What to Know Before Adopting a Child

The adoption process can be a long, complicated, and emotional ride. There are often far more legal and financial roadblocks than many would assume. However, most adoptive parents will tell you it is a journey they would never trade away. While there are several paths to adoption, there is no one size fits all case. There are some practical considerations that can assist you in your potential adoption journey. As with most things, having a plan and knowing what you are getting into is vitally important.

Do a personal assessment

Adoption is a lifelong decision that cannot be taken lightly. It is important to know which kind of adoption is right for you and your family. Whether it’s international adoption, foster care or private adoption, each path has its own nuances. Additionally, knowing the age range, you are hoping to adopt from is important as it narrows the scope of your search. It is also unfortunately an expensive journey so knowing how you will afford the process ahead of time is a step in the right direction. 

Carefully choose your adoption professionals

Finding the right adoption agency, or lawyer can be an overwhelming thought. Many have seen success by tapping into their own network of friends and families. Thankfully adoption is becoming a more common event in society and there are likely families around you who are just ahead of you in their journey. There are online directories as well that you can research, but as always, first-hand references feel the best. 

Know the costs

While adopting through foster care is practically free and can come with subsidies, the cost of other adoption paths can be quite costly. A typical adoption through an agency is known to cost anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000. Independent adoptions also can cost between $15,000 and $40,000 while international adoptions are in the same price range as agency adoptions. Most will tell you that cost should never be a reason not to adopt, but it is something you should take into consideration ahead of time. 

There are so many children waiting to be adopted today and just because the adoption journey might be difficult, it is always worth the investment.