Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Dot gov

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

HTTPS

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock (LockA locked padlock) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

  • About HHS
  • Programs & Services
  • Grants & Contracts
  • Laws & Regulations
  • Radical Transparency
  • Big Wins
Breadcrumb
  1. Home
  2. Answers
  3. Programs for Families and Children
  4. At what age can a child legally be left alone to care for themselves?
  • Coronavirus
  • Grants
  • Health Insurance Reform
  • HHS Administrative
  • HIPAA
  • Medicare and Medicaid
  • Programs for Families and Children
  • Public Health and Safety

At what age can a child legally be left alone to care for themselves?

State child abuse and neglect reporting laws do not specify the age at which a child can be left home alone. You may want to contact your local police department or child protective services agency for information about specific local regulations or ordinances.

If you have concerns that a child is being left home alone inappropriately, you should report your concerns to the appropriate authorities, such as Child Protective Services (CPS), in the State in which the child lives. Each State has trained professionals who can evaluate the situation and determine whether intervention and services are needed. 

Most States have a toll-free number to call to report suspected abuse. Please refer to the related organizations listing at the Child Welfare Information Gateway for information about where to call to make a report within your State. If you need help in locating your local child protective services agency, you may call Childhelp® 24- hours a day, seven days a week at its toll-free number, 1.800.4 A CHILD® (1.800.422.4453).

For more information, see Leaving Your Child Home Alone (PDF-332 KB).

Posted in: Programs for Families and Children

Related Questions

What is child abuse or neglect? What is the definition of child abuse and neglect?
Is there any help available for my single parent family?
How do I report elder abuse or abuse of an older person or senior?

Search HHS FAQs by questions or keywords:

Content created by Digital Communications Division (DCD)
Content last reviewed October 1, 2024
Back to top

Subscribe to Email Updates

Receive the latest updates from the Secretary and Press Releases.

Subscribe
  • Contact HHS
  • Careers
  • HHS FAQs
  • Nondiscrimination Notice
  • Press Room
  • HHS Archive
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Privacy Policy
  • Budget/Performance
  • Inspector General
  • Web Site Disclaimers
  • EEO/No Fear Act
  • FOIA
  • The White House
  • USA.gov
  • Vulnerability Disclosure Policy
HHS Logo

HHS Headquarters

200 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20201
Toll Free Call Center: 1-877-696-6775​

Follow HHS

Follow Secretary Kennedy