New Virtual Tool Released to Help Youth File Taxes and Claim the $1,117 Foster Youth Tax Credit

JBAY and iFoster have partnered to create a free, virtual self-filing guide, providing step-by-step instructions for current and former foster youth to file their taxes and claim the $1,117 Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC). The virtual guide walks youth through common tax scenarios, such as reporting financial aid and claiming dependents. Youth using the guide should be able to file their taxes in under an hour. 

Youth eligible for the FYTC are between the ages of 18-25 on the last day of the tax year (2023 in this case), were in foster care on or after their 13th birthday, earned at least $1 and not more than $30,931 during the tax year, and lived in California for at least half of the tax year.

The 2023 tax season was the first year the FYTC became available, providing nearly 4,885 youth with a collective $5.1 million. Young adults who have already filed their taxes and missed the FYTC can file an amendment to their existing return and still claim the credit. View all of JBAY’s resources on tax filing and the FYTC here.

Add Your Name Today to Maintain Cell and Internet Access for Foster Youth

iFoster is asking organizations to join a sign-on letter expressing concern about the permanent program model for the Foster Youth LifeLine program, administered by the California Public Utilities Commission. This program provides no-cost cell phones and internet access to foster youth in California.

The letter outlines seven key areas where iFoster has determined the program deviates significantly from the pilot program and the initial intent of the program to support foster youth. These include program eligibility, policies related to suspensions for no usage and more. The California Public Utilities Commission will vote on the proposal next week. To add your name to the letter requesting iFoster’s proposed recommendations, follow this link.

California Announces Four New Homekey Projects Serving Youth, Bringing the Total Youth Households Served to 901

Governor Newsom last week announced an additional four new youth projects funded by Homekey, which will provide 101 units for youth at risk of or experiencing homelessness. The County of Los Angeles, the City of Los Angeles, the City of Fresno, and the San Diego Housing Commission all received funding for units serving youth.

Administered by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), Homekey grants funding to local public entities to develop interim and permanent housing. Now in its third round of funding, Homekey has helped create 15,319 homes, which are expected to serve 167,164 Californians over the life of the projects. Round three of Homekey has awarded more than $689 million to 40 projects across California, including 14 projects serving homeless youth.

Round three of Homekey is comprised of $736 million in grant funds, and HCD will continue to review applications and announce awards on a rolling basis. Ten percent of this round’s funds ($75 million) is set aside for projects specifically serving youth.

Webinar to Feature Student Perspectives on California State Budget

The Institution for College Access and Success (TICAS), CalMatters, and California’s largest student advocacy groups will be hosting a webinar on February 27 at 5:30 pm to do a deep dive into how Governor Newsom’s latest budget proposal will affect the state’s college students. The webinar will provide an overview of the proposed budget and budget process, and then students will discuss the most pressing issues for Californians enrolled at public colleges including access to housing, financial aid, basic needs supports and more. To register, click here.

Webinar this Wednesday to Address Workplace Rights and Remedies for Youth Workers

On Wednesday, February 28^th the Alliance for Children’s Rights will host a webinar on workplace rights for youth workers. Panelists from Public Counsel will share information about work permits, and basic wage and hour requirements such as minimum wage and rest and meal periods. The presentation will include an overview of anti-discrimination laws including legal remedies and strategies for protection from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. MCLE credit is available for this webinar. To register, follow this link. 

Upcoming Webinars, Training, and Events

• Coalition to Protect Foster Youth in the State Budget
• Save the Date - Celebrate JBAY's 20th Anniversary and California State Senator John L. Burton (Ret.)

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