The CFS 597A Form is the official Illinois DCFS application for individuals and couples seeking an initial foster family home license. Issued by the Department of Children and Family Services, this two-page form must be completed in duplicate. Applicants submit the original to their licensing worker and keep the second copy for their records. Do not write in any spaces marked "agency use only."
Each applicant must provide their full legal name, current and prior addresses, Social Security number or ITIN, phone number, and date of birth. The form covers Applicant A and Applicant B separately, so both adults in the household must complete their respective sections.
A licensing history section asks whether either applicant currently holds a child care license in Illinois or any other state. Applicants must also disclose any prior applications for a child care license and whether any previous license was denied, revoked, or surrendered. Truthful answers are mandatory because DCFS verifies this information independently. If you are renewing an existing license rather than applying for the first time, you may need the DCFS 561 B Form instead.
The form addresses criminal history for both applicants. Applicants must disclose any convictions or current charges for felonies or misdemeanors. Illinois law states that operating a child care facility without a license is a Class A misdemeanor. DCFS conducts background screenings on all adults in the household, not only the primary applicants.
Language ability is also covered. If either applicant speaks a language other than English, the form asks them to indicate whether they are fluent or conversational in that language. This helps DCFS place children with families who can communicate with them effectively.
The form closes with a signed declaration. By signing, applicants affirm that all information provided is accurate and that they agree to comply with the DCFS foster care licensing standards. Any false or misleading information may result in denial or revocation of the foster family home license.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Form Name | Cfs 597A Form |
| Form Length | 2 pages |
| Fillable? | No |
| Fillable fields | 0 |
| Avg. time to fill out | 30 sec |
| Other names | illinois 597a form, dcfs form 597 c licensing monitoring record, cfs 597 home, cfs 597 a |