For Hopeful Adoptive Families
Adoptive Family FAQ
Questions hopeful adoptive families ask us, answered plainly , no sales talk.
Every family arrives with the same handful of late-night questions — cost, timelines, the home study, what happens if a match falls through. They're all answered below, plainly.
Prefer the full picture first? Start with the adoption process for families or the fee breakdown.
Eligibility
What are the requirements to adopt a baby?+
Most adults meeting their state's home study requirements, age 21+, financially stable, free of certain criminal history, can adopt. Married couples, single adults, and LGBTQ+ families are all welcomed.
Do we have to live in Utah?+
No. We work with adoptive families in most U.S. states. Your home study must be completed by a state-licensed provider in your home state.
Can single parents or LGBTQ+ families adopt?+
Yes, fully. Same terms as any other qualified applicants.
Process
How long does the adoption process take?+
Typically 12 to 24 months from application to placement. Home study: 3 to 6 months. Wait after profile is active: 9 to 18 months on average.
What is a home study?+
A state-licensed evaluation confirming you're ready and able to provide a safe, loving home. Background checks, home visits, interviews, and adoption education.
How does matching work?+
Birth mothers review our home-study-approved family profiles and choose the family that feels right for them.
Cost and Financial
How much does adoption cost?+
All services to birth mothers are confidential and at no cost. For adoptive families, fees vary based on your situation and the services you need. Contact us for a personalized estimate. The IRS also offers a federal adoption tax credit per child, adjusted annually.
Are there adoption grants?+
Yes. Organizations like Gift of Adoption, Show Hope, and the National Adoption Foundation offer grants to adoptive families.
Placement and After
How does placement work?+
After consent is signed (in Utah, no earlier than 24 hours after birth), the baby goes home with you. Post-placement visits follow for 3 to 6 months.
When is the adoption finalized?+
In Utah, typically within 6 months of placement. Timelines vary by state.
What's post-placement support?+
Ongoing counseling, openness facilitation with the birth family if chosen, and resources for your growing family.
Ready to Start?
A free, no-obligation conversation is the best place to begin.
Free, No-Obligation
Get Your Free Application Packet
Tell us a little about your family and we'll send your application packet, everything you need to begin. A member of our team follows up within 24 hours. No pressure.