gov or call us at 1-800-998-3898, option 1.
For public child welfare agencies seeking CAN information as part of an open CPS or child welfare investigation on the parent(s) or caregiver(s) who previously resided in Washington State. Results of the search only include whether there are founded or no founded allegations of abuse and neglect as to the subject(s) listed.
For requestors seeking CAN information for current Washington State residents. This includes Washington State residents who are attending school outside the state of Washington. Purposes include foster home licensing, relative placement, adoption, employment, education programs, volunteers or interns in settings requiring child abuse and neglect history checks.
This request requires the subject’s signature. The signature form must be completed and uploaded on Step 3 of the application process. Please print and complete the signature form prior to starting an in-state request.
For requestors seeking CAN information for persons who formerly resided in Washington State. Purposes include foster home licensing, relative placement, adoption, employment, education programs, volunteers or interns in settings requiring child abuse and neglect history checks.
This request requires the subject’s signature. The signature form must be completed and uploaded on Step 3 of the application process. Please print and complete the signature form prior to starting a Non-CPS investigation request.
A $20.00 fee is required for each individual’s CAN request. When submitting multiple requests, one check/money order may be made out for the total cost. Online payment options are not available at this time.