How to Adopt a Child in the United States: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

How to Adopt a Child in the United States: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Adoption is a beautiful way to grow a family and provide a child with a loving, permanent home. If you're considering adoption in the United States, it's important to understand the process, requirements, and your options. This guide outlines the step-by-step procedures to adopt a child legally and successfully in the U.S. as of 2025.

Step 1: Decide What Type of Adoption You Want.

There are several types of adoption available in the U.S.:

1. Domestic Infant Adoption: Adopting a newborn within the U.S., typically through an agency or private attorney.

2. Foster Care Adoption: Adopting a child who is in the public child welfare system.

3. International Adoption: Adopting a child from another country (overseen by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services).

4. Relative or Stepparent Adoption: When you adopt a family member or your spouse’s child.

Step 2: Choose an Adoption Professional.

Work with a licensed professional, such as:

1. A licensed adoption agency

2. An adoption attorney

3. An independent adoption facilitator (depending on your state’s laws)

They will guide you through legal procedures, home studies, and matching processes.

Step 3: Complete a Home Study.

The home study is a critical legal requirement in every type of adoption. It typically involves:

1. Criminal background checks

2. Financial disclosures

3. Medical records

4. In-home visits by a social worker

5. Interviews to assess readiness to adopt

Step 4: Get Matched with a Child.

Once approved, you’ll begin the matching process. This involves waiting to be paired with a birth mother (in infant adoption), a child from foster care, or an international referral depending on the route you've chosen.

Step 5: Placement and Supervision.

After matching, the child is placed in your home. You’ll enter a supervisory period, usually lasting 3 to 12 months. During this time:

1. A social worker visits your home regularly

2. They assess how well the child is adjusting

3. They document progress for the final legal hearing

Step 6: Finalization of the Adoption.

Once the supervisory period is complete, you’ll attend a court hearing to finalize the adoption. After this step:

1. The child becomes a legal member of your family

2. You can apply for a new birth certificate and Social Security number

Legal Requirements May Vary by State.

Each state has its own specific laws and timelines for adoption. You can find detailed requirements by visiting your state’s Department of Children & Families or consulting an adoption attorney in your area.

Estimated Costs of Adoption in the U.S.

Foster Care Adoption: $0 to $2,500 (often subsidized)

Infant Adoption via Agency: $20,000 to $50,000

Private Adoption with Attorney: $15,000 to $40,000

International Adoption: $25,000 to $60,000

Final Thoughts

Adopting a child in the U.S. is a life-changing decision. Whether you're adopting a newborn, a foster child, or a relative, being well-informed is the first step toward building your forever family. Work with professionals, follow the legal process carefully, and ensure you're emotionally and financially ready for the journey ahead.

Do you have questions about U.S. adoption laws in a specific state? Let us know in the comments or explore our full guides for each state.