Legislation now pending in the Illinois Senate aims to provide financial relief to foster families through a new tax credit to help offset the costs of care.
Senate Bill 2097 would create an income tax credit of up to $1,000 per foster child for qualified expenses incurred by foster parents caring for children placed through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
According to DCFS data, about 5,800 children are currently in foster care in Illinois. Advocates say stronger support systems are needed, noting that half of foster families leave within the first year and 36 percent of children experience two or more placements.
Under the proposal, families would qualify for the full credit after six months of care, with prorated benefits available for shorter placements. Any unused credit could also be carried forward for up to five years.
Supporters say the measure would help ease the financial burden on foster families and provide added stability for children in care.
Senate Bill 2097 was recently heard in the Senate Revenue Committee.
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