Monthly check for foster child is taxable income?

[lcamassarelli]

My foster daughter received a monthly check ($896/month) along the whole 2016. Is this income taxable and required to be reported in my tax return?

[MargaretL · Accepted solution]

No, foster care payments are not considered taxable income and are not included on our tax return if care is provided to a qualified foster individual and they are paid by a state or qualified agency. 

[dblegee367]

So what do with the 1099-MISC I get from the state agency?

[dblegee367]

So what do with the 1099-MISC I get from the state agency?  They obviously report the income to the IRS so wouldn't that spark an audit?  I also do not file a tax return because I only have disability income.  How do I proceed and notify the IRS why I didn't claim the 1099-MISC income?  Thanks!

[Sidney1213]

I have been a foster grandparent for one of my grandchildren and have received payment each month for  a little over 6 months.  I want to know if I need to report this and if so do I need a statement from the county to tell me how much I have received this past year?

[Sidney1213]

Does turbo tax now charge a fee for online filing?

[Sidney1213]

I have a new email address and I would like you to have it because you always send me messages when my state and federal have been accepted.  Here is my new email address faustgerard1951@13. Please reply

[AmyC]

Foster care payments are not taxable when from a qualified agency.

Filing free might be an option. There are two possible ways:

1.  The IRS has a free file program and you must meet the requirements of the IRS free file program. Here is the link, please click the blue.words.

2. Turbo Tax offers a Free version which is very plain. If you don't need many forms, you may be able to use it. Here is a link to the programs and what they cover.

@Sidney1213