A brief update on some significant progress we've made with our partners at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) as a result of our collective advocacy to address the historic delays in obtaining social licensure in the state.
1.) New Vendor Agreement for Modernization: IDFPR has finally chosen a new vendor and signed an agreement to modernize its operations. This is a promising step toward a quicker and more efficient process for license application and renewal in the state. We are continuing to push for social work to be prioritized in the transition to the new software which aims to eliminate paper applications and expedite processing times.
2.) Virtual Application Portal Launch: Starting mid/late August 2024, IDFPR will launch a virtual version of the application process for social workers. While this isn't the new system we've been advocating for, it will provide a virtual portal to apply for social work licensure, helping to avoid the delays associated with paper applications until the new system is online. We will develop an in-depth walkthrough and FAQ once the online application is live. We imagine the new application will still require uploading some forms (like the VE-SW), but we are waiting for confirmation from the department on how the process will go. They will continue to accept paper applications for the time being.
3.) Online Payment Portal for Paper Applications: For those still submitting paper applications, the department has extended access to an online payment portal for social workers. This new option allows you to pay your application fee online, eliminating the need to send a check which was one of the major bottlenecks in processing times. You can now pay this fee online before sending in your paper application at: IDFPR Online Payment Portal.
As always, we want to extend our sincere thanks to the leaders in the governor's office, the Illinois General Assembly, and IDFPR for their collaborative efforts in speeding up the licensing process. Their partnership has been invaluable in addressing both the short-term and long-term bottlenecks facing our profession.
Lastly, we wish to thank you the NASW-Illinois Chapter Membership for their ongoing advocacy efforts and unwavering support of the chatper and association. It is through the active participation of members like our that change becomes possible. Together, we are making a difference.
Not a member yet? Join our dynamic collective of social workers and start driving real change in Illinois today!
Article on the IDFPR announcement: Capitol Fax.com - Your Illinois News Radar » IDFPR will finally purchase online licensing system
NASW-Illinois Chapter Statement:
The National Association of Social Workers, Illinois Chapter, congratulates the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) on its recent announcement that the state is finally moving forward with modernizing the professional licensing process in our state. The selection of NIC Licensing Solutions, LLC, as a partner in this effort is a promising step towards a more efficient, accessible, and user-friendly licensing system for all professionals in Illinois.
As representatives of the social work community, we are particularly encouraged by the potential this modernization holds for mental health professionals, many of whom have long relied on outdated paper applications. We strongly urge IDFPR to prioritize these professions in the transition to the new system. Streamlining the licensing process is crucial to enabling these professionals to enter the field promptly, especially as the state continues to face significant mental health workforce shortages.
We also encourage IDFPR to take this opportunity to review the current licensure requirements and consider eliminating any unnecessary steps, questions, or documents that may create unnecessary barriers for those fully qualified professionals seeking to serve the people of Illinois.
We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative and remain committed to working with IDFPR to ensure that Illinois remains a leader in fostering a strong, ethical, and well-supported workforce in the mental health field.