What are the requirements for adopting a child in the U.S.?

Question

Just wondering where I would find this information or if anyone knows it off the top of their head. I want to adopt at least one kid when I get older so it would be helpful to know the requirements of adopting.

Answer 1

First you should probably attend some seminars hosted by a local agency. That way you can determine if you would like to go through them or you can also hire an adoption attorney and go the private route.

Different states, have different requirements. I am going through an agency for a domestic placement in Maryland, and here are some of the requirements.

Attend several meetings at agency, fill out paperwork, then begin homestudy process. The homestudy can take up to 3 months to complete. Here are some of the criteria

FBI Fingerprinting
Criminal backround check
Driving Record
Full Physical
TB test/HIV test
Inspection of home by Fire Department
Inspection of home by Health Dept
2 meetings at agency with social worker
1 meeting in our home with social worker
4 letters of recommendation from non-family members
Financial records
5 page autobiography about you/and or you and your spouse
Fees for processing all above and homestudy/social worker fees
There are more items, but too many to list, some are minor, some are major (take time)

Once approved, you then begin to make your scrapbook. This is what the birthmother will be looking at to consider you as the adoptive parent. Also, a Dear Birthmother letter.

Adoption is an emotional rollercoaster. You have to be prepared to give up control. There are no guarantees, and there will likely be "upsets" for you along the way. You just have to trust the process, and know that your baby, the "right baby" will come to you eventually. Good Luck

Answer 2

It depends on the state you live in. Try doing a search on adoption laws in your state, or call an agency listed in the phone book and find out. Consultation is usually free, and they can give you all the info you need. I know around here, they have a presentation put on by a few different agencies a month that people who are thinking of adopting can go to. They break down the cost, the laws and all international laws also. So call an agency and find out, or an adoption lawyer. Usually they are listed under family law in the phone book.

We were thinking of adopting since we were told that I couldn't get pregnant. So we started the process, and then 6 months later, I found out I was pregnant. We now have 2 with one on the way!! I know that doesn't pertain to your question, but just thought I'd throw it in for fun.

I have a friend who can't have kids, and they are looking into adoption, but the laws in our state are really strict. I know here you have to have a home study done, and probably will in your state too. That can get expensive, so ask about it when you talk to an agency or lawyer. Also, you may want to check into any financial help you can get from insurance, or state agencies. I know our insurance give you so much for each adoption, so it's worth checking into.

Answer 3

I know you or none of close relatives cant have a criminal record and your house cant be crowded and everyone livin in the house has to get fingerprinted