Do Grandparents Get Money for Adopting Grandchildren?

As a Georgia grandparent raising your grandchildren, and contemplating adopting them, you may be wondering “Do grandparents get money for adopting grandchildren?”

The short answer is: maybe. This is because in order to qualify for adoption assistance, you’ll need to first be your grandchildren’s foster parent, and then adopt them from foster care if their parents do not complete their reunification plan.

Grandparents can indeed receive financial assistance if they formally apply to become their grandchild’s foster parent.

The subsidy they receive will be equivalent to the certified relative caregiver and foster care reimbursement rate, which can range from $7,460 to $8,500 a year.

Then, if the parents end up having their rights terminated, the grandparents could petition the court to adopt their grandchildren.

If their grandchildren qualify, they could also receive adoption assistance, based on the needs of the children.

What Benefits Are Available for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren in Georgia?

In Georgia, as well as other states, there are several benefits available to grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

The Adoption Tax Credit is one such benefit that can help offset the costs of adoption.

This tax credit is refundable, meaning it can provide a financial boost even to those who may not have a large tax liability.

Additionally, grandparents might be eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) payments for their grandchild without a review of the grandparents’ income and resources.

It’s important to note that these benefits are contingent upon various factors, including the caregiver’s income and the legal status of the caregiving arrangement.

Government Assistance for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Government assistance programs designed to help parents and relatives afford the costs associated with raising children are also available.

These include adoption and guardianship assistance, which can provide financial aid to those who adopt or become legal guardians of their grandchildren.

Furthermore, there are community programs and services funded by various grantmakers that aim to support grandparents raising grandchildren.

These services can include affordable housing, legal and custody help, and other forms of financial assistance.

Final Thoughts

Grandparents who adopt or become legal caregivers for their grandchildren can access various forms of financial assistance.

However, it’s crucial to consult with a legal professional and the appropriate state agency to understand the requirements and processes involved in accessing these benefits.

Legal guidance can help ensure that grandparents are fully informed about their rights and the resources available to them as they take on the responsibility of raising their grandchildren.