How to file a foster care complaint

What to do, step by step

1. 1. Tell someone

   Start with your caseworker. If the concern is about that person or nothing changes, ask for their supervisor.

2. 2. Write down what happened

   Save dates, names, messages and what you asked for. Keep copies somewhere safe if you can.

3. 3. Escalate the concern

   If it is not resolved locally, contact your state foster care program manager, ombudsman or child advocate.

4. 4. Ask what happens next

   Ask for a complaint number, expected response time and appeal or review steps. Keep the written response.

Verified state complaint offices

These offices have been checked against official state sources. If your state is not listed, use the state agency button below and ask for the foster care complaint, grievance, ombudsman or child advocate office.

• California

  Office of the Foster Care Ombudsperson

  1-877-846-1602Open official office page

• Colorado

  Colorado Child Protection Ombudsman

  720-625-8640Open official office page

• Florida

  Florida Children's Ombudsman (DCF)

  850-717-4199Open official office page

• Idaho

  Idaho Health and Social Services Ombudsman

  Open official office page

• Montana

  Office of the Child and Family Ombudsman

  1-844-252-4453Open official office page

• New Jersey

  NJ DCF Office of Advocacy

  1-877-543-7864Open official office page

• Oklahoma

  OKDHS Office of Client Advocacy

  1-800-522-8014Open official office page

• Rhode Island

  Rhode Island Office of the Child Advocate

  401-462-4300Open official office page

• Tennessee

  TCCY Ombudsman for Children and Families

  Open official office page

• Washington

  Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds

  1-800-571-7321Open official office page