Choosing an Adoption Agency

It is possible to adopt without using an adoption agency. However, adoption agencies provide many valuable services, and in some cases, the assistance of an adoption agency may be required by law. When choosing an adoption agency, first decide if you want your adoption to be domestic or international. If planning a domestic adoption, do you want to adopt an infant or a foster child?

Photo courtesy Trans Centre Temasek Reachout and Neighborhood Service Adoption agencies provide many valuable services, and in some cases, the assistance of an adoption agency may be required by law.

When researching adoption agencies, prepare a list of questions. Here are some to consider:

• Which states are you licensed in? What is the standing of the license?
• How long have you been doing this type of adoption?
• What do you require from prospective parents?
• How many successful adoptions has your agency facilitated?
• How do you prepare prospective parents?
• What are the fees?
• Is there a refund policy if an adoption doesn’t work out?
• Do you offer any post-adoption services?

Photo courtesy stock.xchng An adoption agency can help you with an intercountry adoption.

If planning an intercountry adoption, here are some additional questions you may want to ask:

• In which countries do you operate? How long have you dealt with these countries?
• Do you have overseas staff? Whom do you work with in other countries?
• How do you identify children eligible for adoption in other countries?