If you suspect child abuse or neglect in Texas, it is crucial to report it to the Texas Department Of Family And Protective Services (DFPS). DFPS is the state agency responsible for investigating reports of abuse and neglect to protect children and families. Reporting abuse is a vital step in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals.
Reporting Methods to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
You can easily report abuse to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services through two primary methods:
By Phone: 24/7 Texas Abuse Hotline
For immediate assistance, you can call the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400. This toll-free hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from anywhere in the nation. Trained professionals are available to take your report and answer any questions you may have about the reporting process to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
Online: Texas Abuse Hotline Website
Alternatively, you can file a report online through the Texas Abuse Hotline website: Texas Abuse Hotline. This secure website allows you to submit detailed information regarding suspected abuse or neglect. While online reports are typically responded to within 24 hours, it’s important to note that the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services cannot accept reports of suspected abuse or neglect via email, including any attachments like photos or videos. Use the designated phone or online methods to ensure your report is properly received and processed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
Important Updates Regarding Reporting to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
It is important to be aware of recent policy changes regarding reporting abuse and neglect to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services:
Anonymous Reports of Child Abuse and Neglect: New Requirements
As of September 1, 2023, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services no longer accepts anonymous reports of abuse and neglect involving children and their families. To comply with new reporting requirements, individuals, whether professional or non-professional reporters, must provide both their first and last name and a home or business phone number. Providing only a business, agency, or organizational name is insufficient. This legal change mandates the provision of a full name and phone number for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to accept a report concerning child abuse or neglect. If you wish to remain anonymous when reporting child abuse or neglect, you may contact local or state law enforcement agencies instead. It is crucial to remember that reporters’ names are legally confidential when reporting to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, ensuring your privacy and encouraging individuals to come forward with crucial information.
Reports Involving Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF/IID) Transition to HHS
Effective March 1, 2024, the process for reporting abuse, neglect, and exploitation within Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Condition (ICF/IID), including State Supported Living Centers (SSLCs), has changed. These reports are no longer handled by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services but have transitioned to the Health and Human Services (HHS) Complaint and Incident Intake (CII). Therefore, if your report concerns an ICF/IID facility, you should contact HHS Complaint and Incident Intake (CII) directly through the following channels:
- Online: Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP)
- By phone: 1-800-458-9858
By understanding these updated procedures, you can ensure your report reaches the correct agency, whether it’s the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services for general child abuse and neglect cases, or HHS for incidents within ICF/IID facilities. Reporting suspected abuse is a civic responsibility that helps protect vulnerable individuals in Texas.
