What places can an 18 year old adopt a child?

Question

Wow. Please stop there. I am not looking to adopt. My older cousin wants to and I said I'd help her out and ask her question on here. I am 14 years old. I don't plan on adopting kids or having kids for years. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

Answer 1

No where.  An 18 year old IS a child.

You have to be 23 with most agencies, although most birthmothers prefer couples in their 30's and 40's. They want stable, mature couples who have established careers, homes and plans.  And lots of patience!  : )

Answer 2

Legally, whatever states allow it. Check with the child welfare authorities in your state.

Answer 3

Why doesn't your cousin wait a couple years? This way she can get a steady job and get everything in order. This way, when she goes to a agency,it will look better and she will have a better chance as well. it is legal to adopt a child at 18 in any state through.

Answer 4

umm i really think u have to be older, not sure though

Answer 5

Can you finacially handle it? Majority of people I know fresh out of high school do not have a good enough job to support themselves alone, without their parents support. Do you have your own house? Even if you do for how long, the agency would want to know you have a trac record of being a responsible adult.

Answer 6

Why would you want to ruin chances of going out partying? Adopt a child later in life when your ready for it, but for now enjoy life!!

Answer 7

Most agencies you have to be at least 21 some even 23 or more..international some require you to be 30

Answer 8

Why would you want to? As least wait until you're 21 or something.

Answer 9

You have to be 21 years of age to adopt. I know this because Im 19 and looking to adopt. And personally I agree partly with everyone who saysthat 18 and 19 is too young. But it really depends on the person. Some people are older acting than their age. For example I am 19 years old have a good paying and steady job. I have an apartment and a car. I am going to college through the internet. I am ready to be a parent , just like your cousin. I am not saying that its going to be easy/ or that im not going to struggle but i can do it.

But back to your cousin, let her know that most adptions cost more than 10,000. and depending on the lawyers request this amount could be due all at once.

I dont understand why a 13 year old can have a baby and keep it and someone who may be young but is ready cant.

Answer 10

I am really not sure there are any.  Most agencies have a stipulation that the parent must be xnumber of years older or younger than a child.  I am not sure a homestudy worker would work with her either. HOWEVER, it's probably possible somehow.

I think I would advise her to work at CPS-(Child Protective Services) or somewhere similar to get experience and show people how serious she is.  A college degree, or at least some community college work with classes in child developement and psychology would be great on her resume.  Many adults think a girl of 18 is way too young and still a child herself-so it will be difficult to prove otherwise.  Look at our society now-what are most 18 year old girls doing?????

Have her make up a plan and stick with it-maybe she can provide respite care for others, work in a camp or something to show adults that she is responsible and can do the job well.  work in a hospital in a neonatal unit.  My friend did a brief time and loved it.  Her mom would also volunteer and go in and just hold babies that needed to be held and touched.

Best of luck!  Being prepared, intellegent and working hard will pay off! Sheri

Answer 11

I am not aware of anywhere where an 18 year old can adopt.  The youngest I'm aware of is 19 & that's only some states and through foster care.

I wish your cousin the best!