How to Report AbuseGuide to Reporting Suspected Abuse, Neglect or Financial Exploitation of Adults

If the situation is an emergency,involving an immediate risk of abuse or neglect that could result in death or serious harm, call 911 or your local law enforcement agency.

If the situation is not an emergency, you can report in one of these ways:

1. Call the Texas Abuse Hotline at (800) 252-5400 if:
   • You believe your situation requires action in less than 24 hours.
   • You prefer to remain anonymous.
   • You have insufficient data to complete the required information on the report.
   • You do not want an e-mail to confirm your report.

Deaf or Hard of Hearing

If you are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing, or speech-disabled you can call by using the relay service of your choice or by using Relay Texas at 7-1-1. Tell the relay operator to call the Texas Abuse Hotline at (800) 252-5400.

1. Go online to login or create an account and follow the steps in the Online Texas Abuse Hotline - User Guide for online reporting.

What do I need to file this report?

Helpful Information to have on hand when filing a report includes:

• The names, ages, addresses, and phone numbers of those involved.
• Details about the alleged perpetrator and if they are a paid or unpaid caretaker (i.e. family member).
• Details about the individual's physical, medical and mental condition.
• What activities of daily living does the client require assistance with?

Remember: Reports are always confidential and anonymous. You do not need to prove that abuse is occurring; it is up to APS to investigate the suspicions.

There are different types of situations that can be called abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of the elderly or adults with disabilities. The videos below give two good examples:

• Paul is a vulnerable elderly man, living in conditions that pose an immediate threat to his well-being, forcing a call from a concerned family member.
• A hospital social worker submits an online Report of Abuse for a patient, Donna, who is living in conditions that pose a safety hazard.