What Is the Process to Adopt a Child?
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Selecting an Adoption Agency or Attorney
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The first step in an adoption is to select an agency that you and your partner or spouse want to work with. There are religious-based adoption agencies, state agencies and non-profits. One of the best ways to find out about adoption agencies is through referrals or the agency's literature. Schedule a meeting to find out how each agency guides you through the process. If you're not satisfied, or your gut tells you no, follow your instinct. The same goes with hiring an attorney. You can find a good attorney through referrals, but examine her record with family law.
The Home Study
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Once you've found the agency and/or attorney you wish to work with in expanding your family, you're ready for the home study. Home studies are required by the laws of most states and are used largely to evaluate and determine whether or not you and your spouse will be fit parents.
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Finding a Child
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Most couples are often placed on waiting lists until a child is available. The length of time you wait can vary based on the type of adoption you choose (domestic, closed, open, international). The length of time you wait can also depend on specifics--such as if your family is of Irish-German descent and you request an Irish-German baby.
You've Got Your Child
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Once a match is found, it typically takes a month or so before you can bring the baby or child home due to paperwork and other legalities.
Other Considerations
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Adoption laws vary from state to state. Before you start the process or as you start the process, it's good to know what your state requires. You should be able to find that information either through your state's Department of Family Services office or another good resource, the Adoption Network (see the link in Resources below).
International adoptions, particularly those in Eastern Europe or Asia, tend to move a bit faster than domestic adoptions. There's a greater demand for parents outside the United States and more available children.
Costs
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According to the website adoption.com, an adoption costs anywhere between $5,000 to $40,000 or more for an agency or private adoption. It can cost $7,000 to $30,000 or more for an international adoption. The least expensive adoption is through the foster care system.
When considering costs--including application fees, a home study, travel (especially for international adoption), medical bills, attorney fees, agency fees--the type of adoption you choose and the agency can all play a part in whether the fees you pay to adopt are high or low.
Before you rule adoption out because of cost, there are tax credits, subsidies and loans you can apply for to make adoption an option for bringing a child into your home.
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