Share a few details, then one of our team will be in touch. Congratulations on taking the first step in your fostering journey.
We understand foster carers are not motivated by money, but everyone has living costs. When you foster with Essex County Council, we want you to be financially secure. Then, you can focus on supporting children's lives.
Exciting news - Essex County Council are increasing our fees in 2025
To recognise the incredible work foster carers provide, we're increasing our fees. On average, foster carers will receive 16% more than last year. Plus, new foster carers will now receive a one-off £2, 000 welcome bonus.
We have also committed to growing our support teams too. This is part of our plan to recruit more foster carers, to support more vulnerable children in Essex.
Find out how much you could earn with our financial calculator
Amounts correct from 1 April 2025.
Breaking down foster carer finances
On average, foster carers earn £30, 616 per year, based on caring for one 11 - 15 year old (valid from Tuesday 1 April 2025). What you can earn as a foster carer depends on the type of fostering you provide and the age of the child(ren) you foster.
Foster carers receive weekly fees plus weekly allowances.
- Fees reimburse you for your time and the lifestyle changes you're making
- Allowances are for the child(ren) you foster. This is for everyday costs, like food, clothing and school uniforms.
Most of what you earn as a foster carer is tax-free
Foster carers have access to an exclusive tax scheme called Qualifying Care Relief. This means foster carers receive an amount of their income completely tax-free. The UK's leading fostering charity The Fostering Network have explained more about tax for foster carers.
We reimburse foster carer's expenses, because we know the little things add up
Expenses are paid for costs including:
- travelling to schools out of catchment area
- travelling to essential training sessions
- any medical equipment or care for the children
From April 2025, Essex County Council are increasing how much you can claim on expenses too. Plus, you also receive payments for children's birthday/Christmas gifts and days out during the Summer holidays.
Find out more about the benefits Essex County Council offer foster carers.
Allowances (paid per week, per child)
(valid from 1 April 2025 - 31 March 2026)
|
Children’s age |
Department for Education’s recommendations |
Essex County Council’s allowances |
|
0 to 2 years old |
£170 |
£193.13 |
|
3 to 4 years old |
£176 |
£193.13 |
|
5 to 10 years old |
£194 |
£220.08 |
|
11 to 15 years old |
£220 |
£273.77 |
|
16+ years old |
£258 |
£291.34 |
Fees (paid weekly, per child)
Fees are paid to fostering households, based on the type of foster care you provide. View a breakdown of fees and allowances for 2025 - 2026 here.