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Effective: 7/1/2024

5.6 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.


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 4.5.4 Background Checks for Kinship Care Providers or Relative Caregivers;​1
  2. Ensures the successor caregiver understands the duties, responsibilities, and risks, explained in SOP 5.5 Relative and Fictive 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