While having a criminal record can pose a barrier to becoming a foster parent in Wisconsin, it does not automatically disqualify someone from the potential to be a foster parent. Our responsibility is to ensure that the families we license through CCR are safe, stable, and nurturing. Any individual seeking approval to foster in Wisconsin will undergo mandatory background checks.
Most disqualifications of foster parents in Wisconsin result from background checks. However, you don't need to worry. While there is a list of serious crimes and offenses that will prevent you from fostering, most offenses will not bar an applicant from obtaining a Wisconsin foster license.
All prospective foster parents, other adults residing in the home, children ages nine and older, and respite providers must undergo a criminal history background check. Prospective foster parents to be named on a license will also submit fingerprints.
Upon submitting the initial foster parent application, CCR applicants will receive the required background and fingerprint paperwork by mail. They must complete their fingerprints at a local police station and then return them to CCR for external processing. It may take 2-3 weeks to collect results from all the involved outside agencies. After that, our licensing department will review the results to determine if an applicant can proceed with the next steps of the licensing process.
CCR will run checks through the following agencies:
Foster parent applicants are encouraged to be forthcoming with any criminal history.
Our initial conversation with potential foster parents involves discussing a lot of information. We inquire about family dynamics, available bedroom space, support systems, work schedules, and criminal history. It's crucial to be honest from the start rather than discovering a month later that something in your background will prevent you from fostering. There is no judgment here! Our staff has spoken with thousands of potential foster parents and can quickly determine if your history may disqualify you from fostering.
Don't worry too much if you have one or several of the following.
Of course, these are just examples, and there is never a guarantee of licensure. Our licensing department must ensure prospective foster parents can provide a safe, stable home environment for children and youth with trauma histories. Our staff is happy to talk with you about your personal history or situation and give you more insight and direction regarding any crimes or offenses.
The following is a partial list of offenses barring an individual from fostering for five years after said crime was committed, then barred unless rehabilitation approval is granted.
What does this mean? Am I disqualified from being a foster parent?
A foster license will NOT be issued to anyone convicted of a felony, including but not limited to:
There are many requirements to be a foster parent. Most people meet the basic requirements to foster. However, there are occasions when we must turn away a prospective applicant. Recently an applicant did not have a valid driver's license. Unfortunately, we could not proceed with her application. Another applicant lived in a one-bedroom apartment without plans to move. Unfortunately, a second bedroom is required as foster kids cannot share a room with adults.
There are many requirements and examples, and our staff looks forward to speaking with you confidently about your situation.
