The cost of adoptions varies greatly. Typical costs may include pregnancy-related medical expenses, home study fees, court costs, agency fees, the birth mother's attorney's fees, and the adoptive parents' attorney's fees. A birth mother may be entitled to a limited amount of living expenses, necessary for her heath and welfare. However, each adoption is different and may not necessarily include all of these costs. Types of adoptions include private independent adoptions, agency adoptions, international adoptions, minority/special needs adoptions, and relative and step-parent adoptions. The total cost of a private independent adoption between non-relatives can range between $6,000 (six) and $10,000 (ten thousand dollars) for uncontested placement. These fees may be higher depending on the medical fees, reimbursement for the birth parent's pregnancy-related expenses, legal fees, and counseling services. Agency fees also vary, with some agencies charging a sliding fee based on the income of the adoptive parent. Adoptions through the Department of Human Services can cost much less, and in the case of special needs children, the adoptive parents may receive an adoption subsidy. Each agency, attorney, country, and state can set fees independent of other providers. Discussion of fees early in the process is recommended. For more information on adoption costs, contact a qualified attorney.
