In many cases, you can stay in care until you are 21. You can do this if you came into the system before age 18 and if you are in what is called a program of treatment or instruction. If you stay in care, you might remain in your foster home or group home, or you might move to a supervised independent living (SIL) or transitional living placement (TLP).
A course of instruction can include high school, college, community college, training or vocational program, a GED program, or any other educational program. Treatment can include mental health or other treatment to meet your specific needs.
If you stay in care, you can continue to receive placement and case management services through your county child welfare agency.
This can help you to get:
Many 18 year olds want to be on their own and out of the system. Just think about it before you leave and make sure you have a realistic plan—including a place to live and an income that will cover your expenses—before you sign yourself out. Once you leave care after turning 18, you cannot re-enter even if you are experiencing difficulties.
You should talk to your lawyer and tell him/her that you would like to stay in care and why. You should also appear in court so you can make sure the judge in your case knows that you want to stay in care. Ultimately, it is the judge’s decision whether you can stay in care past age 18.
Last updated: Summer 2007
