{"id":351847,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:03","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/family\/foster-care\/aging-out-of-foster-care.html"},"modified":"2025-03-25T15:50:28","modified_gmt":"2025-03-25T20:50:28","slug":"aging-out-of-foster-care","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/aging-out-of-foster-care.html","title":{"rendered":"Aging Out of Foster Care"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Aging Out of Foster Care<\/h1>\n
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\n By Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

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Foster care youth usually "age out" of the foster system when they turn 18. This means that the state is no longer responsible for their care and they often lose financial and housing assistance. After they age out of the system, these teenagers are fully responsible for their welfare. However, there are programs available to help these young people access safe housing, education, and more.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n

Aging out of foster care can be one of the most challenging changes that a young adult may face. Foster care youth often "age out" of the foster care system when they turn 18 years old or, in some states, 21.<\/p>\r\n

This article examines what "aging out" means, the support programs available, and resources to help you navigate this crucial period.<\/p>\r\n

What Is the Age Limit for Foster Care?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Foster care youth typically "age out" of the foster system when they turn 18. Many are still in high school. However, some states extend the age to up to 21, depending on the state law’s age of majority. Once you reach this age of majority, the state is no longer legally responsible for your care and support.<\/p>\r\n

For young people under foster care, turning 18 is a moment filled with uncertainty<\/a>. This often signals that their support system provided by the state will be suddenly removed, and they have to learn how to be on their own.<\/p>\r\n

Challenges Young Adults Face After Foster Care<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

When children age out of foster care, they become ineligible to receive state assistance through the foster care system. This includes crucial support like:<\/p>\r\n