Foster Parent Insurance

Foster parenting and providing respite care are difficult jobs. This program of self insurance, which has now been in force for many years, helps protect the financial interest of these important caregivers. This program is paid for by the State of Maine and is for the benefit of certain DHHS licensed foster parents and respite care providers. It basically insures against claims made by:

• Third parties against foster parents and respite care providers because of the acts of a foster child or respite care client;
• A foster child or a respite care client against foster parents and respite care providers which arise directly out of foster parent or respite care provider activities;
• Foster parents or respite care providers for damages or losses caused by a foster child or respite care client to the property of the foster parent or respite care provider.

Please note: this policy does not insure group homes or DHHS contracted parties. It insures only individual foster parents and respite care providers licensed by DHHS.

Risk Management Division provides DHHS with a supply of insurance policy copies for distribution to new foster parents and respite care providers during the licensing process. State of Maine foster parents and respite care providers may also obtain a copy of the policy by contacting Risk Management Division directly.

Like all insurance policies, this policy contains certain coverage limits, exclusions, and conditions. Persons insured under this policy are encouraged to read it thoroughly. Questions regarding the policy should be directed to the Risk Management Division.

It is important to note that the policy has claims reporting requirements which must be followed in order not to jeopardize coverage and these are spelled out in the policy. Here is a brief summary of these requirements:

• For damages or losses to the property of a foster parent or respite care provider caused by a foster child or respite care client, a claim will need to be submitted in writing to Risk Management within 45 days of the loss. All reasonable steps to prevent further damage to the property must be taken and damaged property should not be disposed of until permission to do so is given by Risk Management. Click here to download a copy of the claim form.
• For claims made by others against a foster parent or respite care provider (typically a lawsuit or the threat of one), use this form. Be sure to forward any legal document received (such as, demands, notices, summons, pleadings or other documents) to Risk Management and call within 72 hours of receipt of such documents for further instructions.
• Cooperate fully with us or our representative and provide such information and documents as is requested.
  Do not voluntarily make a payment, assume any obligation, or incur any expense, other than for first aid without our express approval.
  

When making a claim, foster parents and respite care providers should understand that this policy and program is excess to any other applicable insurance. For example, if a loss involves damage to a car, the insurance covering that car will need to be considered in the claims process.

Questions ? Click here for information on how to contact us.