What You Need Before You Begin
Before filling out the CFS 597A Form, gather the following for each adult in your household: full legal name, current and previous addresses, Social Security number or ITIN, date of birth, and contact phone number. You will also need details about any existing or prior child care licenses, any prior license applications, child welfare history, and criminal convictions. A background check consent form may be required separately as part of the DCFS application process.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the CFS 597A Form Online
Step 1: Click the "Get Form" button at the top of this page to open the CFS 597A Form in our online PDF editor.
Step 2: Complete the personal information fields for Applicant A and Applicant B. Fill in the licensing history, child welfare history, criminal history, and language ability sections. Do not enter data in spaces marked "agency use only." Double-check all identification numbers and addresses before proceeding.
Step 3: Review the declaration statement, then sign and date the form. Print two copies. Keep one for your records and submit the original to your DCFS licensing representative along with any other required documents.
Related Illinois DCFS Forms
Other forms you may need during the Illinois foster family licensing process include the DCFS CW CPI 2 Form for child protective services and the Family Child Care Application. If a child in your care needs a health examination, the Illinois Child Health Examination Form is also available on FormsPal.
