[Archive]

Originally Posted By Kris

We have just started attending foster care classes and would like to adopt a special needs child. We are fostering first. Thank you

[Archive]

Originally Posted By Graham

Hi Kris, it depends on your circumstances. If the child has costs related to any condition existing before the adoption then subsidy can pay for all of those no matter your circumstances. If you have a lot of money you won't be getting any other subsidy. If you need extra money to be able to care for the child at all (ie: you don't have much money left over each month) then you can get up to the state's basic foster care rate for the child's age. Some people get the same subsidy as they received in foster care. Most get less, and some get more - it's very much an individual case kind of thing. It's NOT welfare - it's your adopted child's right under federal law! Unfortunately some counties use a means test to decide who gets what, despite that being prohibited ny law. Also, the law is changing for the better and I'll report the differences here if the bill is signed by the new Governor who says he's pro-adoption, but we'll see.....