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Reporting Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation

If you know or have reason to suspect that abuse, neglect, or exploitation has been or is being committed, contact the appropriate authority referenced below. You do not need proof of confirmed maltreatment to make a report. Professionals will investigate suspected claims of elder mistreatment.

Report Abuse
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Report Fraud & Scams
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Helplines & Hotlines
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Law & Legislation

There are a number of state and federal laws that protect older adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Learn more about the laws that promote the rights, well-being, and safety of older adults.
Access Statutes

Law Enforcement
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

Adult Protective Services

If the danger is not imminent, report abuse, neglect, and exploitation in the community to the local Adult Protective Services (APS) agency. In many states, APS is the reporting agency for suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in long-term care facilities. Find the APS reporting number for your area.

State Licensing Agency

Suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in long-term care facilities should be reported to your state licensing agency. In some states, reports of abuse in facilities can be made to APS. Long-term care facilities include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and board and care facilities. Find the Long-Term Care Ombudsman contact number for your area.

Eldercare Locator

Eldercare Locator provides access to local reporting resources. Call 1-800-677-1116. Language interpretation is available.

Mandatory Reporters

Mandatory reporters are professionals who are designated by state statute to report incidents of known or suspected elder mistreatment to reporting agencies, including APS. All states have mandatory reporting laws. Mandatory reporters may include healthcare professionals, social service providers, caregivers, clergy, and financial institutions, among others.

In addition to Adult Protective Services, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and local law enforcement, if you suspect financial fraud and scams, report to the following:

  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report a fraud, scam, or bad business practice. The FTC uses and shares reports with law enforcement partners to help with investigations.
  • National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-372-8311. The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps.
  • Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is the central hub for reporting cyber-enabled crime. It is run by the FBI, the lead federal agency for investigating crim

Find other reporting agencies at USA.gov.

If you have questions about elder abuse or need support, contact the following: