Foster care allowances and benefits for young people: New rules on payment and continuation of support after the age of 18

The National Agency for Payments and Social Inspection (ANPIS) announced on Thursday, September 24, changes to the procedures for granting placement allowances, support allowances and allowances for young people. The new rules are set out in Order No. 1,277/2026, published in Official Gazette No. 787, and primarily concern young people leaving the special protection system who continue their studies or find employment.

The placement allowance may also be granted after the beneficiary turns 18, if they are enrolled in an educational program. The protection measure may be continued for a transition period of up to two years, and if the young person begins a new form of education, support may be extended until the completion of their studies, without exceeding the age of 26.

The allowance for young people may be requested by persons under 26 who work or study, including those who have already left the system. Before protection ends when they reach adulthood, the General Directorates for Social Assistance and Child Protection (DGASPC) must provide counseling and prepare a written report.

Payments will not be suspended if school enrollment certificates are submitted within six months or before the end of the school year. Some benefits may be claimed retroactively, including by beneficiaries eligible on April 10, 2026, if they submit the application within a maximum of 60 working days from the order's entry into force.