If you have ever thought of adopting, there is no better time than now. November is National Adoption Month, and many children are in need of a loving home.

However, the process seems overwhelming. Where do you start?

The first steps towards adopting are described below. The process may vary from state to state.  

First, call an adoption agency to schedule a family assessment, or to find out which alternative requirements exist in your state.

Second, decide what type of adoption you want: foster, domestic, or international.  

Third, choose an agency, an attorney, and an adoption medical expert.

Step one: Family Assessment

Call a local adoption agency to find out now to arrange a “Family Assessment,” or similar home study. In many states, family assessments are conducted by a social worker within an adoption agency. Click here for more information about family assessments.

Step two: decide which type of adoption is best for you

Before, during or after the family assessment, the big question must be answered: what kind of a child is a good match for you?

The three main categories of adoptions are domestic, international and foster adoptions. When deciding which is best for your family, you should consider many factors such as your age, lifestyle, family situation and motivation for adoption.

Another consideration is cost. The majority of domestic newborn adoptions cost less than $25,000, while more than 92 percent of international adoptions cost more than $20,000 and up to $40,000.

These adoption costs could be offset by the current $12,150 adoption tax credit.

For foster adoptions, the need is so high that costs are minimal and the incentives are plentiful.

For an analysis of the three types of adoption, click here.

Step three: hire an agency and start researching now

Which adoption agency should you choose? To search for the best agency for you, go to MyAdoptionAgency.com.

As you research adoption, you will begin to see how many people are involved in this business, and how many young lives are at stake.

While adoption may be alive and well, there is a continuing high need for caring individuals to become adoptive parents.

For more information, see:

Adoption agencies and other resources

Should I adopt a foster, international, or domestic child?

Family Assessments for adoption

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