Four Reasons Why is Adoption so Expensive

HOME STUDY

Every family pursuing adoption is required to complete a home study. Home studies consist of multiple stages, starting with an orientation period to get background information on the family. Preparation training for parents is required, along with home visits that ensure the home is safe and suitable for children. In addition, health, income, and autobiographical information are required, as well as thorough background checks. Lastly, personal references must be submitted in order to provide the most complete picture of the family.

After each stage of the home study, a report is created by the home study agency. These reports are combined to create the family’s portfolio, which prospective agencies and birth parents can review based on the type of adoption program. After placement, a home study agency will also complete post-placement visits. These visits focus on making sure the child is doing well and thriving within their new family. The entire home study/post-placement process can span many months to years (depending on how quickly a waiting child is placed into the family) and the cost is often impacted accordingly.