How To Plan For Unexpected Adoption Fees
Video CC": If you're someone experiencing sticker shock when you see adoption fees and might be wondering if it's even feasible, you're not alone. In this video (post), we're going to go over some of the key costs that you should be aware of when it comes to private infant adoption.
The first cost to consider is the adoption fees for the adoption agencies. Now, these fees cover legal fees for both the hopeful adoptive parents and the expectant parents, social workers, therapy, medical expenses, living expenses, and some agencies also charge the hopeful adoptive parents for advertising fees that would help them find a match for the mom in addition to educational programs. On average, these fees can range anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000, and when they're due is all dependent on the agency.
The second cost you need to consider is post-placement visits. This is when the social worker will meet with the hopeful adoptive parents and the child monthly in order to ensure the transition is going smoothly. Post-placement visits usually last for a few months and the pricing varies on the social worker's fees. They can range anywhere from $250 to $500 per visit, and the amount of visits you need, is dependent on your state laws.
Now, the third cost you need to consider that a lot of people don't think about is travel, and it's important to remember that travel costs can add up quickly. Depending on whether or not you need to travel out of the state to meet the expectant parents before the birth and then travel again for the birth of the baby can be a few thousand dollars in extra fees that you may not have accounted for. You also have to take into consideration the cost for hotels, rental cars, and food while you're there. You'll need to wait out the ICPC process before you're allowed to leave the state with the baby, so that can be anywhere from a few days to a week or two weeks, depending on how quickly the courts can approve the paperwork. Personally, I'd suggest budgeting for at least two weeks of travel expenses. Also, if it's open adoption, you're likely going to have to be making annual trips back to the state that the child was born in.
The last cost to consider is the miscellaneous expenses. This includes your background checks, getting your adoption profile book designed, booking a photo shoot to get updated portraits for your adoption profile book, co-pays for medical screenings, and other little things that come up. When it comes to affording private infant adoption, it's important to do your research and budget according to your circumstances. Take into consideration the adoption fees, post-placement visits, ordering your adoption profile book, and any travel you may have to do if you're considering an out-of-state match.
With careful planning, you'll be able to determine how much money you can pay out of pocket, and once you have that information, you'll know how much supplemental financial support you're going to need from loans or grant opportunities. I hope this video helped you understand some of the fees you need to take into account when considering private infant adoption. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below, and I'll see you soon!