Adopting A Child

For many adoptive couples or singles, the dream of the end result is what will keep them motivated through the process – which is how it should be. But if they are not prepared for the ways in which adoption works, those dreams could become tainted with frustration and disappointment. None of the information here should dissuade you from pursuing your goal of adoption.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START
THE OVERALL PROCESS
2 ADOPTION OPTIONS
THE TIME FRAME INVOLVED
YOUR FLEXIBILITY IN THE AGE/RACE/NEEDS OF A CHILD (OR CHILDREN)
LEGAL COMMITMENT
RANGE OF COSTS
FOSTER TO ADOPT
HOME STUDY
CHILD BEHAVIORAL CHALLENGES
3 DOMESTIC INFANT ADOPTIONS
INDEPENDENT VS. AGENCY
4 YOUR PROFILE
CREATING AN IMAGE
5 INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
APPLICATION
INTERNET
6 AFFORDING ADOPTION
IRS TAX CREDIT
FAMILY OR COMPANY CONTRIBUTIONS
GRANTS OR LOANS
7 AVOIDING COMMON PITFALLS
ADOPTION SCAMS
THE BIRTHMOTHER – AND BIRTHFATHER AND THEIR RIGHTS
FULL DISCLOSURE – IT’S YOUR RIGHT
CONCLUSION