Are you required to report?
Mandated-reporter law varies by state. Some states require every adult to report suspected child abuse or trafficking; others restrict the duty to designated professionals. Use the lookup below for an informational starting point.
This is reference material, not legal advice. State statutes change. Verify with your state child-welfare authority or counsel before acting on a borderline case. When in doubt — call 911 if a child is in immediate danger, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
It depends on your role — your state designates specific professionals.
Designated professionals are mandatory reporters.
Call 911. Don't wait for a hotline.
Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (text HELP to 233733), or your state's child-protective services intake line.
Teachers, medical professionals, social workers, clergy in many states, and law enforcement are typically mandated reporters. Check your licensing board's guidance for the specific scope of your duty.
All states at a glance
Universal-reporter states are highlighted. Source basis: childwelfare.gov state-statute summaries.