Youth who were in out-of-home placement at age 18 may be eligible for medical coverage until the last day of the month they turn 26. Limited vision and dental coverage are included until age 21.

To be eligible, youth must:

• Have been in DCF, KDOC-CBS, or Tribal Authority care at age 18 or exited custody through SOUL Family Legal Permanency after age 16

• Be a Kansas resident

• Apply through the KanCare Clearinghouse

Youth who move out of state may still be eligible for coverage depending on the state and age at exit from care.

The Independent Living Subsidy provides monthly financial assistance to help with living expenses based on individual need. Eligibility continues until age 21.

Youth must:

• Have aged out of DCF custody, KDOC-CBS, or Tribal Authority care at age 18 or exited through SOUL Family Legal Permanency after age 16

• Be a Kansas resident

• Be financially responsible for their living expenses

• Have a plan to obtain a high school diploma, GED, or full-time employment

Living alone, with roommates, or in a family setting are all acceptable. Marital status does not impact eligibility.

Education & Training Voucher (ETV) funds help eligible youth pay for post-secondary education or certified training programs, including vocational schools, community colleges, and universities.

Key details:

• Youth may participate for up to five years, with eligibility ending at age 26

• Up to $5,000 per year, based on need

• Youth must be a high school graduate or have a GED

• An open DCF Independent Living case is required

Youth who were adopted or entered guardianship after age 16 may also be eligible.

This program waives tuition and certain fees at eligible Kansas Board of Regents institutions.

Youth may qualify if they:

• Were in DCF custody and in foster care at age 18

• Were adopted or entered guardianship at or after age 16

• Graduated from high school or earned a GED while in DCF custody

Students must maintain good academic standing. The waiver generally ends the semester the student turns 23.

Chafee funds help former foster youth build independence and self-sufficiency. Funds may be used for:

• Education and GED completion

• Employment preparation

• Daily living skills

• Budgeting and money management

• Transportation

• Clothing

Additional Chafee-funded assistance may be available for limited rent support, household start-up items, and vehicle repairs. Eligibility generally ends at age 21 and is subject to funding availability.

Youth should contact their regional DCF Independent Living Coordinator to discuss eligibility and request services.
Learn more at IL.dcf.ks.gov or call 785-296-4653.

These programs are administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). For full eligibility details and official guidance, you can review the resources below:

• Independent Living Self-Sufficiency Program Overview (PDF)

• Kansas Permanency & Education Benefits Comparison Chart (PDF)