Politics

HHS Announces End of 'Orphan Tax' on Social Security Benefits

Updated 2026-08-12 01:55 UTC 1 source Neutral

The Department of Health and Human Services announced that 35 states have ended the practice of intercepting federal benefits intended for orphans in foster care. This change is expected to affect thousands of children's financial support.

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The Hill

HHS touts 35 states that have scaled back 'orphan tax' on Social Security benefits

Officials from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said Tuesday that 35 states have ended the practice of intercepting federal benefits intended for orphans in foster care. For decades, state agencies have taken Social Security survivor benefits from children in foster care after the d

2026-08-12 01:21 UTC