9. How much does it cost to be a foster or adoptive parent?

The monthly reimbursement provided to foster families is a combination of federal, state, or county funds. It is for child care-related costs such as food, clothing, recreation, transportation, and housing cost. In extraordinary circumstances, special rates may be reimbursed to foster families who care for children with exceptional needs, as in the case of medical needs that require providing a child with specialized care, food, clothing, or equipment.

The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) developed rates for the 24-hour residential child-care reimbursements (foster care) program operated by DFPS. HHSC authorized DFPS to implement these recommended payment rates effective September 1, 2009.