Foster Care Support in Georgia: How Much is the Stipend?

There are over 11,000 children in foster care throughout the state of Georgia. That’s thousands of children who urgently need a place to call home — and the foster parents who make that happen.

Stepping into the role of a foster parent offers a unique opportunity to make a profound difference in a child's life. Foster parents provide the stability, affection, and nurturing environment they need to thrive.

While becoming a foster parent is rewarding, it comes with financial considerations. The costs associated with raising a child — covering necessities like food, clothing, educational materials, and activities — can add up quickly.

• Like many other states, Georgia provides a monthly stipend to support foster parents with these expenses.
• This financial assistance ensures children in foster care can access essential resources for a well-rounded and healthy upbringing.
• However, it's important to understand that this stipend is not an income or a salary. It’s a form of support to help cover the child's needs.

Let’s dive into Georgia’s monthly stipend and what you need to know: 

How to Apply For a Foster Care Payment in Georgia 

Before discussing the specifics of Georgia's foster care stipend system, it's important to understand how the payment process works. 

Getting set up for payments is a straightforward process that begins when you're approved as a foster parent.

Setting Up Your Payments

The payment setup process begins after you complete your foster parent training and receive your first placement. Your case manager will guide you through the necessary paperwork, which includes:

• Direct deposit authorization forms
• Tax documentation
• Monthly invoice setup

Georgia uses a comprehensive invoice system to track and process payments. Each month, foster parents submit an invoice that documents the per diem rate, clothing allowances, and any additional incidentals for each child in their care. 

Your resource development case manager will provide detailed training on accurately completing these invoices.

Required Documentation

To ensure smooth processing of your foster care stipends, you'll need to maintain several important documents:

• Monthly invoices for each child in your care
• Records of any additional expenses
• Updated banking information for direct deposit
• Current contact information with your case manager

Understanding Payment Timing

Georgia operates on a 30-day reimbursement system, which means there's typically a one-month delay between submitting your invoice and receiving payment. Here's how the timeline usually works:

• Invoices submitted are paid the following month
• Payments are typically processed via direct deposit on the 15th of each month
• First payments usually arrive approximately 45 days after your first placement

What Influences the Foster Care Stipend in Georgia?

Two main factors influence the foster care stipend in Georgia:

1. The child's age: Georgia’s stipend to foster parents changes depending on the child’s age.
   • As children grow and age, their needs change — and the costs often grow, too!
   • Older children and teens may require different care and resources than younger children. Therefore, the stipend changes based on these needs.

• Their specific needs: Some children in care have special medical needs that may require different treatment plans and cost a little more. 

• Foster parents in Georgia caring for children with complex medical conditions may receive more daily. 
• This additional money helps with the necessary care and attention for a better quality of life.

Foster Care Stipend Rates in Georgia

In Georgia, the stipend rates are paid on a per diem basis. However, the amount will depend on the organization you partner with and the factors discussed in the section above. 

• There aren’t any set amounts for parents in Georgia. You can discuss this with a foster care organization or your caseworker to get the most accurate rates
• They can let you know how much your per diem will be based on your child's needs

What Can the Foster Care Stipend Be Used For?

As a foster parent, you may wonder what expenses Georgia's monthly stipend should cover. 

We know that raising a child comes with many costs, and understanding how to use your stipend can help you provide the best care possible.

Daily Living Expenses

The monthly stipend helps cover all the daily expenses of caring for a child. Think about your regular grocery trips, where you'll pick up healthy foods and snacks. 

You'll also use it for personal care items like toothpaste, shampoo, and other hygiene products. The stipend covers school supplies, too, from notebooks to pencils, helping your child feel prepared and confident in class.

Housing and Home Needs

Children in foster care need a comfortable, safe space to call home. 

Take it from Elizabeth Murrell, a Maryland foster parent, who beautifully outlines the importance of the home:

“Our home is a place where you can be yourself, where your thoughts and feelings will be valued, and where you will be treated with kindness and respect.”

The stipend helps cover their portion of household expenses, like utilities and laundry costs. You can also use it to make their bedroom comfortable with proper furniture and bedding. 

Remember, creating a welcoming space helps children in foster care feel more at home.

Activities and Social Life

Every child deserves to experience normal childhood activities!

Whether joining a sports team, taking art classes, or going on field trips, the stipend helps make these experiences possible. You can use it for birthday celebrations, after-school programs, and other activities that help your child build friendships and discover new interests.

Educational Support

While schools provide many basics, sometimes kids need extra support to thrive. The stipend can help with additional school supplies, educational materials, or resources for homework help. 

If your child needs specific items for school projects or activities, the stipend is there to help.

Are There Any Other Financial Benefits Foster Parents in Georgia Receive? 

For foster parents in Georgia, additional financial support options exist outside of the per diem. 

The best example of this is the Georgia Families 360 program. This program provides better access to healthcare services for children of all ages. 

Georgia also offers a clothing allowance, which is important. Clothing costs can add up quickly, especially for growing toddlers and teens. With thoughtful budgeting, it costs between $800 and $1,200 a year to clothe a teen, so every little bit helps.

Don’t hesitate to ask your organization or caseworker for other financial support information. For example, Mentor Foster Care, a part of Sevita’s companies, offers support to foster parents in many different ways, including:

• Fire extinguishers
• Lockboxes
• CO2 detectors
• Help with the cost of home repairs (depending on the type)
• Help with the cost of first aid/CPR courses
• Help with the cost of animal vaccinations

All of this is part of helping prepare foster parents for their home inspections and meeting the guidelines set by the state.

ELIGIBILITY QUIZ

Check Your Foster Care Eligibility In Two Minutes

Skip the endless research and confusion. This easy self-assessment reveals if you meet Georgia's basic foster parent requirements — and gives you the clarity you've been looking for.

Making the Most of Your Georgia Foster Care Payment

Being a foster parent is a journey of love, care, and, yes — practical planning! 

While Georgia provides a monthly stipend to help with expenses, making the most of this support can help you create the best possible environment for children in care. 

Let's explore practical ways to manage these resources effectively, drawing from the experience of foster parents like you.

Smart Budgeting for Foster Parents

Creating a budget might seem overwhelming initially. However, it's one of the best ways to ensure your stipend stretches to meet all your child's needs. 

Start by tracking basic expenses like food, clothing, and school supplies for the first few months. This will help you understand your typical monthly spending and plan accordingly. 

Many experienced foster parents buy in bulk or watch for sales on essential items. This helps them save money for special activities or unexpected needs.

Planning for Special Occasions

Birthdays, holidays, and school events are important milestones in every child's life. 

Consider setting aside a small portion of your monthly stipend for these special occasions. This way, you'll be prepared to celebrate these moments without stress. 

Some foster parents create a simple savings plan, putting aside a little each month for school pictures, field trips, or summer activities.

Getting Creative with Resources

Your stipend can go further when you know where to find deals and support. 

Many communities offer free or discounted activities for children in care, from museum passes to sports programs. Local libraries often have free educational programs and activities. 

Don't forget to ask your caseworker about additional resources. They often know about community programs and supports that can help stretch your budget.

Keeping Simple Records

While you don't need a complicated system, keeping basic notes about your expenses helps in several ways. 

A simple notebook or phone app can track your spending, making it easier to plan for future months. It also helps you notice if certain expenses are higher than expected. This helps you adjust your planning or request additional support if needed.

Remember, this money is meant to help you provide a nurturing environment for your child. If you're ever unsure whether something is covered, contact your caseworker. They will help you make the best decisions and ensure you have the support you need.

Your role as a foster parent is incredibly important. The stipend is just one way Georgia supports you in providing the care these children need. Focus on using it to create positive experiences and meet your child's needs, and you'll be on the right track.

Frequently Asked Questions About Foster Care Stipends in Georgia

Whether you're starting your foster care journey or you've been caring for children for years, understanding the financial aspects is important. 

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about foster care stipends to help you feel more confident:

When do I receive my first stipend payment? 

After welcoming a child into your home, you'll typically receive your first payment within 45 days. 

Georgia uses a 30-day reimbursement system, which means payments are processed the month after you submit your invoice. Your caseworker can help you set up direct deposit and explain the exact timing for your situation.

How are stipend payments made? 

Payments are usually made through direct deposit. 

You'll have access to a web portal to track your payments and access important documents like your 1099 forms.

Do I receive stipends for multiple children in care? 

Yes! If you're caring for multiple children, you'll receive a separate stipend for each child. Each stipend is calculated based on that child's age and specific needs.

What if the stipend doesn't cover all of my child's needs? 

If you're facing extraordinary expenses or your child has special needs that require additional support, talk to your caseworker. Georgia offers additional assistance programs and resources to help cover these extra costs.

Will the stipend amount change over time? 

Yes, legislation periodically adjusts stipend amounts to keep pace with living costs. Additionally, the amount changes as children age since older children typically have different needs and expenses.

Can I receive the stipend if I'm related to the child (kinship care)? 

Yes; as a kinship caregiver in Georgia, you can receive the same stipend as other foster parents. However, you must complete the required approval process, and the child will be placed through DFCS. 

This support is available to help you provide the best care possible for your family member. Your caseworker can help you become an approved kinship caregiver and set up your stipend payments.

Learn More About the Stipend in Georgia and Other Important Foster Care Topics

If you're in Georgia and want to become a foster parent, you don’t have to start your journey alone.

Get the support you need every step of the way with The Beginners Guide to Foster Care. You’ll get an understanding of foster care basics, actionable tips to connect with children in care, and much more.

Get your free guide today!