Leaving foster care is a significant transition for young adults. As the time to live independently approaches, it’s natural to feel uncertain about housing, finances, education, and career prospects. These concerns are valid, but numerous support systems are in place to assist you in preparing for this new chapter. This guide delves into the critical aspects of aging out of foster care programs, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources needed for a successful transition.
Preparing for independence is a key part of aging out of foster care programs.
Extended Foster Care: Choosing Continued Support
Upon turning 18, you legally become an adult and have the option to exit foster care. While this legal milestone grants independence, choosing to leave immediately might not be the most beneficial path. Many young people, even those outside the foster care system, often find independent living challenging. Managing finances, housing, and all responsibilities independently can be overwhelming, particularly for foster youth who may lack established support networks. While some short-term financial aid is available, sustained self-sufficiency requires stable employment and careful financial planning.
Opting to remain in or return to foster care after 18 is termed Extended Foster Care. This program allows you to stay in care, adhering to placement rules, while making your own life decisions under the program’s framework. Crucially, placement availability is not guaranteed; losing a placement might mean CPS cannot secure another. Extended Foster Care can extend until your 21st birthday, or even the last day of the month you turn 22 if you are consistently:
- Attending high school or a GED program.
- Enrolled in a higher education institution (minimum 6 credit hours per semester), vocational, or technical program up to the last day of the month you turn 21.
- Participating in an employment program designed to improve job readiness. Discuss eligible activities with your caseworker and PAL worker (page 15).
- Employed for at least 80 hours monthly.
- On school breaks (between semesters), allowing for breaks of 1 to 4 months and up to 3 ½ months between high school/GED graduation and starting post-secondary education, provided enrollment for the next regular session is planned. These breaks are ideal for gaining work experience through jobs, internships, or volunteering.
- Unable to engage in the above activities due to a documented medical condition, such as receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for a disability.
Continued participation in these activities is essential to remain in Extended Foster Care. Non-compliance may lead to program exit. Regular meetings with your caseworker should outline these requirements and provide support. Contact your caseworker and PAL worker promptly if you need assistance with employment, education enrollment, or meeting program requirements.
Returning to Extended Foster Care: Re-engaging Support Systems
Re-entry into Extended Foster Care after leaving is possible but not guaranteed. Placement availability can be a challenge, and desired locations might not be an option. Your previous foster home may not have vacancies. Factors like adult felony or misdemeanor convictions, child abuse or neglect findings, or a history of placement difficulties can further complicate re-entry.
To initiate a return to Extended Foster Care, reach out to regional PAL Staff or the main CPS abuse reporting number at (800)252-5400, stating your status as an aged-out foster youth seeking re-entry. The Texas Foster Youth Justice Project can also offer assistance.
For returns during school breaks (1-4 months), contact CPS well in advance—weeks beforehand, not at the last minute.
Supervised Independent Living (SIL): Bridging to Independence
Supervised Independent Living (SIL) represents a modern Extended Foster Care placement option. SIL allows young adults to live more independently in apartments, dorms, or houses, while still benefiting from casework and support services. SIL placements are managed by various providers, offering diverse housing arrangements. Although caseworker check-ins occur, 24/7 on-site supervision is absent, though some programs might have staff available at the housing location. CPS covers housing costs within SIL, and participants receive funds for expenses like food and phone. Importantly, income from employment within SIL is yours to keep, enabling savings for future expenses like housing after leaving foster care or purchasing a vehicle.
Eligibility for SIL requires being 18-20 years old, applying for a SIL placement, demonstrating maturity and responsibility, and fulfilling Extended Foster Care requirements of working, attending school, participating in training, or having a qualifying medical condition. More information about Supervised Independent Living is available on the DFPS website. SIL has become a popular choice, offering respite from the challenges of immediate independence after foster care.
Trial Independence: A Stepping Stone
Upon leaving foster care at 18 or older, state law initiates a Trial Independence period of 6 months (potentially up to 12 with a court order). During this time, you may live independently while receiving transitional benefits such as the Transitional Living Allowance, Aftercare Room and Board, Education and Training Voucher (available even while in foster care), Aftercare Case Management, and Former Foster Care Children’s (FFCC) Medicaid. The option to Return to Extended Foster Care remains during Trial Independence, contingent on meeting program rules and placement availability. Your CPS court case remains open during Trial Independence. While returning to Extended Foster Care is possible after Trial Independence, court case closure is likely, potentially complicating court assistance for transitional service issues. (See Extended Court Jurisdiction).
Moving to a college dorm is an example of Trial Independence. Returning to Extended Foster Care during summer break temporarily suspends Trial Independence, which resumes upon returning to college in the fall.
Trial Independence, while potentially sounding complex, is designed to facilitate returns to Extended Foster Care and provide transitional support. It also aligns with federal funding requirements for Extended Foster Care. If Extended Foster Care and associated assistance are not desired, no action is needed beyond taking steps to access desired benefits and services.
Limited Placement Options: Planning Ahead
Placement options for older foster youth, particularly those over 18, are unfortunately limited. Ongoing efforts aim to expand these options, but immediate availability isn’t guaranteed if you wish to return to Extended Foster Care, especially with a history of placement difficulties. Careful planning and financial stability are crucial before leaving your current placement. This is especially vital if you are in education or have the option to remain in your current placement post-18. Saving transitional funds for well-defined future plans is advisable. Abruptly leaving foster care without financial means for rent and bills will create significant challenges. If your current placement is unsuitable, but you are open to other foster care options, discuss Transitional Living Programs or Supervised Independent Living Placements with your caseworker and PAL worker, exploring waiting lists and potential future foster home placements.
Leaving Foster Care: Ensuring a Smooth Transition
When deciding to leave foster care, provide ample notice to your caseworker and PAL worker. Advance notice allows for necessary arrangements and benefit initiation, preventing access issues common with sudden departures. Requesting a court order for a 12-month Trial Independence period instead of the standard 6 months is also possible.
Extended Court Jurisdiction: Continued Oversight
Even after turning 18, the court overseeing your foster care case retains jurisdiction for specific periods. This oversight is mandatory during Extended Foster Care and extends for 6-12 months during Trial Independence. This extended jurisdiction facilitates court assistance during transition and streamlines CPS support for potential returns to Extended Foster Care. Court hearings are not mandatory during this period, and your attendance cannot be compelled. However, attending hearings is advisable if concerns or issues arise. CPS will not actively supervise or contact you during Trial Independence unless you request transitional services like the Transitional Living Allowance, Aftercare Room and Board, Education and Training Voucher, and Aftercare Case Management. If you wish to maintain court case oversight beyond Trial Independence until age 21, even without returning to Extended Foster Care, you can request the court to retain jurisdiction.
Communicating your desire for extended court jurisdiction or a 12-month Trial Independence to the Judge during court hearings is crucial. Also, inform your caseworker, CASA, and Attorney Ad Litem. A written request to the court, including your full name, address, phone number, court name, and case number (if known), is another method.
Remember, at 18, you are legally an adult, no longer under CPS custody (conservatorship). The court cannot dictate your actions or living arrangements. Extended Court Jurisdiction, despite its name, is a beneficial provision, aiding in achieving employment or education goals, addressing unmet needs, and resolving issues like identification documents and sibling contact.
If you require court assistance to compel CPS service provision, contact the Texas Foster Youth Justice Project.
Planning for Life After Foster Care: Starting Early
Transition planning should commence with your caseworker around age 16. (If not initiated, proactively raise the issue.) Youth in Texas Juvenile Justice Department facilities who entered while in foster care remain eligible for Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) program services, even post-18 release and ineligibility for foster care return. Contact Disability Rights Texas at (800)252-9108 if PAL services are lacking in your facility or for other assistance as a confined foster youth. (See Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Program section).
Your caseworker should collaborate with foster parents/caregivers, attorney ad litem, CASA, PAL worker, and Aftercare worker. These meetings should define planning needs, discuss Extended Foster Care options, and detail the PAL program. Transition plan creation can be facilitated through a Circle of Support or Transition Plan Meetings, decided in collaboration with your caseworker.
Circle of Support: Building a Network
A Circle of Support aids in post-foster care planning. It’s composed of caring adults you choose for your support system, potentially including foster parents, teachers, relatives, church members, or mentors. Biological family, even parents with terminated rights (unless deemed unsafe by the caseworker), can be included. If family living is planned post-foster care, inform Circle of Support planners and the court to explore this option. A Circle of Support facilitator, distinct from your caseworker, guides the process, discussing invitations to your attorney ad litem, CASA, and PAL worker. The group collaboratively develops a written transition plan. You have the right to advance planning for Circle of Support meetings to ensure attendance and follow-up on action items, including subsequent meetings.
Transition Plan Meetings: Focused Planning
Transition Plan Meetings offer an alternative for foster youth who prefer not to have a Circle of Support or when time constraints necessitate rapid planning. Even after a Transition Plan Meeting, a Circle of Support can be established for broader involvement. Besides your caseworker, you can invite two additional participants. The meeting focuses on developing your transition plan for independent living.
Contact the Texas Foster Youth Justice Project at (877) 313-3688 if planning is unsatisfactory or absent by age 16 ½.
Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Program: Skills and Support
The Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) program, a component of Transitional Living Services, facilitates your foster care transition. It aims to identify and teach independent living skills, provide case management, and offer limited financial assistance post-foster care. DFPS manages the PAL program, contracting with agencies for service delivery.
Clarify the specific PAL program aspect being discussed when you encounter the term “PAL,” as it encompasses various activities and involved personnel. PAL workers are CPS Preparation for Adult Living program employees, serving as primary contacts for transition-related services and resources, including Transitional Living Services.
PAL program services are available to current and former foster youth aged 16-21, and in some instances, 14 and 15-year-olds. The program serves both current and aged-out foster youth.
Independent Living Skills Assessment: Gauging Readiness
Around your 16th birthday, DFPS must assess your independent living readiness using the Casey Life Skills Assessment. Someone familiar with you, like a foster parent, foster home staff, or caseworker, also completes an assessment. This must occur before age 16 ½ and ideally before the Life Skills Training Class (PAL class). The assessment identifies strengths, areas needing development (e.g., money management, cooking, job skills), and guides you, your caregiver, and caseworker in preparing for independent living.
How to Contact PAL Workers: Accessing Support
Locate the PAL office serving your region of Texas here or by searching “DFPS Preparation for Adult Living” online. Contact the office for your current location. If redirected or unanswered, contact the State PAL office at (512)438-5442.
Life Skills Training Class: Building Essential Competencies
This class, often called PAL or PAL class, is offered to foster youth aged 16 and older, representing a key part of the Preparation for Adult Living program. It provides independent living training across 6 areas:
- Health and Safety
- Housing and Transportation
- Job Readiness
- Financial Management
- Life Decisions and Responsibilities
- Personal and Social Relationships
The program involves at least 30 hours of training, typically delivered over several weeks in evenings or weekends, or sometimes as a weekend-long intensive. While it introduces essential independent living skills, continued practice is vital.
Crucially, successful completion in at least 5 of the 6 areas, including financial management, is required to qualify for the $1,000 Transitional Services Allowance. Enrollment after leaving foster care is too late for eligibility. Contact your regional PAL Staff if class scheduling hasn’t occurred by your 17th birthday or if transportation to class is an issue. Contact the Texas Foster Youth Justice Project if class access remains unresolved.
In specific cases, DFPS PAL program approval allows for Life Skills Training class completion via an independent study guide, requiring close adult mentorship. While the class is generally preferable, the study guide is an option if class attendance is impossible before leaving care. Plan and request this option proactively due to completion time requirements.
Financial Services: Transitional Support
Transitional Living Allowance and Aftercare Room and Board are financial assistance options post-foster care. Refer to Finding a Place to Live in the Housing section for details.
Health Care Benefits: Ensuring Coverage
Texas foster youth aging out of care are eligible for free health insurance until age 26. Upon leaving foster care at 18 or older, automatic enrollment in Former Foster Care Children’s (FCC) Medicaid Insurance should occur. However, steps are needed to maintain coverage until age 26. Consult the Health Insurance/Medical section of the website for further information.
Case Management for Aged Out Foster Youth: Ongoing Guidance
Post-foster care, case management services are available until age 21 to aid in your transition. Case managers, typically from private agencies contracted with CPS, assist with benefit access, housing location, job seeking and training, college/education applications and financial aid, independent living planning, budgeting, bank account setup, and more. Utilizing case management services is optional. Contact regional or state Preparation for Adult Living offices for assistance in accessing these services.
Living with Biological Parents: Considerations for Benefits
Returning to a biological parent or the person you were removed from is a choice some foster youth make. As long as CPS conservatorship remains until age 18, aged-out foster youth benefits should remain unaffected, even if CPS facilitates placement with parents. Conservatorship implies a court order placing you under CPS care. However, if the court grants custody or adoption to biological parents/others before age 18, benefit eligibility can be impacted. This complex issue requires detailed discussion with your PAL worker, attorney ad litem, and CASA if considering leaving CPS conservatorship before 18. Even when considered aged-out, living with a biological parent or the person you were removed from may result in withheld Transitional Living Allowance and Aftercare Room and Board if CPS has safety concerns regarding that person. CPS aims to avoid providing funds to individuals who might mistreat you.
Educational, Vocational, and Supportive Services: Expanding Opportunities
All youth, in or out of foster care, and regardless of age, can receive PAL Staff assistance with:
- Obtaining Tuition Waiver letters.
- Information and application assistance for the Education Training Voucher (ETV) program.
- College/education applications and financial aid applications.
Additional services, subject to need and funding, include:
- Vocational assessments and/or training.
- GED classes.
- College entrance exam preparation.
- Driver education.
- High school graduation expenses.
- Identification documents.
- Counseling.
- Volunteer mentoring programs.
Transition Planning Assistance: Regional PAL Support
Regional PAL Staff play a vital role in providing transitional services for youth still in foster care. PAL Staff or Coordinators should assist you and your caseworker in transition preparation. Their responsibilities include transition planning participation, explaining foster youth benefits, aiding in regional education, employment, and housing resource identification and access, assisting with identification documents, and guiding higher education and financial aid applications.
Other Preparation for Adult Living Program Activities: Expanding Horizons
Statewide Teen Conference: An annual college campus-based three-day conference with workshops addressing issues relevant to foster youth preparing for adulthood. Adult sponsors like caseworkers or PAL workers accompany youth.
Statewide Youth Leadership Council: Composed of two current or former foster youth from each region, providing youth perspectives and input for policy and program development and recommendations for service improvement.
Regional Youth Leadership Council: Some CPS regions have youth leadership councils. Contact your regional PAL worker for regional information.
Regional Activities: Various regional activities may include teen conferences, college visits, wilderness trips, mentor programs, support groups, job development workshops, and youth forums.
PAL College Conference: A 2-day weekend conference at Texas A&M University-Commerce focusing on higher education opportunities for foster youth in Texas colleges.
PEAKS Camp: A four-day camp focused on building self-esteem, problem-solving, communication skills, and providing recreational activities.
Aging-Out Seminars/ Transitional Living Conference: A mandatory one-day program for foster youth age 17 in licensed or verified foster care, building upon Life Skills Training Class content.
Contact your regional PAL Staff and caseworker for information or participation in statewide/regional events or questions about services and resources.
Transition Centers: One-Stop Support Hubs
Transition Centers act as centralized service locations for older and aged-out foster youth, and potentially other at-risk youth and young adults (sometimes up to age 25). They serve as hubs for programs like Preparation for Adult Living (PAL), offering job skill development, job searching, career exploration, college enrollment assistance, flexible high school diploma/GED programs, financial aid application support (including Education and Training Vouchers – ETV), housing assistance, identification document help, mentoring, and access to aged-out foster youth benefits.
Service offerings vary by Transition Center. Visiting your local center and engaging with staff is the best way to learn about available resources. Visiting a Transition Center should be a key part of your foster care transition planning. If you relocate within Texas, remember that other Transition Centers may be available. Even if physical access is challenging, contacting the center to learn about their services and support is beneficial.
Transition Center resources may include:
- Bus tokens.
- Housing Assistance.
- Employment and Education Assistance.
- Counseling.
- Computer Labs and Internet access.
- ETV and financial aid application help.
- Aged-out foster youth financial benefits.
- Limited case management for former foster youth ages 21-25.
- Case manager staff for aged-out foster youth.
A current list of Texas Transition Centers is available online.
Other Resources: Expanding Your Network
Texas Foster Youth Connections offers resources for foster youth and general guidance, providing information on foster care records, job opportunities, hotlines, housing, finance, education, healthcare, and other support areas for young adults preparing for independent living.
The Texas Youth Hotline, reachable at (800)989-6884, via chat, or text at (512)872-5777, offers confidential counseling, information, referrals, and service location assistance for current and former foster youth.
Guidance counselors at current or former high schools and graduates are also valuable resources.
211: Connecting to Local Services
Dialing 211 or visiting 211Texas.org connects you to health and human services within your community, providing access to program information and support.
