Kansas Foster Care Reimbursement Calculator
Estimated Reimbursement Summary
*Disclaimer: These figures are estimates based on standard Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) provider rates. Final rates are determined by child welfare agencies (e.g., KVC or Cornerstones of Care) based on specific child assessments.
Understanding Kansas Foster Care Reimbursement Rates
In Kansas, foster care reimbursement is designed to cover the basic costs of caring for a child, including food, clothing, personal incidentals, and school supplies. This is not considered income or a salary, but rather a reimbursement for expenses incurred by the foster parents.
How Rates Are Determined
Kansas utilizes a tiered reimbursement system. The exact amount a foster family receives depends on several critical factors:
- Level of Care (LOC): This is the most significant factor. Children with higher medical or behavioral needs require more resources and time, resulting in a higher daily rate.
- Child's Age: Older children typically have higher expenses related to food, social activities, and clothing, which is reflected in the age-adjusted daily stipends.
- Agency Contracts: While the state sets baseline expectations, private agencies like KVC Kansas or Cornerstones of Care may have slight variations based on specific program requirements.
Breakdown of Care Levels
Standard Care: This applies to children who have typical developmental needs and do not require specialized therapeutic or medical intervention.
Moderate to Specialized Care: For children who may have experienced significant trauma, have physical disabilities, or require frequent therapy appointments and specialized behavioral management.
Intensive/Medical: Reserved for children who require 24/7 monitoring, specialized medical equipment, or intensive professional intervention.
Additional Financial Support in Kansas
Beyond the daily reimbursement rate, foster parents in Kansas often receive:
- Medical Coverage: Children in care are typically covered by KanCare (Kansas Medicaid).
- Clothing Allowance: Initial placement vouchers or annual stipends to help build a wardrobe.
- Child Care: Assistance for working foster parents to cover the cost of approved daycare services.