[mommytomykids]

When a foster parent is asked to become the legal guardian of a fc... do they still receive services such as subsidy, medical, Wic, etc...? We are not related and the child involved is under 2 years old. I looked up alot of info on the web but wanted to see if anyone has had experience with this... I am very interested in hearing your experience if you have gone from fostering to guardian. What questions should I ask CW?

[c.a]

It probably depends on your state. In Mass guardians are eligible for about the same subsidies as an adoptive placement. It will depend on the child's needs - medical should be covered until the child is 18. Subsidy will depend on your local rules - here it would be same as foster care placement. As guardian you may be able to applly for other benefits - is the child eligible for social security? Child support form the parents?

Good luck

[mom2behappy]

guardians are NOT entitled to any subsidy. they may put the child on Welfare tho

[mommytomykids]

Thanks for the responses...anyone from Indiana out there know the deal here? I am planning on meeting with an adoption attorney who works with DCS.

[Godmother]

I was planning to take guardianship of two girls, but had to decline when I found out how many benefits they would lose. They would no longer qualify for free breakfast and lunch at school. They wouldn't qualify for free college tuition. The local group that does special things for foster children would no longer pay for their band instruments, summer camp, school yearbooks, etc. I would be responsible for transportation and hotels for them to see their mother. The case would be closed and I would be responsible for making sure their visits were supervised by a qualified supervisor. I would be responsible for any medical and psychological services that medicare didn't cover. If mom decided to fight the guardianship later on, I would have to pay for a lawyer to fight it while she gets free legal services. It is just too risky for me to do.

[mommytomykids]

I need to hear these stories! Thank you! I spoke to an attorney and did a bit of research so we are not wanting to go down the guardianship path at all right now!!