Hey Matt! Welcome to the boards!! Whew there are a bunch of things to consider before you start looking for agencies.
Tobeafamily gave you some wonderful direction with the questions. Go over those with your spouse and make decisions and then you can begin the search.
We are going through our local foster/adopt state agency. Child Protective Services. However, we DID look online at different agencies. Most have their criteria listed, fees, contact info, and some even have pics of waiting children. We looked at both international and domestic adoption and requested information packets as well. This gave us a chance to sit and read through all the paperwork at our leisure and then make a decision.
We chose our foster/adopt route for several reasons. Economics was a big one as we cannot afford the fees many agencies charge! They'll tell you about the $10K tax credit but keep in mind you don't get this UNTIL you file your taxes and it's not a whole lump sum. Many suggest getting a second home mortgage, a home equity line of credit, using a credit card, getting family members to pitch in, asking your employer if they offer assistance, etc. There are options out there. It just depends on what you are willing to do or qualify for to get the money to pay the fees. On the upside, the fees are not paid all at once but over a span of time. The length of time depends on the agency.
Beware of agencies asking for a huge chunk of money upfront. Some do require an application fee but state they will refund the money if you are not approved for any reason. Most application fees run $100 - $200. You DON'T have to put down more than that. There are always other reputable agencies you can turn to.
If you go to church, check with your church also. Some churches have One Child/One Church programs where the church as a whole helps financially to adopt a child.
I would do as much online research as possible to save money and footwork. Also, read other postings on the boards to get a feel for agencies, experiences, etc. Ask lots of questions!! Write down everything.
Oh yeah, in addition to the economic reason for going foster/adopt, we wanted the option of getting a very young child. As a foster/adopt family, we are taking on what are considered legal-risk children because there is still a chance the b/m might be approved to take her child back but we also have a chance at getting very young children. Plus, if the mom were to have more children down the line and they were also taken away (sad but true!) then we would get the call first because we already have the children from her earlier pregnancies.
Don't be suprised or discouraged if this all sounds like a business. It's a huge booming business and it plays on the emotions of those of us who are trying to work our way through the system and have a family. Stay focused, stay positive, keep your eyes open, and stick together. You'll be fine.
Congratulations on your decision and I wish you only the best!
L.
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