Caregiver Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Caregiver Authorization?

It is an authorization form which allows a Caregiver who is a qualified relative over the age of 18, with whom the child lives to enroll the child in school and authorize school-related medical care.  It may also allow the Caregiver to seek other medical care for the child.

» Download the Caregiver Authorization Form

What is a “Qualified Relative”? 

A “Qualified Relative” is either a spouse, parent, stepparent, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew, first cousin, or any person denoted by the prefix “grand” or “great”, or  the spouse of any of the persons specified in this definition, even after the marriage has been terminated by death or dissolution.

Who can act as a Caregiver?

Any Qualified Relative who lives with the minor child.  If you are not a Qualified Relative or a licensed foster parent the law may require you to obtain a guardianship or foster home license in order to care for the minor. 

Does the Caregiver Authorization entitle the Caregiver to custody or rights over the minor child’s parents or guardians?

No.  The Caregiver Authorization does not affect the rights of the minor child’s parents or legal guardian regarding the care, custody, and control of the minor, and does not mean the caregiver has legal custody of the minor.  The parents or guardian can take custody of the child at any time.

How can a Caregiver obtain custody or rights over the minor child?