Foster Care Referrals for Child Support Services
Child support payments may be retained by the state as reimbursement for the cost of a child placed in foster care. However, studies show that requiring child support payments from parents of a child recently placed in foster care hinders reunification efforts. The Administration for Children and Families recently updated guidance to IV-E agencies to not seek child support except in rare circumstances. This guidance allows states to define when a referral to child support is appropriate, whether and how to “undo” existing referrals, how to make up any perceived lost revenue and to improve interagency communication. A&M helps states analyze data and develop actionable recommendations that promote collaboration between child welfare and child support and improve family reunification.
