How much $$ up front?

Hi all.

How much $$ upfront do I need for adoption?

What do I pay and when?
Paperwork?
Lawyer fee?
Homestudy?

I guess the rest is advertising and final fees once matched??

Help!!

TIA

Re: How much $$ up front?

That depends on whether you are going with an agency or doing a private adoption with an adoption attorney.

Once you decide which route (or to do both), the attorney or agency rep will walk you through the costs, home study and other paperwork.

Agencies tend to be more expensive, so you will need access to more $$. While you have some more control over your expenses when you do a private adoption, you still need access to thousands of dollars.


It can seem overwhelming at times but once you start talking to agencies/attorneys, you start to sort it out. Good luck!

Re: How much $$ up front?

The average cost is about $23K.

Some agencies will ask $5K+ upfront with application. Then $10K afterwards, then balance before you get the baby.

A lot of agencies, will post a details schedule of their fee timeline during the process.

I am not sure with an attorney!

A home study itself can cost $1000-$1200

Message edited 3/9/2012 8:06:32 PM.

Re: How much $$ up front?

If you are doing a private adoption, the cost of the home study may be a lot less ($400-800).

Sadly, I learned that AFTER having the home study done with an agency.