Legal Definitions - aging-out

Aging-out

The term "aging-out" describes the point at which a young person who has been under the legal care of the state, typically in the foster care system, reaches the age where they are no longer legally eligible for state-provided support and services. While this often coincides with reaching the age of majority (usually 18), some states offer extended eligibility, allowing young adults to remain in foster care or receive transitional support up to age 21, particularly if they are still in school, have specific needs, or require more time to achieve independence.

• Example 1: Transition to Independence at 18

  Scenario: Maria has been in foster care since she was 10 years old. On her 18th birthday, she celebrates with her foster family, knowing that this marks her "aging-out" from the foster care system. She has been preparing for this transition by participating in independent living programs and has secured a part-time job and a shared apartment with a friend.

  Explanation: This example illustrates the most common instance of aging-out, where a young person reaches the legal age of adulthood (18) and their eligibility for state-funded foster care services officially ends, prompting their transition to independent living.

• Example 2: Extended Support for College Students

  Scenario: David turned 18 while still in foster care, but he was accepted into a local community college. Because his state has a policy allowing extended foster care services for young adults pursuing higher education, David is able to continue receiving housing assistance and a stipend until he completes his associate's degree or turns 21, whichever comes first.

  Explanation: This demonstrates how some jurisdictions provide an extension beyond the typical age of majority, recognizing that continued support can be crucial for young adults who are still in school and working towards self-sufficiency.

• Example 3: Gradual Transition for Vulnerable Youth

  Scenario: Sarah, who has a mild developmental disability, turned 18 while in foster care. Her social worker advocated for her to remain in an extended foster care program until age 21. This allowed Sarah to continue receiving case management, life skills training, and support in finding appropriate adult disability services and stable housing, ensuring a more gradual and supported transition to adulthood.

  Explanation: This scenario highlights how "aging-out" can be managed with extensions for young people with specific vulnerabilities or needs, allowing them additional time and resources to prepare for independent living and access adult support systems.