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Effective: 2/3/2025

C8.8 Subsidized Permanent Custody (SPC) Successor

Legal Authority

Introduction

​​​​​​​​​​​​​A successor caregiver is a relative or fictive kin caregiver that is named in the DPP-1257A Subsidized Permanent Custody (SPC) Successor Caregiver Agreement. This caregiver assumes custody of the child(ren) if the current caregiver becomes incapacitated or dies. It is not a requirement for a successor caregiver to be named, but doing so allows the continuation of benefits with only a short suspension while the agency assists the caregiver in completing the necessary steps to be awarded SPC. ​​

Practice Guidance

​In the event of the death or incapacitation of a caregiver, SPC can be transferred to a successor caregiver. A caregiver can be considered incapacitated if their circumstances render them unable to provide care for the child(ren) placed in their care via SPC.

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Procedure

The following occurs when it has been determined that the current caregiver who is receiving SPC funding, becomes incapacitated or dies:

The SSW:

  1. Completes a background check on all individuals in the home of the named successor caregiver in accordance with SOP C8.2 Background Checks for Kinship Care Providers or Relative Caregivers;​1
  2. Ensures the successor caregiver understands the duties, responsibilities, and risks, explained in SOP C8.7 Relative and Ficti​ve Kin Subsidized Permanent Custody (SPC)​; and 
  3. Completes a new DPP-1257 Subsidized Permanent Custody (SPC) Agreement before the court transfers permanent custody;
SPC is transferred to the successor caregiver upon a signed court order issuing SPC to a successor caregiver. ​2 

Footnote

  1. ​The successor caregiver is not required to be approved as a foster home or have received six (6) consecutive months of foster care maintenance payments. 
  2. The successor caregiver is eligible for non-recurring assistance.


Documents

Revisions