Mandatory Reporting

Texas law requires anyone who thinks a child, or person 65 years or older, or an adult with disabilities“Person with a mental, physical, or intellectual or developmental disability that substantially impairs the person’s ability to provide adequately for the person’s care or protection and who is: (A) 18 years of age or older; or (B) under 18 years of age and who has had the disabilities of minority removed (Texas Human Resources Code §48.002). More is being abused, neglected or exploited must report it to DFPS (Texas Family Code §261.101). This duty may not be delegated to someone else.

A person who reports abuse in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability. DFPS keeps the name of the person making the report confidential. Anyone who does not report suspected abuse can be held liable for a misdemeanor or felony (Texas Family Code §261.106).

Individuals may use the iWatchTexas community reporting system to report suspicious activities.

DFPS has a central place to report:

1. Child abuse and neglect.
2. Abuse, neglect, self-neglect and exploitation of the elderly or adults with disabilities living at home.
3. Abuse of children in child-care facilities or treatment centers.
4. Abuse of adults and children who live in state facilities or are being helped by programs for people with mental illness or intellectual disabilities (Texas Human Resources Code, §48.002). These reports are investigated by HHSC Provider Investigations, not DFPS.

Report Abuse:

1. By Phone: 1-800-252-5400
2. Online: Texas Abuse Hotline

Call the DFPS Abuse Hotline toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, nationwide, or report with their secure website and get a response within 24 hours.

For more information see the DFPS flyer “Reporting Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation.”