[Havebigheart]

This was mentioned to us way back when we were first contacted about possibly adopting our relative's child, who is currently in foster care. I didn't inquire much about it because we want to adopt her no matter the circumstances. What is this subsidy? We have great health insurance so that's not really a concern but does a foster to adopt relative qualify for state benefits such as health care? I'm such a newbie so when someone is talking about this subsidy, I have no idea what is actually is!

[Sleeplvr]

Not sure where you are located but many states are starting to offer subsidies to relative placements.

A subsidy package typically includes medical care & a monthly per diem. You can negotiate other services depending on the child's needs. The monthly check is based on the child's age and/or level of care. The level of care is determined by the child's special needs.

I would look into it if I were you. You can always refuse the subsidy if you think it isn't necessary.

[Havebigheart]

Thank you!

[c.a]

Here is a site with info on adoption subsidies:

NACAC | Adoption Subsidy

You can link to fact sheets for your state/province which will provide detailed information for your area. Generally, if the child meets certain criteria (disability, age, sibling groups, and a few others) they are eligible for an adoption subsidy which is usually about equivalent to the payment a foster parent would receive for the same child.

You said that you have great insurance, but you may not want to turn down the state offered insurance. My ason has state insurance (no copays, over the counter medication is covered and dental is covered) until he is eighteen.

Some states also have college benefits for children who are adopted from state custody (Massachusetts now offers free tuition and fees at any state college or university).

Good luck!

[hkolln]

We receive an adoption subsidy after adopting our niece. We get medicaid until she's 18 and the 300/mo stipend until she's 18 from Idaho (sending state). This will help with her college...as we're going to sock that 300/mo away so she has a nice college fund

[RobinKay]

Originally Posted by hkolln

We receive an adoption subsidy after adopting our niece. We get medicaid until she's 18 and the 300/mo stipend until she's 18 from Idaho (sending state). This will help with her college...as we're going to sock that 300/mo away so she has a nice college fund

Wow, that is great for her. Do you have to deal with social workers or the state because you receive the subsidy?

[hkolln]

Our niece came to us from Idaho and we're in Florida. We had to go by the adoption subsidy amounts in Idaho which was 300/month right now. We also got 2k in travel expenses reimbursed by Idaho. The sending state is the one who works with you on the subsidy (if you are doing an ICPC) when the child comes to you from another state. Due to her being 8 and being Title IV eligible we automatically got the subsidy (plus because of the aggravated abuse she suffered she qualified). It definitely helps alot!

We automatically get the subsidy check from Idaho every month just as we got the foster care stipend each month. Only difference is now it is thru the adoption area and not via foster care.

[xxsurroundedbyxy]

In our state you must adopt a special needs child or three or more children from foster care to qualify for an adoption subsidy.

I know a couple of mom's who felt like by taking the subsidy, the children weren't really theirs. You can always refuse it.......I would NOT refuse any help offered. You never know what medical/emotional problems the child may have to overcome at a later date and that money can be set aside each month for that day should it come. Lord willing, you will not have to use it for that and it can someday help that child move out on their own or pay for some college etc.

Definitely talk to your relative's caseworker about what is offered in the state they are in and do not feel guilty about taking advantage of the services.

Kim