A monthly subsidy may be paid to the guardian on behalf of the related child, based on the child’s financial needs. 

The amount of the monthly subsidy shall equal the Department’s prevailing foster care rate that is applicable to the child’s age and special needs, less the child’s assets and income as determined by an asset test. (See below).  

Note:  Any additional payments which were made on a monthly or as needed basis while the child was in foster care (for example, day care, clothing, mileage reimbursement), will not be paid under the subsidized guardianship program. 

If the child has no assets or other sources of income, payments of less than the full foster care rate may be made if the guardian indicates that a lesser amount will be adequate to provide for the care of the child. 

If the child’s needs are medically complex, a current DCF-2101, “Certification of a Child’s Complex Medical Needs”, must be submitted to verify the need for the medically complex rate. 

An asset test shall consider any assets and income available to the child, including, but not limited to, the following: 

·          Social Security benefits

·          Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)

·          child support* (See note below)

·          life insurance or other death benefits from or through a parent

·          interest income

·          all other federal and state assistance and benefit programs

·          any other sources; e.g., a court settlement. 

Note:  The amount of child support will not be deducted from the foster care rate if the Bureau of Collection Services will continue to bill for and collect these monies from the parent.  The child’s Social Worker must notify the Bureau of Collection Services (by e-mail) when guardianship is transferred to the relative. 

The child’s Social Worker shall verify the above information with appropriate sources, such as:

·          DCF Revenue Enhancement Unit

·      Bureau of Collection Services.