- Maternal and paternal grandparents.
- Maternal and paternal aunts.
- Maternal and paternal uncles.
- Adult siblings of the child.
- Any other relative identified by a parent or child.

The notice to relatives must:
- Specify that the child has been removed from the custody of the
parent(s).
- Explain the options available to the relative to participate in the child's care and placement.
- Explain the options that may be lost by failing to respond to the notice.
- Describe the requirements to become a licensed foster family home.
- Outline the additional services and supports available for the child in a licensed foster care home.
- Describe how to enter a relative guardianship assistance agreement.

The Relative Notification Letter, DHS-990 must be sent to all identified relatives along with two forms:

- The DHS-989, Relative Response allows a relative to indicate whether they would like to be considered for placement.

- The DHS-988, Relative Search Information (hyperlink) allows a relative to provide contact information of other relatives who may also be interested in placement or maintaining connections with the child.

When the CPS worker receives responses from the relatives, copies of the forms and any additional information are forwarded to the assigned foster care worker within three business days. As other relatives are identified through the relative response forms, they are to be contacted within five business days from receipt of the form. All contacts must be documented on the DHS-987, Relative Documentation Form. Throughout the case, the foster care worker must continue to seek, identify, and notify relatives until legal permanency for the child is achieved.

As the foster care worker develops the case plan, the Relative Response form is used as a resource for the child's potential placement and permanency options, and also to preserve family connections through visits, contacts and other involvement with family members as needed and appropriate.