Services are provided to Native American children following the rules in the federal and Washington State Indian Child Welfare Acts (ICWA). These laws apply to areas like child protection, foster care, guardianship, adoption, and when parental rights are ended.
Besides the services DCYF gives directly, more help is offered through contracts with federally recognized Tribes and other Native organizations in Washington. This lets Tribes and groups provide care to their own members and Native people living off reservations.
DCYF also checks that its staff, Tribes, and partner agencies follow all state and federal laws about caring for Native American children. It gives guidance and support when needed.
ICW Case Review
ICW 2025 Case Reviewers Training
Important Documents:
- Tribal Response to ICWA Notice (09-538) Form:
- Active Efforts for ICWA Infographic
Contact
Department of Children, Youth, and Families
Native American Inquiry Request (NAIR) Contact Information
Washington State Tribes
Tribal Indian Child Welfare Social Services Directors and Staff Contact Information
Intake Referral and After Hours Field Response Staff Contact Information
Tribal Contact and Coordination Guidelines - Coordinating intake referrals with Washington State federally recognized Tribes when a case involves a family that is or may be affiliated with a Tribe.
Policy Memos
April 2021 - Temporary Procedures for ICW Proceedings
April 2021 - Temporary Procedures for ICW Proceedings, Frequently Asked Questions
June 2015 - CA Authority and Staff Role in Conducting CPS Investigation and the Application of ICWA