In a perfect world, finding your forever family would be easy and cost-free—but we certainly aren’t there yet! There is no “cost-free” way to add to your family (even the “natural” way can add up!) but, depending on the type of adoption you choose, you can save a little money for raising your child.

  •         International infant adoption is, by far, the most cost-prohibitive of all of the ways to add to your forever family. Depending on the country from which you adopt, and the type of adoption you choose (infant, child, sibling group, special needs), you may spend quite a bit of money on agency and country fees, not to mention travel expenses. Some countries require prospective parents to stay in-country for extended periods, or to visit multiple times. Others require hefty government fees. If you choose to adopt from a country that follows the Hague Adoption Conventions you can at least know that your agency is certified to be ethical in its fees, orphan practices, and living conditions. If you choose a special needs international adoption, however, you may find that you qualify for grant monies that can offset some of your expenses.
  •         Embryo adoption is another method of adoption that can add up, cost-wise. In addition to the administration fees that go to the agency, you will also be responsible for medical costs required to implant the embryo(s) in whoever will be carrying your baby to term. Should you use a surrogate, this may also increase your costs.
  •         Private infant adoption can run in the tens of thousands of dollars in the United States. You are generally paying for agency administration fees but can also pay for pregnancy and living expenses for the expectant parents, as well as court fees when it comes time to finalize the adoption. Different agencies can vary wildly on fees, so make sure you understand exactly what you are committed to paying before you sign any contracts.
  •         Adopting through the foster system is generally the least cost-prohibitive of all the ways we tend to adopt. Contact your local state agency, and they will be able to send you to profiles of children who are ready for their forever home—maybe your child is waiting for you right now!

 

Written by Jennifer Galan.