Report Concerns Involving Vulnerable Adults

The page explains how you can report vulnerable‑adult abuse in Washington and what information you should provide when you make a report.

Picture of a young man smiling with the text: Help Protect Vulnerable Adults, See. Stop. Report.

>>>PLEASE CALL 911 IF THIS IS AN EMERGENCY.

If you suspect a vulnerable adult is being abused, exploited or neglected, or experiencing self-neglect, please make a report to Adult Protective Services. You can do this through our online form or call us at 1-877-734-6277. You can make a report at any time, day or night.

If you need to report a complaint or concern about a licensed long-term care setting - nursing homes, adult family homes, assisted living and enhanced care facilities, ICF/IID or receiving supported living services, please make a report to our Complaint Resolution Unit through our online form, or call 1-800-562-6078.

All reports will be screened by Adult Protective Services and/or Residential Care Services. If the person is in immediate danger, call 911. You do not need proof to report suspected abuse, and you do not need to give your name. If you are an employee making a mandated report on behalf of a licensed long-term care facility or certified supported living agency, please complete a Residential Care Services Online Report.

When You Report

You will be asked to give the person’s name, address, contact information and details about why you are concerned. You will also be asked for your name and number or some way of contacting you if the investigator has follow-up questions. Unless there is a court action, law enforcement has been called in, or you agree, your identity is confidential. If you report in good faith, you cannot be held liable for any damages resulting from reporting.

What to Expect After Making a Report

The report will be triaged and prioritized for investigation. A DSHS staff member may contact the reporter for more information. All reports are confidential (public disclosure or other state and federal regulations may apply).

Making a False Report

Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 74.34.053 Failure to report — False reports — Penalties, Section (2) states that:

A person who intentionally, maliciously, or in bad faith makes a false report of alleged abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, or neglect of a vulnerable adult is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Links to Other Resources

 

 

Report Online

Make an online report of abuse or neglect

Make an online report about concerns at a residential facility

Report by Phone

Make a report by phone:

Adult Protective Services:

1-877-734-6277

Complaint Resolution Unit:

1-800-562-6078
(TTY) 1-800-737-7931