Department of Children & Families Record Requests

Learn about the types of records you may be able to access from DCF

There are three types of records that you may be able to request from the Department of Children and Families.

Public Records: The Massachusetts Public Records Law and its Regulations provide that each person has a right of access to public information. This right of access includes the right to inspect, copy or have copies of records provided upon the payment of a reasonable fee. Public information does not include DCF case records (see Personal Records below).

Personal Records: If you or your minor child have been involved with DCF, you may request a copy of your records. Attorneys, guardians ad litem, and court personnel may also request records for court related matters.

Child Protective Service (CPS) Background Records Checks: In accordance with the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act, employers, professional licensing agencies, and others may request a child protective services background record check to determine whether a person has any supported child abuse and/or neglect reports within Massachusetts.

Select an option below to make a record request.

Please note, the information you seek may already be available online. Please see DCF Reports and Dashboards below for commonly requested documents.

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