How much does it cost monthly to care for a foster child?

JoyaSee

The average is $650 to $850 per month. Where I live, and how I shop, that is enough for expenses, but your area may be more expensive. Talk to your Department of Human Services and see if you qualify.

Tri-Harder

Depends on where you live. Here, it covers VERY little of the actual costs of a child's needs. And it's for basics like food and clothing, not extras. Basically, plan to take on all the expenses. Plan to afford the child's care all on your own. Then if the stipend helps, great. If not, no loss.

Anonymous

It will cover a decent amount of the expenses, but not all. The amount you are given depends on the age and needs (such as special needs) of the child. There is no certain amount of income required, but you will have to provide proof of adequate income to meet the needs of your family and any future foster child you’ll have in your home. You won’t make any profit as far as $ goes from fostering, that’s for certain, so they want to be sure you can still provide for them even without the monthly stipend.

PAMELA

Ask social services, you will be investigated by them before you can have a child.

Exoplanet

Know how to add and subtract? You need to use those skills.