If You Got a Relative Search Letter

I've Received a Letter, What Do I Do Next?

  • Respond to the letter by completing the online form in your preferred language: English, Español (Spanish), or русский (Russian).
  • For questions about a Relative Search Inquiry letter or to verify the authenticity of a relative search letter you received from DCYF, reach out to a Relative Search staff member on the list on the right side of this page.
  • Call or email the Relative Search Specialist listed in your letter to learn about ways you can support and be involved
  • Relative search will continue through the life of a case until reunification or permanency is found

Why Search for Relatives?

The requirement for conducting a Relative Search is supported by Public Law 110-351, Fostering Connections to Success. This federal law requires that child welfare agencies reach out to all adult relatives when a child is removed from their parent's custody. 

When a child or youth is removed from their home and enters state care either through a Voluntary Placement Agreement or court intervention, DCYF is required to notify all adult relatives within 30 days. The statewide Relative Search Unit is tasked with identifying potential relative support for all children and youth whom DCYF has legal custody regardless of whether the child is placed in relative, suitable other, or foster care placement.

Who's Considered a Relative in Washington State?

Under the Federal law, each state can define what a relative means/is.  As explained in RCW 74.15.020, Washington state requires that DCYF notify all adult relatives that are able to be identified, within three degrees of relationship. This means that the persons related to a child, include but are not limited to:

  • Siblings (including adoptive and stepfamily members)
  • Aunts and uncles
  • Cousins
  • Grandparents
  • Great aunts and uncles
  • great and great-great grandparents

The search for relatives begins with a Relative Search Specialist conducting a thorough search of potential relatives. Every identified adult relative, using the search tools available, is mailed a Relative Inquiry letter, and asked to complete a short questionnaire confirming their relationship to the child and to express the level of support they are interested in providing.

How Can a Relative Support a Child or Youth Placed in State Care?

Relatives are often the best resource for children. This is confirmed by research and prioritized in DCYF policy and RCWs. Under federal and state law, relatives have the option to participate in the planning, placement, and well-being of the child. Examples of other involvement include: 

  • Providing placement now or in the future
  • Transporting to visits, court hearings or other required services
  • Providing a short break for foster parents/relatives caring for the child
  • Completing family history to identify any special behavioral, health, or educational needs for the child
  • Helping with family time (supervised visits between the parents and child)
  • Celebrating milestones and holidays
  • Identifying other relatives