What Disqualifies You From Becoming a Foster Parent in Virginia?

There is a common misconception in Virginia that one must have an impeccable background and a picture-perfect home to be approved as a foster parent. The truth of the matter is that the process is about your ability to provide a child with a safe, stable, and nurturing place. Of course, there are matters that can hinder approval or call for closer scrutiny, but perfection is not the standard.

To put some of these notions to rest and come to the licensing process well prepared, it is useful to know what disqualifies you from becoming a foster parent in Virginia.

What Disqualifies You From Becoming A Foster Parent

Criminal Background Checks

A criminal record is often the reason an application is denied. By law, we run checks on all applicants and any other adults in the household. Some offenses are considered barrier crimes due to the risk they pose to a child’s safety; these are non-negotiable under Virginia law and include sexual offenses, violent felonies, and other convictions involving children.

That said, state regulations are applied to each case on its own merits. In rare instances, an older offense might not be an automatic bar if an exception exists in the law, but do not count on a conviction being ignored. The agency will make clear how the rules bear on your situation.

Founded Child Abuse or Neglect Findings

The state has an obligation to place children in secure homes, which is why Virginia consults the Child Protective Services (CPS) Central Registry.

A founded finding of abuse or neglect will stand in the way of approval. This is true for the main applicant as well as other adults in the house, where the law dictates.

Unsafe Home Environment

You need not have a large or costly residence to qualify, but it must meet our safety standards. Our specialists will be looking at things like:

• Functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Clean and sanitary conditions
• Working utilities
• Proper storage for firearms and medications
• Adequate bedroom space
• Appropriate sleeping arrangements

While you can generally correct minor deficiencies before we give the go-ahead, more serious hazards will put a hold on your license until they are fixed.

For further reading on home preparation, see our guide What Do I Need in My Home for a Home Study?

Adults Living in the Home

Since foster children will be around everyone in the house, Virginia mandates background checks for all adult household members.

Even if you check every box, a cohabitant with a disqualifying record could impact your eligibility. It is a measure taken to ensure the child's stability.

Dishonesty During the Application

Honesty goes a long way with us. We are aware that many have had their share of difficulties in the past and value accountability over an unblemished record.

But making an attempt to conceal financial troubles, prior involvement with child welfare, or a criminal history will likely lead to denial. Trust with the licensing agency is established early on by being forthright and accurate.

Inability to Meet Licensing Requirements

Foster parents in Virginia are expected to be fully cooperative, from the home study process through interviews and any training that is required.

An application can be turned down if an individual:

• Will not undergo a background check
• Does not allow for a home inspection
• Has not finished the mandatory training or put in the requested paperwork
• Is unable to show they can offer safe supervision

Such standards are in place so the agency can be sure an applicant is up to the task of foster parenting.

Financial Instability Is Rarely a Disqualifier

It is a common concern that one does not make enough to qualify as a foster parent. For the most part, there is no requirement to be well-off; rather, the expectation is that a household can cover its own expenses without making the foster care maintenance payment its primary source of funds.

The monthly stipend is there for the child, not to put money in the family’s pocket. Agencies will look at:

• Overall financial responsibility
• The ability to keep up with bills
• Whether employment is stable

Mental and Physical Health

A medical condition is not in itself a bar to fostering. What matters to the agency is whether that condition impinges on one’s capacity to look after a child safely.

In some instances, documentation may be requested to confirm an applicant is fit for the role. That said, many with chronic conditions go on to be successful foster parents as long as they can provide consistent care.

Reapplying After a Denial

There are circumstances in which an applicant can put a denial behind them and return to the process later.

One might take the time to:

• Improve financial standing
• Finish off some training
• Put right any safety issues in the home

Permanent disqualifications stemming from barrier crimes or founded child abuse cases are another matter, however, and generally cannot be overcome unless Virginia law allows it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a criminal record an automatic no?

Not necessarily. It comes down to the nature of the offense, its timing, and what is defined under Virginia’s barrier crime statutes.

Will bad credit stand in my way?

Usually not. Credit scores are less of a factor for agencies than actual financial stability.

What if I am a renter?

That is fine. There are plenty of foster parents who do not own their homes, as long as the property complies with safety and licensing rules.

Are background checks needed for every adult in the house?

Yes, as a rule of thumb, all adults in the household must be cleared during the licensing process.

To Wrap Up

You may be surprised to find that the path to becoming a foster parent is not about leading a flawless life but about demonstrating the stability and desire to care for a child. Of course, unsafe conditions or serious convictions will preclude approval, but a great deal can be worked out during the licensing process.

The best approach is to sit down with a licensed child-placing agency to get a clear picture of your eligibility.