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This year, we’ve reformed the Index to focus on unhoused youth and young adults (YYA), aligning it with their experiences and policy needs. Shifting from harm reduction to transformative change, some jurisdictions may see lower scores than before. This is a deliberate strategy, not a setback. Lower scores should motivate, not discourage, jurisdictions. They present an opportunity to adopt policies that effectively tackle and prevent youth homelessness, fostering meaningful progress.
Fee waiver for identity documents for unhoused youth and young adults
- Homelessness services
The jurisdiction provides a fee waiver for identity documents for unhoused youth and young adults
| Key | Metric Score | Type of Policy | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Reform | Jurisdiction provides broad fee waiver for birth certificate and ID | |
| 0.5 | Harm Reduction | Jurisdiction provides broad fee waiver for birth certificate OR ID | |
| 0.0 | Status Quo | Fee waiver or reduction provided in limited circumstances | |
| -0.5 | Harmful | No fee waiver | |
| No Data | No Data | No Data |
Cite: National Homelessness Law Center and True Colors United. "Youth Homelessness Index, Fee waiver for identity documents for unhoused youth and young adults" https://youthhomelessnessindex.org/maps/fee-waiver-government-id/. Accessed: December 14, 2025.
Homelessness Services
“The money and resources that are being provided have too many barriers. Lack of documentation or other things necessary to qualify is a huge barrier. Have to be on the verge of homelessness or losing services in order to qualify for the assistance. Should be fixed BEFORE it gets to the point of almost losing housing or utilities.” – Joel Swazo
Model Statute:
These maps are provided as legal information only and should not be used as legal advice for your specific situation. If you need help with any of the issues described on this website, please check out the Homeless Youth Legal Network (HYLN) directory OR email or call HYLN for help finding a referral to a lawyer.
