Every adoptive parent knows that adoption is a major life decision. In short, it changes everything in every possible way. But there’s something many families don’t expect, which is the cost. When they research, how much does it cost to adopt, and see that the fees can go as high as $50,000, it makes many families wonder if they can actually afford to adopt. Understanding the costs and how to fund them, which we’ll address in this article, is your first step toward a successful adoption.
LeMay Adoption Fundraiser
Our team got to know the LeMay family when they did a family shoe drive fundraiser with us. Chris and Natalie were parents to Charlie, Scotty, Morgan, and Shelby. Still, they decided to adopt another child and provide a loving home. After exploring international adoptions, they decided to adopt a little boy from China through Small World Adoption. However, when they began the journey, it was in early 2020 (yes, the year of the pandemic).
China never opened to adoptions during their journey, so the little boy they wanted to adopt was eventually adopted in-country by a family in China. The LeMay family changed countries and sought to adopt in Liberia. We’re happy to report that they adopted a little boy, Daniel, when he was 2 years old. We’re also pleased to report he’s been with them, spending birthdays and holidays with a family that loves him.
That’s the wonderful thing about parenting…when parents decide to have children or adopt, they’ll do what it takes. Parents are heroes! On their journey, Chris and Natalie turned to Funds2Orgs to help defray adoption costs. Moreover, as they collected gently worn, used and new shoes, they spread the word about their adoption and got people involved. The LeMay family is a testament to the love of all parents for their natural and adoptive children.
How Much Does it Cost to Adopt a Child?
If you research the cost of adoption, you’ll see they vary widely. In some places, you’ll read that it could be low, but more often than not, it’s in the tens of thousands of dollars, up to $50,000. However, as Adoption.com explains, it depends on the type of adoption. For instance, a domestic private adoption ranges between $20,000 and $45,000. An international adoption can cost as much as $50,000, but an adoption from foster care can cost less than $ 2,500, depending on state and federal adoption grants.
Factors That May Affect Adoption Costs
Every adoptive family has a different path as unique as they are, and the child they’ll adopt. That said, several factors influence the cost of an adoption.
Type of Adoption
As discussed earlier, when asking, how much does it cost to adopt a child, the type of adoption makes a difference. Domestic, international, and through foster care each carry different costs, and also legal requirements.
Agency and Legal Fees for the Cost of Adoption
When you go through the adoption process, you may partner with an agency that provides screening, matching, and counseling. In addition, depending on federal and state laws, you will likely have to factor in legal costs.
Home Study Requirements
A critical part of the adoption process is the home study. It’s required for most adoptions and can range from $1,000 to $4,000. Further, if there are updates or revisions, there will be additional costs.
Time and Travel Adoption Cost
Depending on the type of adoption you choose to pursue, you may incur costs for travel. Of course, international adoptions can add expenses, but so can interstate adoptions. Those are costs you should consider when planning.
Special Circumstances
Another factor to consider is any special circumstances, such as medical needs or the adoption of siblings. These factors may increase your adoption cost, but it’s also important to remember that you can explore grants or adoption assistance programs.
Practical Resources to Help Pay the Cost of Adoption
As you consider the question of how much does it cost to adopt, the other side of the coin is seeking ways to defray the cost. With nearly 110,000 children waiting to be adopted, many families know it’s a sacrifice worth making. Still, the costs of adoption, especially international adoptions, can be hefty and give families pause, which is why they try to figure out ways to close the gap. Let’s explore the ways to do it below.
1. Shoe Drive Fundraiser
As the LeMay family discovered, a shoe drive fundraiser is an excellent way to earn funds for an adoption. There are no out-of-pocket costs, selling merchandise, or even asking for money. All you have to do is collect gently worn, used and new shoes from your family and community. It’s a practical and community-driven approach to fundraising.
2. Federal Adoption Tax Credit
Another way to lower adoption costs is through the federal adoption tax credit. By searching on the IRS website or speaking to your tax preparer, you can find out how to claim adoption expenses and save thousands.
3. Employer Adoption Benefits
Depending on where you work, some companies, particularly large ones, offer adoption assistance as part of your benefit package. It may include direct reimbursement, legal services, or paid leave, so ask your HR department about it.
4. Grants and Loans
As you get answers to how much does it cost to adopt, another excellent resource is the National Council for Adoption. They have resources, through partners, for grants and low-interest loans to help you bridge the gap.
5. Adoption Fundraiser Ideas
Know this: there are other ways to fundraise for your adoption. Take a look at our list of 12 adoption fundraiser ideas to discover opportunities to help you fund the gap. As you share your story, invite others to support your journey without any pressure.
Adoption Can Be Costly, but It’s Not Out of Reach
As you’ve learned from this article, there are costs associated with adoption. However, they depend on the type of adoption you choose to do. Regardless, there are ways to close the financial gap and give a child a forever home with you. All you have to do is stay open to possibilities, be flexible in how you approach finances, and remain committed to the process of bringing a child into your loving home.
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