For approved adoptive applicants with whom you did not place a child, records must be kept for at least how long?

• A. 2 years
• B. 3 years
• C. 5 years
• D. 7 years

Answer: (C)

Record retention for approved adoptive applicants who weren’t placed is the concept being tested. Keeping these files for at least five years ensures you can address any follow-up questions, renewals, audits, or licensing inquiries that might arise after approval. Five years provides enough time for potential issues to surface and for regulatory review, while not extending the period longer than necessary, which helps protect privacy and manage storage. Shorter timeframes may not cover all oversight windows, and a much longer period typically isn’t required. So, the required minimum is five years, making it the most appropriate duration.