How much does adoption cost?

The total cost of adoption can vary widely based on the situation. Generally, prospective adoptive parents should anticipate a range of expenses that cover various services and fees essential to the adoption journey.

Our agency fee is usually around $36,000, competitive with other agencies. It covers a broad spectrum of services, including case management, support for birth mothers, and other necessary services. However, it’s important to understand that there will be additional costs, such as legal fees, administrative expenses, and other necessities based on each unique adoption case.

Overall, the majority of adoptions cost between $40-70,000 in total. However, many adoption agencies will advertise their agency fee as the only cost, causing them to look less expensive, when the adoption will likely be a similar cost as with A Baby Step Adoption.

We strive to be transparent and will provide a detailed overview of the fee structure during your initial consultation. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect during the adoption process.

Is there a waiting list?

No! Once you join our agency match program, you will be informed of all current and new leads that come into the agency, and have the opportunity to have your adoption profile shared with birth mothers around the country.

How long will it take to find a match?

Our average match occurs less than 6 months of you signing the agency’s pre-match contract. However, it can take more or less time depending on your personal preferences. The more open you are to choices, the faster you will match! Last year 62% of our families matched in less than 6 months, and 92% matched in less than 9 months.

Do I receive background information on the birth parents and when?

Yes, you receive a social and medical history background form filled out by the birth parents before the match occurs. As information becomes available during the pregnancy, we will pass this information on to you.

When are the birth parents’ rights terminated?

This depends on the state’s laws that are being used. Your agency or your attorney will usually recommend the state law with the quickest termination, if possible. In Pennsylvania, once birth parents sign their Consent to Adopt at 72 hours after birth, there is a 30 day waiting period until the consent is final and irrevocable. Birth fathers can sign before the birth of the child. Birth mothers and husbands can sign three days after the birth of the child.

Must we use Pennsylvania law?

No! You will usually finalize your adoption with our agency in Pennsylvania, but birth parents’ rights may be terminated in the state with the shortest termination time.

How are matches made?

When a birth mother has decided to place her child for adoption, she will receive profiles from our prospective adopting families. An adoption counselor from our agency will meet with the birth mother to answer questions regarding the families and offer help in her decision. Sometimes the birth mother will request to talk or meet with one or more families before making her final decision. If she chooses you, we will then provide her information to you. Then you decide if you would like to move forward with the match and receive our agency contract.

Must I update my home study and clearances and if so, how often?

Yes! Your home study needs to be updated YEARLY and after 3 years a full home study is needed again. Clearances also need to be kept current and are only good for ONE year.

Are there families I can speak with regarding your agency and adoption in general?

Yes. At your request, we can send you a list of previous clients who you can contact via phone or e-mail who are happy to answer any questions you have about A Baby Step Adoption Agency or the adoption process.

Can I adopt a child if my criminal record is not completely clear?

Yes. Each situation is different, and we encourage you to speak with your counselor during your adoption home study process.