[bostonmom]

Hi, I got a wonderful pm from okracoke with all the different agencies. I have checked them all out, but some info I couldnt figure out or see on the websites. Can anyone PM me if you know which agency is least expensive and has an income requirement closer to the US 125% of poverty line? Thanks! I am really excited to begin the process.

[sak9645]

I hate to say this, but the U.S. 125% of the poverty line standard is awfully low. For a parent and child in the continental U.S. this year, it's about $17,500. I am not sure you could be approved by an agency for an international adoption with only this income, given how many newly adopted children need a great deal of medical care and other services, and given how costly it is to raise ANY child today.

Also, the costs of adoption could well be up to twice your annual salary, and most agencies will question how you can afford the various fees. Ethiopia is one of the less expensive countries from which people adopt, but with the homestudy, USCIS clearance, paperwork fees, agency fee, travel/escort (often the biggest cost), and all, total fees will probably still be in the 20-25K range. You should also begin preparing a budget that realistically takes into account the addition of a child to your family, to convince an agency that you will be able to support him/her.

You and your parents should figure out a way, possibly with the help of an accountant or financial planner, to account for your parents' contribution to your income so that it makes your situation look better, without having overly adverse tax consequences for either you or them.

You will find that many agencies that are somewhat inflexible use a minimum income standard of $30,000. While you probably can get by with less, especially if you live in an area with a low cost of living, you probably won't find many agencies that will approve a person making substantially less.

Do be aware that adoption from the domestic foster care system may be a better option, if your income is low. The adoption fees are often close to zero, and people can be approved as long as they have a steady job, aren't on public assistance, and so on. Some of the children will even come with subsidies for their medical care. Of course, it will be harder to adopt an infant, and some of the children will have special needs such as prenatal alcohol or drug exposure. But, then again, some foreign-born children also come home with known or unknown special needs, and it's often difficult to bring home an infant.

Sharon

[bostonmom]

Thanks for the info. My income last year was close to 20,000, but this year I am starting a new job where the income will be around 30,000. I have one child, but no bills - no mortgage, no rent, no car payment. My only monthly bills are 2 credit cards and car insurance. My bio child is very well provided for and travels internationally several times a year, so I know I would have no problem adding a second child. Just on paper, my income might look modest. I am in talks with one agency that I think will look at the whole picture. Thanks again for your response!

[bostonmom]

Also, does child support count as income? That would bring my income level up about $6,000.