What is an Adoption Subsidy? 

The federal Title IV-E Adoption Assistance Program is intended to provide permanency for children with special needs in public foster care by requiring and assisting states in offering ongoing financial and medical assistance, also known as an adoption subsidy, to adoptive families.

Adoption subsidy programs vary significantly from state to state. Differences include the definition of special needs, eligibility requirements and basic monthly subsidy rates.

In New York State, monthly adoption subsidy payments continue until the child is 21, unless the adoptive parent is no longer legally responsible for the support of the child or the child is no longer receiving any support from the adoptive parent. 

The adoption subsidy is supposed to follow the child. Adoptive parents no longer providing support are not entitled to the subsidy and are to notify their local providers of the change. The “child” may request to have the subsidy received by another adult proving support of themselves if they are over 18.

The income of the person(s) adopting a special needs child cannot be considered in determining whether or not to enter into a subsidy agreement. Income may only be considered for the purpose of determining the amount of the monthly payment.

Recently, advocates and the media have raised concern about the adoption subsidy program. Concerns raised focus on the lack of oversight and accountability, particularly in situations where the adoptive parent has abandoned their child and/or where the parent is no longer financially responsible for the child. Media coverage and advocacy have focused on problems in New York City.  The Coalition has also learned of similar issues in Erie County and, in 2015, issued a statement about the issue. To read it, click here.

Below you will find additional resources and information about subsidy in New York, as well as federal and national resources, including information about subsidy programs in all fifty states.

New York State Subsidy Information and Resources

Federal and National Information and Resources