Deciding to add a child to your family via adoption is an exciting and scary time, especially if you’ve never been through the process before. Here is a quick guide on some of the options available as well as the fees and what they cover.
PUBLIC/FOSTER CARE ADOPTION
This type of adoption is when a family adopts a child that is in the foster care system. The child is considered the client in this case and the first step taken when they enter the foster care system is to attempt to reunite them with family whenever possible. If there isn’t a family alternative, they will be placed with a foster family. Due to the hardship some of these children have experienced, there are resources available to families who foster/adopt. In some cases, the child may not be available for adoption after the fostering period due to being returned to family. The process for this type of adoption can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months and children range in age from infant to 21. In the state of Utah, this type of adoption doesn’t usually carry fees.
PRIVATE ADOPTION
A private adoption is when a couple goes through an agency or attorney who work with the birth parents to facilitate the adoption. The birth parents are considered the client in this case and the adoptive parents are the ones who cover the financial side of the adoption. Birth parents usually decide which family they would like to adopt their child. The process for this type of adoption can take several months and usually costs anywhere from $12,000 to $50,000.
INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
Similar to private adoption, this type of adoption takes place through an agency that works with the local government from where the child is being adopted. Countries have their own guidelines on what children can be adopted out as well as the family who is adopting. The process of this adoption can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the country and their immigration policies. The cost can run anywhere from $12,000 to $50,000.
WHAT DO THE FEES COVER?
Depending on the type of adoption you select, your fees may cover a variety of expenses, including:
- Agency Fees
- Medical Care
- Home Study
- Counseling for Birth Parents
- Legal Expenses
- Living Expenses for Birth Mother
- Visas, Passports, Travel Expenses
This article is intended as a helpful starting point and not as legal advice. If you have specific questions regarding adoption, please reach out to an attorney or agency.
