Adopting a child can be an incredible and invaluable experience, but it can also come with significant costs. The cost of adoption varies widely depending on the type of adoption and the specific circumstances involved. For example, uncomplicated family adoptions and adoptions through the foster care system are generally less expensive, while private agency and international adoptions tend to be more costly. According to Adoptions Makes Family, adoption in Maryland can range from $20,000 to $50,000.
The Costs Involved in the Adoption Process in Maryland
As mentioned, the costs associated with adopting a child vary depending on the method used and the circumstances involved. Consider the following expenses that are often involved with the adoption process in Maryland.
The Birth Mother’s Expenses
In Maryland, adoptions laws allow an adoptive family to cover certain expenses of the birth parent, including the following:
- Reasonable fees related to hospital bills, adoption counseling, legal services, and other medical services
- Reasonable costs associated with the transportation to and from medical care related to the birth of the child, as well as the pregnancy
- Reasonable costs related to the birth mother’s clothing, shelter, and food, if she is unable to support herself or work because of a medical reason associated with the pregnancy
- Reasonable costs related to the court appearances due to the adoption, including food expenses, lodging, and transportation
Placement Fees
When adoptive families work with private agencies, there may be fees involved. In Maryland, there is no state cap on these fees. This means that private agencies can set their fees at their discretion.
Other Expenses
In addition to the adoption costs, adoptive families will also need to factor in the expenses associated with preparing a child for their home. These costs can include purchasing supplies, food, clothes, and other related items, which can add up quite quickly.
How Can You Cover the Costs Associated with Adoption in Maryland?
In Maryland, there are organizations and resources available to assist adoptive parents in covering some of the costs associated with the adoption process. These organizations and programs include the following:
Tax Credits
Depending on the adoptive family’s income, they can be eligible for a tax credit when adopting a child, which can help offset costs incurred during an adoption. These parents may also have access to state tax credits or other types of assistance.
Grants
Numerous organizations offer grants to adoptive parents or those going through the process. However, as rules vary, it is important for parents to check each organization to determine what the requirements are to qualify.
Employer Programs
Some employers may reimburse adoptive families for paid leave and adoption fees.
Adoption Assistance Program
Maryland offers adoption assistance benefits to those who adopt children through foster care. However, families will need to review the requirements to determine which benefits may be available to them.
Learn More About the Adoption Process in Maryland, Contact Rice Law Today
Deciding to build your family through adoption is an exciting journey. Welcoming a new member into your family gives you the opportunity to positively impact the life of a child who deserves a loving home. While you may be eager to start this process, the legal aspects of adoption can be complex. However, the experienced adoption lawyers at Rice Law are here and ready to help you navigate this challenging system and assist you in bringing a child home.
For further information about adoption in Maryland, including the costs involved,
contact Rice Law today.
*Please note, Rice Law does not offer legal advice on tax benefits, employer benefits, grants, or adoption assistance programs mentioned herein. Additionally, while Rice Law can work with private agencies, any specifics about services they offer and expenses for the same must be discussed individually with the agency.
Blogs published by Rice Law are available for informational purposes only and are not considered legal advice on any subject matter. The reader understands that by viewing blog posts no attorney-client relationship is created between the reader and the blog publisher, Rice Law. The blog should not be used as a substitute for legal advice from a licensed professional attorney, and readers are urged to consult their own legal counsel on any specific legal questions concerning a specific situation.