NV SB284

Child welfare agencies must determine within 60 days of custody (and annually thereafter) whether each child is eligible for Social Security or Veterans Affairs benefits, and promptly apply for benefits on the child's behalf if eligible.

Agencies serving as representative payee must establish dedicated accounts (such as special needs trusts or ABLE accounts) for children's benefits and are prohibited from using the child's benefits to pay for or reimburse the agency for care costs.

Agencies must perform benefit accounting every 6 months and provide documentation to the child, parents with intact rights, legal guardians, the child's attorney, and the court overseeing the case.

Children age 14 and older receiving benefits must be provided financial counseling on preserving eligibility and planning for future needs; between 12-18 months before turning 18, agencies must inform children about continuing benefits and assist with transition planning.

The Division of Child and Family Services must close all Trust Fund for Child Welfare accounts by January 1, 2026, transferring balances to individual child accounts or remitting funds to appropriate parties; most provisions take effect January 1, 2026.