Bill > SB624

This bill, known as the Foster Outreach and Support for Tax Education Readiness (FOSTER) Act, requires the California Department of Social Services to issue comprehensive guidance to county welfare and juvenile probation departments by July 30, 2026, to help nonminor dependents (former foster youth between 18-21 years old) file state and federal income tax returns and access the foster youth tax credit. The guidance must be updated at least every two years and include information such as tax credit eligibility requirements, outreach strategies, resources from the Internal Revenue Service, and strategies for communicating tax filing information. Additionally, county welfare and juvenile probation departments must annually mail information to nonminor dependents between November 1 and January 31, detailing the foster youth tax credit, eligibility requirements, potential other tax credits they might qualify for, and resources for free tax preparation assistance. The bill recognizes the challenges faced by former foster youth in navigating tax filing and aims to provide them with comprehensive support and information to access available tax benefits. By mandating this outreach and guidance, the bill seeks to improve financial literacy and support for nonminor dependents transitioning out of the foster care system.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB624