[orthodoxmom]

So confused and OVERWHELMED.....
never thought this would be so complicated...
We really wanted to get the ball rollling on this (we're 43 already) and my DH was all for it until he saw the cost of just the home study (we were quoted 1500) and how much personal information is required to give out..... So I'm not sure this is going to happen for us...
But firstmost on our minds right now is:

1. Is there a difference in cost with going from a lawyer vs. an agency? (We are signing on with a mission for matching so I'm not sure we'd need an agency or not)

2. What seems to be the true average cost in the U.S. for interstate adoptions? There seems to be so much variance in things I'm reading on the internet.... what is really the average cost for interstate adoption of an infant to say two or three years of age? WITHOUT foster care adoption and without severe disabilities?

3. How much weight do you think someone doing a home study would place on a bankruptcy that took place 13 years ago or the fact that we both went to therapy over 6 years ago for factors that no longer affect us?

4. Do all home studies ask for tax records for the last 10 years? (that was asked for a study that we set up but haven't had done yet)

If you can help me with any of these questions, it would be MOST appreciated.... any words of encouragement would be nice too.

[GraceIL]

Cost for domestic adoption vary widely - from $10,000 (pretty rare to be that low) to over $40,000 (unusually high). Many seem to be in the $25-30,000 range. The higher your budget and the more open you are on race/gender/substance exposure, the quicker your match will likely be. The lower your budget and less open, the longer it takes. Of course you may just get lucky!

Lawyer vs. agency also varies quite a bit, though from my research, lawyers can often be higher in cost. You should contact many different lawyers and agencies in your area, and those who work nationally to get a better idea. You also want to see what the laws are in your state to determine who you can work with. Some states do not allow certain types of adoption workers, such as facilitators or referral agencies.

Don't worry about the bankruptcy if your current finances are in good shape. I had one 9 years ago and it wasn't an issue. They are looking for people who have stable finances and are responsible. You might have to provide an explanation of the therapy sessions, but I don't think that would be an issue if you overcame the problems.

Wow, tax records for 10 years? That's extreme. I had to provide 3 years worth.

You may be able to look around for other home study agencies in your area as they will often have different requirements.

[Mandi812]

Most people told me when i started that a attorney was cheaper than a agency, but after talking to some attorneys, they are just as costly. If i were you check out the book adoption for dummies. it is a easy read and will help answer alot of questions.