- By phone: 1-800-252-5400
- Online: Texas Abuse Hotline
The Family & Protective Services Department in Texas provides a dedicated Abuse Hotline that is available toll-free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, throughout the nation, for reporting suspected abuse or neglect. Alternatively, reports can be submitted through their secure website, the Texas Abuse Hotline, where you can expect a response within 24 hours of submission.
Please note that the Family & Protective Services Department cannot accept reports of suspected abuse or neglect via email. This includes any attachments or media files such as photos, videos, or audio clips intended as evidence.
Important Changes Regarding Anonymous Reports of Child Abuse and Neglect
As of September 1, 2023, the Family & Protective Services Department has updated its policy regarding anonymous reporting. They are no longer able to accept anonymous reports of abuse and neglect cases involving children and their families. This means that all professional and non-professional reporters are now required to provide both their first and last name, as well as a home or business phone number, for the report to be officially accepted.
This new requirement mandates that a full personal name and phone number must be provided for any report to be processed by the Family & Protective Services Department. Providing only a business, agency, or organizational name does not fulfill these updated legal reporting criteria. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous while reporting child abuse and neglect may still do so by contacting local and state law enforcement agencies directly. It’s important to remember that reporter’s names are legally protected and kept confidential.
Updates for Reports Involving Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Condition (ICF/IID)
Effective March 1, 2024, there is a change in how reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation are handled for clients within Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID), including State Supported Living Centers (SSLCs). Responsibility for these reports has transitioned from the Family & Protective Services Department to the Health and Human Services (HHS) Complaint and Incident Intake (CII) division. Therefore, the Family & Protective Services Department will no longer be conducting investigations into these specific concerns.
To report incidents within ICF/IID facilities, please use the contact information for HHS Complaint and Incident Intake (CII):
- Online: Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP)
- By phone: 1-800-458-9858
