[2nd time round]

and how long did it take? To qualify for the tax credit does the adoption have to be finalized in Guatemala, or do they look at the readoption date? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks

[kjejmom]

We readopted in Minnesota in 2003.
We were home about two months when we did the readoption. We did not have to go into court because she came home on an IR3.

The tax credit is for the year that the adoption is finalized. I believe the adoption is considered final if the child came home on an IR3 or IR4 when the adoption is done here. The balance can be carried for a few years but I do not remember how long. We have used it for 2 years and still have a small amount to carry next year too.
I hope it helps.
Brenda

[crathke]

We were told to wait until our son had been home 90 days and the post-placement home study had been finalized in case the court wanted to see it.

Our son come home on an IR-4 and after the 90 days were up and we completed the paperwork for the county, we waited about 3 weeks for a court date. Once at the courthouse, the hearing took about 10 minutes. (I'm not sure which "how long" you're asking about)

[2nd time round]

Thanks for your responses..... I am waiting for the paperwork and the post placement typed report, and then can start the readoption. I just hope it doesn't drag out as we planned to use the tax credit this year.

[lotterino]

We came home on an IR-4 also. The child has to be placed for 3 months before doing the readoption, we are in the process of readopting now. All the paperwork is ready to be sent in, the post-placement is done. The wait for a court date will depend on your county I suppose, I have no idea how long ours will be. Our sw told us the actual court time will be abut 10 minutes and it's a closed hearing--closed to the public, but you can bring in family if you want. And I plan to bring a camera to get a picture with the judge.

To take the tax credit I believe readoption has to be complete (if IR-4) but you can claim the child as a dependent even if the readoption isn't complete. Good luck!