Illinois Department of Children & Family Services

As of July 1, 2026, child care licensure is managed by the Illinois Department of Early Childhood. For providers, nothing is changing. All licensing representatives and staff remain ready to assist you. If you have questions related to licensure, please reach out to IDEC directly at Questions.IDEC@illinois.gov or your current CCR&R.

Are you concerned about a child or family in need? Find support here.

Do you suspect child abuse or neglect?
Make a report online or by phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

ChildAbuse.Illinois.gov

1-800-25ABUSE (252-2873)

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Governor JB Pritzker signed the Kinship in Demand (KIND) Act into law on February 5, 2025. This law empowers DCFS to establish more flexible certification standards for relative caregivers and ensures payments will be equal to those received by licensed foster parents.