DCF Foster & Adoptive Families
Effective October 1, 2026, all Care 4 Kids application, renewal and case management services for foster and adopted families have transitioned to Care 4 Kids. This change will result in a process that is simpler, more efficient, and more convenient for both families and providers.
This change will allow providers to:
•Work directly with parents and Care 4 Kids throughout the application and renewal process
•Receive direct assistance and support related to Care 4 Kids benefits
•Work directly with parents and Care 4 Kids throughout the application and renewal process
• Have the ability to confirm parents’ case status and eligibility start date (date application was received) directly with Care 4 Kids
Connecticut DCF Foster Children:
• Foster parents are not required to be participating in an activity to be eligible for Care 4 Kids.
• Foster parents will submit applications, redeterminations and Parent Provider Agreement forms directly to Care 4 Kids using the Care 4 Kids Parent Portal.
• Care 4 Kids will communicate directly with the foster parents and the provider.
*Please note: Foster children from a different state who have been placed in a foster home in Connecticut are not eligible for Care 4 Kids.
Connecticut DCF Adopted Children (adopted less than one year):
• Adoptive parents are not required to be participating in an activity to be eligible for Care 4 Kids.
• Adoptive parents will submit applications, redeterminations and Parent Provider Agreement forms directly to Care 4 Kids using the Care 4 Kids Parent Portal.
• Care 4 Kids will communicate directly with the adoptive parents and the provider.
Connecticut DCF Adopted Children (adopted one year or more)
• DCF will no longer be financially responsible for child care one year from the date of adoption.
• Adopted children will remain eligible for Care 4 Kids with no family fee through the end of their eligibility period.
• At redetermination, the adoptive parent(s) must be in an approved activity and meet all other Care 4 Kids income and eligibility requirements.
Subsidized Guardianship:
• Subsidized guardians are not required to be participating in an activity to be eligible for Care 4 Kids. If the guardian is not in an activity, the child will be eligible for up to a half-time certificate.
• Subsidized guardians are responsible for submitting all Care 4 Kids documents.