MD SB658

Requires the Department of Human Services to screen children for eligibility for VA benefits, SSI, and Social Security within 60 days of entering custody and annually thereafter, and to apply for benefits if the child may be eligible

Prohibits the Department from using children's benefits to reimburse the State for costs of care, requiring benefits to be used for the child's unmet needs or conserved for their future

Mandates the Department attempt to identify an appropriate representative payee other than itself, in consultation with the child and their attorney, and only become representative payee if no suitable candidate is available

Defines "unmet needs" to include disability-related services and equipment, housing expenses for aging-out youth, technology and items for hobbies, transportation, and educational costs including tuition and tutoring

Requires financial literacy training for children at age 14 and transition planning information at age 16 and 6 months, including guidance on maintaining benefits after leaving care; effective October 1, 2026