National Foster Care Month: Supporting Youth as They Transition to Adulthood
Every May, we recognize National Foster Care Month, a time to raise awareness about the experiences of children and youth in foster care. We also honor the families, caregivers, case workers, advocates, and communities who support them.
For young people transitioning out of foster care, the move into adulthood can come with both opportunities and challenges. Access to reliable information, financial resources, and trusted support systems can make an important difference during this transition.
At Social Security, we’re committed to helping young people understand the benefits and services available to them.
Helping Youth Build a Strong Foundation
Youth in foster care may qualify for Social Security benefits based on their own circumstances or a parent’s work record. Understanding these benefits, and knowing how to access them, can help young adults plan for their future.
Some youth may qualify for:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if they have a qualifying disability and limited income or resources.
- Survivor benefits if a parent dies. Under certain circumstances, we can also pay benefits to married children, stepchildren, adopted children, grandchildren, and step grandchildren
- Child benefits through a parent who receives Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
As young people prepare for adulthood, having access to financial information and important records can help them make informed decisions about education, employment, housing, and healthcare.
Our Youth Toolkit is here to help
We created a Youth Toolkit, six publications, to help young people, families, caregivers, educators, and advocates learn about programs and services that support the transition to adulthood.
The toolkit includes information about:
- Qualifying for Social Security benefits after age 18
- Employment supports
- Financial literacy
- Healthcare considerations
- Education and vocational resources
- Planning for independence
It’s designed to help youth understand their options and connect them with tools that support long-term success.
You can explore the Youth Toolkit today.
Supporting Foster Youth Beyond May
National Foster Care Month reminds us that support matters, not just during times of transition, but every step along the way.
Mentors, relatives, foster families, teachers, social workers, and community members all play a role in helping young people feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Helping a young person navigate important information or connect them to available resources can have a lasting impact on their future. To learn more, read our publication, What You need to Know About Your Supplemental Security Income When You Turn 18. Help us spread the word by sharing with your family, friends, and on social media.