If you’re adopting a child from the Texas foster care system, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help support your growing family. This assistance is commonly known as an adoption subsidy—and it can make a significant difference when providing care for a child with special needs or unique circumstances.
In this blog, we’ll explain how much the adoption subsidy is in Texas, who qualifies for it, and what additional benefits adoptive families may receive.
WHAT IS AN ADOPTION SUBSIDY?
An adoption subsidy is a monthly financial assistance payment provided by the state of Texas to help families who adopt children from the foster care system. These payments are not income or wages—they are meant to help offset the costs of caring for a child who may have additional emotional, medical, or developmental needs.
Texas offers this support through the Adoption Assistance Program, which is administered by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).
WHO QUALIFIES FOR AN ADOPTION SUBSIDY?
To be eligible for an adoption subsidy in Texas, the child must be considered “hard to place” or meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Six years old or older
- Part of a sibling group being adopted together
- Identified as part of a minority ethnic group (as defined by DFPS)
- Has a diagnosed physical, mental, or emotional disability
- Has a documented history of trauma or neglect
Eligibility is determined during the adoption process, and the subsidy agreement must be approved before the adoption is finalized.
HOW MUCH IS THE ADOPTION SUBSIDY IN TEXAS?
The amount of the monthly subsidy depends on the child’s age, level of care required, and specific needs. Below are general payment ranges:
| Level of Care | Monthly Subsidy Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Basic Level | $400 – $545 |
| Moderate Level | $545 – $667 |
| Specialized Level | $667 – $1,000+ |
Payments typically continue until the child turns 18. In certain cases—such as when the child has a disability or remains enrolled in school—assistance may extend until the child turns 21.
OTHER BENEFITS INCLUDED IN ADOPTION ASSISTANCE
Adoptive families may also receive:
1. Medicaid Coverage
Children adopted from foster care in Texas generally remain eligible for Medicaid, even after adoption.
2. Tuition and Fee Waiver
Adopted children may qualify for free tuition at public colleges and universities in Texas.
3. One-Time Reimbursement
Families can be reimbursed up to $1,200 per child for nonrecurring adoption-related costs, such as court fees, attorney fees, and travel expenses.
HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ADOPTION SUBSIDY
The adoption subsidy must be negotiated and approved before the final adoption hearing. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Complete a subsidy application through DFPS
- Provide documentation of the child’s eligibility
- Negotiate payment amount and terms with the caseworker
- Sign the Adoption Assistance Agreement before the adoption is finalized
- Begin receiving payments once the adoption is legally complete
It’s essential to work with an adoption attorney or experienced agency to ensure that all required steps are completed properly.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the subsidy taxable income?
No. Monthly adoption subsidies are not considered taxable income by the IRS.
Do I need to reapply each year?
No, but the state may periodically review the child’s eligibility and care level.
Can the subsidy be adjusted if the child’s needs change?
Yes. You can request a reassessment of the level of care if the child’s needs become more complex over time.
Can I receive a subsidy if I adopt privately or internationally?
No. Adoption subsidies are only available for children adopted through the Texas foster care system.
Key Takeaways: Adoption Subsidies for Texas Families
The adoption subsidy in Texas can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per month, depending on the child’s individual needs. Combined with benefits like Medicaid and college tuition waivers, this support helps families provide long-term stability and care for children who need it most.
If you’re thinking about adopting from foster care, understanding the financial resources available can help you make an informed and confident decision.
Ready to Learn More About Adoption Assistance?
Contact The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC to schedule a consultation. Our legal team is here to guide you through every step of the adoption process, including applying for adoption subsidies and securing the support your family deserves.
Bryan Fagan is a Texas family law attorney with a heart for adoption—inspired not just by his legal career, but by his own family story. Growing up in Atascocita with two adopted brothers, Bryan learned early the profound meaning of chosen family. His passion for justice was sparked by John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief, and he became the first lawyer in his family, balancing night classes at South Texas College of Law while caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s.
Today, Bryan brings that same dedication to his practice, guiding families through adoptions, custody disputes, divorces, and complex marital agreements. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, he combines elite legal expertise with genuine empathy—drawing from his roles as a husband, father of three, and advocate for families facing false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is actively involved in the Houston Bar Association’s Family Law Sector and statewide family law organizations. Whether finalizing an adoption or protecting parental rights, he believes the law should reflect the deepest values of home, commitment, and love.