Make Sure Youth Know
Their Rights
Youth in foster care have rights that protect their safety and well-being. Knowing how to use these rights helps youth advocate for themselves.
Why it Matters
Without strong protections, young people can face unfair treatment, barriers to success, and a lack of support. Federal law requires states provide youth in foster care with a list of their rights related to education, health, visitation, court participation, safety and access to vital documents.
These rights ensure access to important resources and family connections while preventing discrimination and harm. Understanding these rights is key to creating a safer, more stable foster care experience and ensuring every young person has the chance to thrive.
Quick Facts
- Federal law requires states to provide youth (14+) with a list of their rights in foster care. (Public Law 113-183)
- Federal law also requires that states must have youth sign a document saying the they have received these rights and it’s been explained in a way that is understandable. (Public Law 113-183)
- Many states have a Foster Youth Bill of Rights created through law. Several states have created agency policies listing youth rights. (National Association of Counsel for Children)
“Did I know my rights? No I did not. The only time I was informed of anything was when FosterClub came to my state back in 2016 — and that was the first time I was educated on any of this stuff.
— Anthony Angell, 3 years in Oregon and Idaho foster care systems
Tools You Can Use
- What are Your Rights While in Foster Care? – A helpful overview of youth rights in foster care, including education, placements, and legal protections.
- Your Case, Your Rights– Learn about your legal rights in court and how to advocate for yourself in the foster care system.
- FosterClub’s Help Hub – Find tools, guides, and support for youth in care, from financial aid to mental health resources.
How We're Working on This Issue
Priorities on Supporting Youth Rights
The National Foster Care Youth & Alumni Policy Council, made up of young people with lived experience in foster care, shares priorities and recommendations with federal policymakers to educate on the importance of rights and protections for youth in care.
Support the Federal Foster Youth Bill of Rights Resolution
FosterClub celebrated the introduction of a bipartisan resolution recognizing the rights of youth in foster care. This resolution outlines 10 key areas of foster youth rights. Read here.
LEx Leaders Met with Federal Leadership
Lived Experience (LEx) Leaders met with federal child welfare officials to share firsthand perspectives and push for policies that better support youth in foster care. Read here.
“When I went to voice my concerns, I didn’t know how to voice them. ”
— Dequincy Bergen, age 25, spent 5 years in Montana and Texas foster care
Want to Learn More?
Beyond Placement: Strategies that agencies, advocates and workers can use to support belonging, lifelong connections and youth rights.
Read here.
Reducing Vulnerability of Foster Youth to Predators and Sex Trafficking: Learn about recommendations from the National Foster Care Youth & Alumni Policy Council which informed the federal requirement that states provide a list of rights to youth. Read here.