Adopting a child can he a huge expense for the adopting parents. While some parents-to-be opt to work directly with a public agent, the paperwork and process involved often call for specialized knowledge.
Luckily, many private agencies exist to make this process easier, though at a cost.
In addition to the actual cost to adopt a child, prospective parents need to consider additional expenses, such as travel costs, attorney fees and any medical expenses associated with the child.
When using a private agency to adopt a child, expect costs to range in the tens of thousands of dollars, with many adoptions costing on average from $20,000 to $40,000. Adopting an infant usually costs less, totaling anywhere from $15,000 to $35,000.
How Adoption Works
The adoption process proceeds depending in large part on whether you seek a newborn or an older child. Older children usually find themselves in the foster care system of their respective state.
On the other hand, newborns never enter the foster care system but are transferred directly into the care and custody of their adoptive parents.
Before an adoption occurs, the adoptive parents must determine if they can provide a safe and nurturing environment, including undergoing a home study performed by a social worker. The social worker meets with the family over a three- to six-month period, and determines the safety of the home and whether or not the parents can provide a loving environment for the child.
In addition to making sure the parents can provide a good home environment for the child, adoptive parents often must legally terminate the rights of the birth parents or family before the adoption can proceed. This process might require a lawyer, but this is not always the case.
Regardless, any matter brought before the courts requires a legal fee, so you must pay any associated court costs incurred during the adoption process.
Private vs. Public Adoption
When adopting a child, initially you must choose between adopting the child through a public or private agency. The public agency works directly with you to determine your fitness as a parent, while the private company serves as a liaison between the government agency and you.
Cost represents the main difference between dealing with the public agency and a private agency. Usually you incur no costs when dealing directly with a public agency. However, a private adoption company charges for its services.
Charges include handling the filing of the appropriate paperwork, general case management and a wide selection of other services.
Pinning down an exact cost can prove difficult, as potential adoptive parents must take into account any necessary legal action, medical expenses and other factors in the adoption process.
Payment Options for Adopting a Child
Fortunately, most private adoption agencies do not require that you pay everything upfront. Most often, the agency divides the payments into multiple portions. This allows you to budget more appropriately when adopting and makes the process more accessible to lower-income families.
Loans and Grants for Adoption
In addition to various payment options, prospective parents also can apply for a loan or grant to cover expenses. Another cost is transporting the child to the adoptive home, especially if he or she is coming from out of state.
Airline discounts for adoption-related travel and the Adopt Air Program represent just two of the options available.