Adoption is a life-changing journey that brings families together, but the process can be overwhelming. With various types of adoption available, understanding the differences, costs, what’s included, and potential disruption rates can help you choose the right path for your family. Below, we’ll explore the most common types of adoption, giving you the insight you need to make an informed decision.
Public Adoption (Foster-to-Adopt)
- Cost Range: $0 – $2,500
- What’s Included: Agency fees, required training, home studies, legal fees (usually covered), government subsidies for foster children.
- Failure/Disruption Rate: 2% – 10% (When the child is nearing or Post-TPR)
Public adoption, also known as foster-to-adopt, is typically the least expensive option. Most costs are covered by the state, and you may even receive a subsidy to help with the child’s care. However, fostering can come with uncertainty, particularly if the child is not yet legally free for adoption (pre-TPR). After parental rights have been terminated (post-TPR), the failure rate significantly decreases. If you are open to fostering before finalization, this can be a great way to adopt a child from the foster care system.
Ages available for adoption: Typically 18 months – 18 years old.
Is it right for you?
Public adoption is ideal if you’re open to fostering and can handle the emotional complexities of working through the foster system. This option is often chosen by families who want to give a home to a child in need and may be willing to navigate the uncertainties that come with fostering. If you choose to be in the Foster-To-Adopt program in your state, you are unlikely to experience a failure in your adoption process. Interested in Fostering-To-Adopt? Read more here.
Private Domestic Adoption
- Cost Range: $20,000 – $50,000
- What’s Included: Agency or attorney fees, home studies, birth mother expenses (medical, legal, living), legal fees, counseling services, post-adoption services.
- Failure/Disruption Rate: 6% – 15%
In private domestic adoption, families work with an adoption agency or attorney to adopt a newborn or infant within the U.S. The costs are higher due to birth mother expenses, legal fees, and sometimes the birth mother’s medical care. Most disruptions in private adoptions occur before finalization, when a birth parent may change their mind. However, after finalization, the process is legally binding and stable.
Is it right for you?
If you want to adopt an infant and are prepared to work closely with an agency or attorney, this option may be perfect for you. Private adoption allows you to build a relationship with the birth family and offers more control over the process, though it does come with higher costs and some emotional and financial risk.
International Adoption
- Cost Range: $20,000 – $60,000+
- What’s Included: Agency fees, home study, travel expenses, translation services, visa costs, legal fees, court fees, post-adoption services.
- Failure/Disruption Rate: 1% – 7%
International adoption involves adopting a child from another country and often requires extensive paperwork, travel, and meeting both U.S. and the child’s home country’s requirements. The costs are high due to travel, legal fees, and agency services. The disruption rate for international adoption is relatively low because the process is highly regulated. However, once the child comes home, there may still be challenges adjusting to cultural differences or developmental needs.
Is it right for you?
International adoption is a good fit for families who are ready to commit to navigating the international legal system and can afford the higher costs. If you’re passionate about adopting a child from a different cultural background, this can be an incredibly rewarding path.
Independent Adoption
- Cost Range: $15,000 – $40,000+
- What’s Included: Attorney fees, home study, birth mother expenses (medical and living), legal fees, medical expenses for birth mother and child.
- Failure/Disruption Rate: 10% – 20%
In independent adoption, prospective parents work directly with birth parents, often with the help of an attorney, but without an adoption agency. This process allows for more direct involvement but can carry higher legal risks if things don’t go as planned. Birth mothers may change their minds, especially before the adoption is finalized.
Is it right for you?
This option is ideal for families who prefer more direct control over the adoption process and are comfortable handling legal complexities through an attorney. However, the emotional risk is higher without the buffer of an agency.
Relative/Kinship Adoption
- Cost Range: $0 – $2,500 (if through the public system)
- What’s Included: Legal representation, court fees, attorney fees (if needed), home study (in some cases).
- Failure/Disruption Rate: Rare
Relative or kinship adoption occurs when a family member, such as a grandparent or aunt, adopts a child who is already part of the extended family. Costs are typically low, especially when done through the public system. Because the child already knows the family, disruptions are rare. However, some emotional or legal challenges can still arise if the biological parents contest the adoption.
Is it right for you?
Kinship adoption is a great option if you’re a family member stepping in to care for a child. It provides stability for the child, though there may be legal or emotional hurdles along the way.
Choosing the Right Path for Your Family
When choosing which type of adoption is best for you and your family, consider the following:
- Your Budget: Adoption costs vary widely. Determine what you can afford and whether financial assistance (like state subsidies) is available.
- Emotional Readiness: Adoption can be emotionally challenging, especially if there’s a possibility of disruption. Be honest about your emotional capacity to handle the uncertainty or difficulties that might arise.
- Child’s Age and Background: Consider whether you want to adopt an infant, older child, or sibling group, and whether you’re prepared to support a child with special needs or trauma history.
- Legal and Travel Considerations: If you’re adopting internationally or independently, be ready for additional legal requirements and travel expenses.
- Support Systems: Look into available support services, such as post-adoption counseling, parenting resources, and community groups to help you through the journey.
Overview of Adoption Types, Costs, and Failure Rate
| TYPE OF ADOPTION | COST RANGE | DISRUPTION/FAILURE RATE |
| Public Adoption (Foster-to-Adopt) | $0 – $2,500 | 2% – 10% |
| Private Domestic Adoption | $20,000 – $50,000 | 6% – 15% |
| International Adoption | $20,000 – $60,000+ | 1% – 7% |
| Independent Adoption | $15,000 – $40,000+ | 10% – 20% |
| Relative/Kinship Adoption | $0 – $2,500 | Extremely Rare (<1%) |
Each type of adoption has its unique challenges and rewards. Take time to explore your options, talk with agencies or attorneys, and connect with adoptive families to find the best fit for you.
Adoption is a life-changing decision, and with the right information and preparation, you can make the journey one filled with love, growth, and lasting connections.
