Texas Aging Out Checklist | American Foster Futures

Texas Aging Out Checklist (Texas Focus)

A comprehensive, compiled checklist based on the best available Texas resources (primarily the Texas Foster Youth Justice Project Guide, DFPS Transitional Living Services, and state programs). Use this as you prepare to leave foster care. Start early — ideally by age 14–16 through the PAL program.

1. Legal & Identification Documents

✓ Birth certificate (original)
✓ Social Security card
✓ Texas photo ID or driver's license
✓ Immunization/medical records
✓ Court documents and case summary
✓ Proof of foster care history (for benefits/tuition waiver)
✓ Any adoption or guardianship papers

2. Education

✓ High school diploma or GED
✓ Official transcripts
✓ Apply for Texas Tuition Waiver (DFPS verification)
✓ Complete FAFSA or TASFA
✓ Research scholarships (Chafee, local, etc.)
✓ College applications & housing
✓ Dual credit courses (can help activate waiver)

3. Housing & Independent Living

✓ Extended Foster Care (up to age 21/22 if in school, working 80+ hrs/mo, or training)
✓ Transitional Living Stipend / PAL benefits
✓ Supervised Independent Living (SIL) programs
✓ Aftercare housing support through DFPS/providers
✓ Public housing / Section 8 applications
✓ Emergency shelter or transitional housing options
✓ Plan for roommates or shared housing

4. Health, Benefits & Finances

✓ Medicaid coverage (extended to age 26 for former foster youth)
✓ Medical, dental, vision, and mental health records
✓ Chafee Foster Care Independence Program funds
✓ Bank account & direct deposit setup
✓ Credit report & building credit
✓ SSI/SSDI or other benefits if eligible
✓ Life skills training (budgeting, cooking, etc.) via PAL

5. Employment & Career

✓ Resume and interview preparation
✓ Job training or vocational programs
✓ References from caseworkers, teachers, employers
✓ Work history documentation
✓ Career counseling through workforce centers

6. Support Network & Legal Rights

✓ Connect with PAL caseworker / aftercare provider
✓ Mentor or supportive adult identified
✓ Texas Foster Youth Justice Project: (877) 313-3688 or texasfosteryouth.org
✓ Know your rights in extended care and benefits
✓ 211 Texas for local resources
✓ Healthcare proxy / advance directives if needed
✓ Plan for transportation (bus passes, driver's license)

Key Texas Resources:
• DFPS Transitional Living Services: dfps.texas.gov
• Texas Foster Youth Justice Project Aging Out Guide (highly recommended, free PDF): texasfosteryouth.org
• Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Program through your DFPS caseworker
• Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for education benefits

Resources are provided for informational purposes. Always verify details with official Texas agencies (DFPS) and your caseworker. Contact us for help connecting to services.