How to Adopt a Child from the U.S.

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I thought I would write a little about birth parent living expenses. The number one reason a woman chooses adoption is because she is not financially able to provide for her child.

This is an area of adoption that many prospective adoptive parents question. Most states do allow for birth mothers to receive help with pregnancy related living expenses such as rent, utilities, food, transportation and maternity clothes. These living expenses are provided if the woman is out of work due to the pregnancy. The general rule is that a woman should not have any financial gain from placing her child for adoption nor should she have any financial loss.

I think that most people would agree that it is right to help a girl who is out of work due to her pregnancy and most would willingly due so. It is very important for anyone considering adopting a child to get a good understanding about the issue of paying living expenses. Those who are not educated about this issue often freeze when presented with a match, where the birth mother is in need of financial assistance.

In a typical adoption you can expect to incur between $1,000 and $3,000 in birth parent living expenses. This money is not typically reimbursed if the birth mother changes her mind ,so it is important to be cautious and rely on the guidance of adoption professionals before you begin assisting with expenses. As a rule of thumb you should not help a birth mother until you have received a proof of pregnancy. My clients are told to hold off until the birth mother has provided a proof of pregnancy, family health history and met with an adoption councilor for an assessment. Completing these steps shows commitment on her part and provides information that helps evaluate the case.

Most women are sincere in their desire to place their baby for adoption and they truly need financial help but there are some who are scammers.

Never enter into a conversation about money with a birth parent. Potential Adoptive parents should be there to discuss the pregnancy, the baby, her health, her life anything but money. If a birth parent asks for money always tell them that expenses need to be approved by the professionals who know the law. Always defer money questions to your adoption agency or adoption attorney.