INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Mike Braun on Wednesday signed an executive order directing the Indiana Department of Child Services to preserve federal earned benefits for eligible youth in foster care.
The executive order ensures that federal survivors’ benefits belonging to children in care are conserved for the child and not used to reimburse the state for the cost of care. These benefits may include payments administered by the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the Railroad Retirement Board.
Governor Braun also signed a joint proclamation with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families affirming Indiana’s commitment to “A Home for Every Child” – improving child safety, permanency, and well-being outcomes through a new Program Improvement Plan.
Governor Braun was joined for the signing by Dr. Alex Adams, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Administration for Children and Families.
“It is very simple, survivor benefits belong to the child as intended, not the government. This executive order improves DCS services for Hoosier families and makes sure those dollars are protected and used to support young Hoosiers as they prepare for adulthood,” said Governor Mike Braun.
“During National Foster Care Month, Governor Braun is demonstrating real leadership by prioritizing and protecting the best interests of foster youth. The Trump Administration is thrilled to welcome Indiana as the 20th state to join ‘A Home for Every Child’ and celebrates its efforts to preserve Social Security survivor benefits that rightfully belong to children in state care. We are grateful for the partnership, look forward to improving outcomes for Indiana’s children and families, and hope today’s actions will inspire other states to join ACF’s movement that continues to elevate the needs of foster youth over government bureaucracy,” said Administration for Children and Families Assistant Secretary Alex J. Adams.
The executive order requires DCS to screen children in care for eligibility, provide written notice to the child and appropriate representatives, identify an independent representative payee whenever possible, and preserve funds in appropriate accounts such as ABLE accounts, personal needs accounts, or other savings vehicles.
The order also directs DCS to provide annual accountings, financial literacy education beginning no later than age 14, and procedures for youth to request distribution of funds while in care. Upon leaving DCS custody, conserved funds will be released according to applicable federal rules.
The executive order takes effect immediately, with agencies directed to comply as soon as practicable.
May is National Foster Care Month. Governor Braun recently expanded parental leave for state employees to include foster parents, strengthening Indiana’s commitment to supporting foster families and children in need.
The full executive order can be found here.
