What Kind of Adoption
is Right for You?
Work your way through this decision matrix for a preliminary indication of where to start the adoption process. You’ll find the facts about international adoption, domestic newborn adoption, and foster care adoption on issues such as parental age, marital status, finances, child’s age, openness, and more.
Adoption Timeline
The adoption timeline — from making the decision to finalizing your new family.
Adoption Cost Breakdowns
Start your adoption budget with this chart of adoption cost by route, outlining fees and other potential expenses from beginning to adoption finalization (as well as adoption tax credits for each route).
How to Choose an Adoption Agency
An adoptive mother and psychologist offers her advice on how to become an educated consumer of adoption services.
Adoption Agency Worksheet
Selecting an adoption agency can be an organizational challenge. Download this worksheet and complete it for each adoption agency you’re considering. You’ll find useful questions to ask about the agency’s experience, timing, cost, country programs, and more, as well as space to take notes.
Adoption Attorney Worksheet
Download this worksheet and complete it for each adoption attorney you’re considering. Includes questions to ask about legal fees, the attorney’s qualifications, the typical working relationship, and more, as well as space to take notes.
Preparing for Your Homestudy
A homestudy is the first step in every adoption process. You are likely to be asked the questions on this worksheet so download it here. Give some thought to your responses (and discuss with your partner if applicable). You’ll be well prepared for your social worker’s visit.
