All Illinois DCFS questions

What does "indicated" or "unfounded" mean in a DCFS letter?

Indicated means DCFS found credible evidence of abuse or neglect. Unfounded means there was not enough evidence. Neither word means true or false.

DCFS letters use two words: indicated, which means the investigator found credible evidence of abuse or neglect, and unfounded, which means there was not enough evidence to support the allegation. The letter does not say the report was true or false.

An unfounded finding means DCFS will not proceed. It does not stop the police from investigating, and it does not stop the State's Attorney from filing criminal charges based on the same incident.

If you were indicated, you have the right to appeal. An indicated finding is not the end of the world — in many cases DCFS simply puts a safety plan in place — but the finding stays in the record until it is successfully challenged.

Important: This page is general information about Illinois DCFS procedures, not legal advice. Every case is different. If you can, speak with a qualified Illinois attorney about your specific situation.

How to Appeal an Indicated DCFS Finding in Illinois

DCFS has notified you that an allegation was indicated. You can file an appeal.

Read the full guide