33% Of Foster Children Receive Federal Title IV-E Maintenance Payments, Dropping From 40%

The share of children in foster care eligible for and receiving federal Title IV-E foster care maintenance payments declined from 40% in federal fiscal year 2019 to 33% in 2024. Children who are not eligible for Title IV-E reimbursement are supported through other funding sources, most commonly state funds.  

The foster care maintenance payments cover costs including food, clothing, shelter, daily supervision, school supplies, personal incidentals, liability insurance, and reasonable transportation for family visitation and to allow a child to remain in the school attended at the time of placement.

Eligibility for federal Title IV-E foster care . . .