Being a kinship caregiver is hard work. We are here to help you understand your responsibilities and help you fulfill them. These pages outline the legal requirements and rights of licensed kinship caregivers. Unlicensed kinship caregivers should also follow these guidelines.
We updated these rules on June 30, 2025.
Child Health and Safety
Health and medicineFood and clothingHome conditionsWeaponsDiscipline and restraintDrugs and alcoholSupervision and monitoringTransportation
Child Well-Being
Prudent parentingLGBTQ+Race, ethnicity, religion, and cultureIndian children or youthEducationVisitation and family timeChild's belongings
Working with DCYF
Licensing Process
Licensing processLicense typesLicense requirementsCPAs and tribal CPAsLicense renewalsLicense denials, suspensions, and revocationsLicense special circumstancesLicensing process
Caregiver Rights
Payments and financial supportTraining and servicesTaking breaks from caregivingTemporarily caring for the child or youth if you are not the kinship caregiverIf you disagree with our licensing decisions
Note
You must also follow all state and federal non-discrimination laws while you care for a kinship child or youth. This means you must support children and youth in care with dignity and respect regardless of their actual or perceived race, ethnicity, religion, culture, or sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.
