This study used state administrative data to analyze employment, earnings, and public assistance receipt among former Wisconsin foster youth who exited out-of-home care between January 1992 and December 1998 and were at least 17 years old upon exit. Results suggest that former foster youth who had aged out of care or had been discharged to independent living earned significantly more during the first 8 quarters after discharge than those who had been reunified, placed with relatives, or adopted. As a result, their total income was significantly higher. These findings are consistent with what would be expected if former foster youth who had aged out of care or been discharged to independent living were, in fact, living on their own and supporting themselves, while those who had been reunified, placed with relatives, or adopted were being supported by the families with whom they lived. Former foster youth who had run away or been transferred to institutions were employed in significantly fewer quarters and earned significantly less during the first 8 quarters after discharge than those who had been reunified, placed with relatives, or adopted. Again, their lower earnings were reflected in significantly lower total income. (SM)