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Texas Foster Youth Justice Project
  • Aging Out of Foster Care
    • Aging Out Guide
    • Benefits and Eligibility
  • Resources
    • Living Without Family Support
    • Resources for Youth
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Free Legal Help for Current & Former Foster Youth call toll free 877-313-3688

  • Aging Out of Foster Care
    • Aging Out Guide
    • Benefits and Eligibility
  • Resources
    • Living without Family Support
    • Resources for Youth
    • Resources for Advocates
  • About
  • Get Help
  • Donate

Aging Out Guide

Getting Ready to Live on Your Own

As the time for you to leave foster care gets closer, you may feel anxious and have many questions—such as where you will live, how you will support yourself, how you can continue to go to school, and what jobs are available. These worries are normal and there is support available to help you get ready to live on your own.

home / Aging Out Guide / Getting Ready to Live on Your Own / Health Care Benefits

Health Care Benefits

If you are in DFPS custody and receive Medicaid when you turn 18, you qualify for free health insurance until you turn 26. When you leave foster care when you are 18 or older, you should be automatically put on Former Foster Care Children’s (FFCC) Medicaid. But you will have to take steps to stay on it until you turn 26. For more information, see Medicaid and Other Public Benefits.

In This Section

  • Extended Foster Care
  • Returning to Extended Foster Care
  • Supervised Independent Living
  • Trial Independence
  • Limited Placement Options for Older Youth in Foster Care
  • Leaving Foster Care
  • Extended Court Jurisdiction
  • Circle of Support
  • Planning for Your Life after Foster Care
  • Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Program
  • Independent Living Skills Assessment
  • Life Skills Training Class
  • Financial Assistance
  • Health Care Benefits
  • Case Management for Aged Out Foster Youth
  • Living with Biological Parents When Aging Out of Foster Care
  • Educational, Vocational and Supportive Services
  • Transition Planning Assistance
  • Other Preparation for Adult Living Program Activities
  • Transition Centers
  • Contact a Transition Center Near You
  • Other Resources

Related Information

  • Free Driver Education Program Flyer (for applicants/youth)

  • State College Tuition Waiver

  • Education and Training Voucher

  • Brief Overview of Transitional Living Services

  • Transitional Living Services Resource Guide

  • Aging Out Guide
  • Benefits and Eligibility
  • Living Without Family Support
  • Resources for Youth
  • Resources for Advocates
  • About
  • Get Help
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