How long can a child stay in foster care in Texas?

In Texas, a child typically ages out of foster care at 18, but under specific educational circumstances, they may remain in care until their 20th birthday.

Understanding Foster Care Duration in Texas

The length of time a child remains in foster care in Texas is primarily determined by their age and educational progress. The primary goal of foster care is to provide a safe, temporary environment while working towards a permanent living arrangement, such as reunification with family, adoption, or another planned path to adulthood.

Standard Age-Out for Youth

For many youth in Texas, the standard age for transitioning out of foster care, often referred to as "aging out," is 18 years old. At this point, they are legally considered adults and generally move out of the state's direct care system.

Extended Care for Educational Pursuits

Texas recognizes the importance of continued support for youth who are still completing their secondary education. There is a specific provision that allows eligible youth to remain in foster care beyond the age of 18. This extended support can be vital for their stability and educational attainment.

To qualify for continued paid foster care until their 20th birthday, a youth must meet one of the following educational criteria:

• They are scheduled to graduate from high school.
• They are scheduled to complete their Individual Education Plan (IEP).

This provision is designed to ensure that youth have the necessary stability and support to complete their secondary education, thereby fostering a smoother and more successful transition into independent adulthood.

Texas Foster Care Age Limits at a Glance

For a clear overview of the age limits in Texas foster care, refer to the table below:

For more comprehensive information on foster care programs and support services for youth transitioning out of care, you can visit the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) website.