One of the most common questions families have when exploring foster care or adoption is how finances work. Below, CHS answers frequently asked questions about the costs, reimbursements, and financial supports available for foster care and adoption in North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be wealthy to foster or adopt?
No. Families do not need to be wealthy to foster or adopt through CHS. What is required is stable income sufficient to meet your household’s current needs.
Is there a fee to apply through CHS?
No. There is no cost to apply, train, or become licensed as a foster parent through CHS. A $20 fee is required to complete a NC based background check for any adult living in the home. At times, there also may be out of state background check fees if individuals have lived in other states during the past five years.
Do foster parents receive financial support in North Carolina?
Yes. Foster parents receive a monthly foster care reimbursement (stipend) to help offset the cost of caring for a child placed in their home.
Is the foster care stipend considered income?
No. The foster care stipend is not a salary or income. It is a reimbursement intended to help cover child-related expenses.
What does the foster care reimbursement cover?
The monthly reimbursement helps with everyday costs such as:
- Food and groceries
- Clothing and shoes
- Personal hygiene items
- School supplies
- Allowance and activities
- Birthday and holiday gifts
Do foster parents pay for medical care?
No. Children in foster care in North Carolina are covered by Medicaid through their county, which includes:
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- Medical care
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- Dental and vision services
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- Mental and behavioral health services
Foster parents may cover minor items like over-the-counter medications, but major medical expenses are not out of pocket.
Are there other resources for foster parents?
Yes. In addition to the stipend, foster parents may have access to:
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- Clothing closets and supply banks
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- Car seats, cribs, and beds
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- School and community resources
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- Ongoing training and caseworker support
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- Support groups and foster parent appreciation events
CHS helps connect families to these resources.
Does it cost money to adopt from foster care?
In most cases, adopting from foster care involves little to no cost for families working with CHS.
Are there financial supports after adoption?
Yes. Some children adopted from foster care may qualify for adoption assistance, which can include:
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- A monthly adoption subsidy (when eligible)
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- Continued Medicaid coverage for the child
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- Support services to help meet ongoing needs
Also youth who were adopted from NC foster care AFTER age 12 can qualify to attend an NC public university or community college with payment for tuition, fees, books, and housing through NC Reach. Youth who were adopted AFTER age 16 can qualify for a federal grant to cover college or vocational school up to $5,000 for the Education and Training Voucher Program (ETV).
CHS staff help families understand eligibility and available supports.
Is adoption assistance available for every adoption?
Not all adoptions qualify for adoption assistance. Eligibility depends on factors such as the child’s needs and circumstances. This is discussed in detail during the adoption process so families can make informed decisions.
Are there tax benefits for adopting?
Families who adopt may be eligible for federal adoption tax credits. CHS can provide general guidance and referrals, though families should consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
Foster Care vs. Adoption: Key Financial Differences
How is foster care different from adoption financially?
- Foster care includes a monthly reimbursement and Medicaid coverage while a child is in care.
- Adoption from foster care may include adoption assistance and Medicaid.
Both paths include support, training, and guidance from CHS.