What is the first step in adoption?

Question

I want to adopt a baby in the next few years... but i hear that it is difficut and expensive... i would not even know where to start. How much money would i need? Do they only let the really rich have the babies? i really would love it and give it anything within reason... but i can't have one on my own.... i just want to make a child's life better...

also is it possible to adpot older children or just babies?

Answer 1

I would go to an adoption agency.

Answer 2

The first step is to decide what type of adoption is best for your situation; adopting through foster care, private domestic adoption, or international adoption. And then research and contact several agencies. They can differ a lot, so it's good to talk with a few agencies before deciding on one.

While both private domestic and international fees are expensive (usually at least $15,000), you definetly don't need to be rich to adopt. My husband and I have adopted two children from Korea, just over a year apart (both were 6 months at arrival) and we are by NO means wealthy. The family income requirement was only $30,000 a year, and we just had to show that we could financially provide for the children.

As far as affording adoption costs, there are low-interest adoption loans, grants, home-equity loans and home equity lines of credit. There's also a tax credit of $11,000 after the adoption is finalized. So, if it's something you really want to do then it's definetly possible.

Good luck!

Answer 3

There are MANY, many older children that are available for adoption through the US foster care system.  The costs for adopting that route, if any, is minimal.

There are many different routes to adoption-domestic or international.  Domestically, there are the options of adopting through the US foster care system or privately (through an agency or lawyer, depending on your state).  Open or closed adoption, newborn or toddler or older child, or even sibling groups...the options are endless.

It is great that you are starting to prepare yourself ahead of time, so that you can do your research and not be overwhelmed.  Being educated about the process will make it much less difficult.  

The first thing I would say you need to do is find out the laws regarding adoption in your state, and decide what route you want to go.  Then go from there.  Many agencies offer free adoption seminars where you can go and learn about the process, fees, etc.

There are also tax rebates available for adoption, that does help with the cost.  Some employers offer adoption assistance, too.  

Good luck!  Adoption is a wonderful way to grow a family.

Answer 4

Well, the sibling group we're currently looking at is a boy who's 15, and girls who are 13 and 10. They are in the county next to ours and have been in the foster care system for several years. They look like a group who have interests and strenghts compatable with ours and weaknesses that we think we can work with. So yes, you can get older kids. They're going to come with some baggage, though.

Answer 5

You can adopt any age you want but most prefer younger children.  It starts with filling out an application for background check etc. and once you are approved as being qualified then you will be placed on a list of prospective adoptive parents.

Answer 6

Hey! We have just adopted our son thru an open adoption agncy called Adoptions from the heart. (We know the birth Parents of our son)  The most important part is to find out what you want. Do you want to adopt from Foster Care, which is very inexpensive, do you want to have an open or closed adoption, or an international one. Then you find an agency that provides your needs, and they help you with the rest. Good luck.

Answer 7

Admitting you have a problem.

Oh, adoption?  I thought you meant addiction....

Answer 8

First, congrats on wanting to adopt!!!!!   It is much easier to adopt an older child than a baby as most people want babies..   The least expensive way is to do foster care and adopt from there. we are in that process and it will cost us nothing.  well, perhaps  a bit to get copies of new birth certificate.

Answer 9

i know soemone who had adopted a baby in china several years ago. the process is long and patience is a must. Yes, unfortunantly the rich can do anything becuz they have the cash which is unfortunate, becuz it doesnt mean they will be better parents. In any event, Go find a reputable adoption agency and ask ask alot of questions. (and get references ) good luck

Answer 10

You don't have to be really rich, and you can definitely adopt an older child.  It's actually much easier that way- cheaper and less wait.  Assuming you go through the foster system.

The first step, whatever age of child you are looking for and whether you want to go international or domestic, is to get a homestudy.

This site has a TON of resources- http://adopting.adoption.com/adopt/getti...

Best wishes!

<3 Kelsey