How Much Money Do You Need to Make to Be a Foster Parent?
How much money does it cost to foster a child? There are stipends that help parents fostering, sure, but many people wonder if you need to make a certain amount to even qualify to foster in the first place.
The short answer is yes, you do need to make a certain amount, but it varies depending on where you live and other factors like your family size. Many people qualify to foster, so the salary requirements aren’t usually that strict!
Salary Requirements for Foster Parents
Generally, there is usually no set salary requirement to foster. However, you must be able to show that you have enough income to support yourself/your family as well as the child. States usually require proof that your income is stable enough to cover your existing household expenses without relying on the foster care stipend. This means:
- Your income must be high enough to pay for rent/mortgage, utilities, food, transportation, and other basic needs.
- You must have enough left over to provide for a child’s needs (even if the stipend helps).
The exact amount needed depends on your location (cost of living varies), family size, and state requirements.
Want to know how much it costs to adopt from foster care and more? Read more here: How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Child?
How Much Does It Cost to Foster a Child Each Month?
The cost of living varies, which means there is no specific cost for fostering a child. The national average for raising a child in the United States is about $23,000, but this can go up depending on medical needs, childcare, and lifestyle choices. Per month, that can be about $400 to $3,000 or more.
You might receive a monthly stipend from the state or foster agency to help cover the costs of raising a foster child. This amount varies but is typically between $400 to $1,000 per month, depending on the child’s age, medical needs, and the state you live in.
Here’s a breakdown of common costs and what the stipend typically covers:
|
Expense |
Estimated Monthly Cost | Covered By Stipend? |
|
Food & Groceries |
$150 – $300 |
Yes (Partially) |
|
Clothing |
$50 – $150 | Yes (Partially) |
| School Supplies |
$25 – $75 |
Sometimes |
| Transportation |
$100 – $250 |
Sometimes |
|
Medical & Therapy |
Varies (Medicaid often covers these) |
Yes (Mostly) |
| Childcare | $200 – $800 |
Rarely |
The stipend usually does not cover all costs, so it’s important that your income is enough to fill in the gaps. For example, extracurricular activities, larger housing needs, and family outings may not be fully reimbursed.
Learn more about stipends here: Why Do Foster Parents Get Paid? Understanding the Heart Behind the Support
Can You Be a Foster Parent on a Limited Income?
Having a lower income doesn’t automatically disqualify you from fostering. Many states offer extra support for foster parents, including Medicaid for the child, WIC benefits (for young children), and local assistance programs. The key is ensuring that your income, combined with the stipend, is enough to provide a stable, safe environment.
Where to Find More Information
For more details on the financial aspects of fostering, check out these resources:
- Child Welfare Information Gateway – National guidelines and financial assistance information.
- National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) – Advice on budgeting and financial planning for foster families.
- Foster Care and Adoption Resource Center (FCARC) – Information on financial expectations and available support.
Final Thoughts
Fostering a child does not require you to be wealthy, but you must show financial stability. The stipend helps with costs, but foster parents should be prepared to cover some expenses out of pocket. If you’re interested in fostering, contact your local agency to learn about the specific financial requirements in your state.
