KY HB669

Cabinet must determine within 60 days of a child entering state custody whether they are eligible for earned federal benefits from Social Security Administration or VA, including survivor or dependent benefits, and apply for benefits if eligible

Cabinet may only serve as representative payee if no other suitable candidate is available, and is prohibited from using any of the child's federal benefits to reimburse the state for care costs

Conserved benefits must be held in approved accounts (special needs trusts, ABLE accounts, or similar vehicles) that don't interfere with public benefits eligibility, with annual accounting provided to the child, attorney, and parents

A "Success Sequence Savings and Disbursement Plan" allows children to access portions of conserved funds upon completing milestones such as obtaining a driver's license, high school graduation, postsecondary enrollment, maintaining employment for 6+ months, or completing financial literacy programs

Upon leaving state custody, remaining conserved funds must be released directly to the child if 18 or older/emancipated, or to the person responsible for the child if still a minor