Choosing a Child Adoption Agency

When it comes to adopting a child, choosing a child adoption agency can be one of the biggest hurdles an adoptive parent will face. While adoption may be an emotional overload for you, to an adoption agency you are simply a client and this is business. While many adoption agencies offer exemplary services to all of their clients, don't expect special treatment. Do, however, expect to be treated fairly and with respect. Because an adoption agency offers a service for a fee, adoption often is expensive and a good portion of the expense goes to the adoption agency-sometimes without you receiving the child you had your hopes set on.

A Business Venture
Make a list of prospective agencies and contact them. Ask that they send you all information pertaining to adoption and any background information available on their company. This may take some time. Don't rush.

You put months, perhaps years, into your decision to adopt-put as much energy and time into choosing the adoption agency that's right for you. Once you've decided to adopt, set your emotional baggage aside and get down to business. A good adoption agency should be able to walk you through all the necessary steps and be there to offer emotional support during and after the adoption, should problems arise.

You wouldn't purchase a car without checking out every dealer in town, would you? You shop for the best deals and clerks who treat you with respect and fairness. Put that same research ethic to work when you're comparing adoption agencies. Above all, be objective. Don't choose an agency until you've checked out all options.

Remember, if you see what you like in the first agency you investigate, you can always come back. Don't sell yourself or your adoptive child short. There are hundreds of adoption agencies waiting to serve you; choose the one that can serve all of your needs.

Once you've done your research, prepare a list of prospective agencies. Start at the top, and work your way down. Just because an agency looks good on paper doesn't mean it's the right one for you. You may find that your top choices end up being the wrong agencies for you.

What to Look for
Adoption agencies with good credentials generally come with good reputations, but not always. Regardless of whether the agency is accredited or affiliated with exemplary professional organizations, the agency itself may not be exemplary or professional. Do your homework.

Every state has a licensing standard for adoption agencies. Take this information with you to all meetings with prospective agencies. Make sure they are licensed according to the state in which you live and know the guidelines of the state or country in which you intend to adopt.

Talk to others who have adopted. Ask the agency if they can have a list of former clients you might speak with before making your decision. Take the information given by these clients into perspective. Remember that they were chosen by the agency. You should expect only wonderful testimonials from handpicked clients. Ask around. Check online chat groups and the Better Business Bureau in the state where the agency operates.

Bring a list of questions to ask each agency during the introductory interview, and remember that they're interviewing you too. Be honest and straightforward with your answers, and be on your best behavior. Don't give the agency you desire a reason not to desire you.

Establish Financial Expectations
Do not sign with an agency that expects you to pay all costs up front. Expect, instead, to be given a detailed list of fees and expenses and a payment schedule. An agency that expects too much or too little should cause a red flag to go up. Keep in mind also that while there should be no hidden costs, everything is subject to change. Adoption can take months or even years. Does the agency have a policy of raising their fees over the course of an adoption? Make sure you know in advance if some fees may change or if some additional fees may be applied.

It's best to establish financial expectations in your first meeting. How much do they expect the adoption to cost? Will they refund your money if, after a few meetings, you decide they are not the correct agency for you?

It is the job of your social worker to ultimately match you and your prospective child. While you can use a licensed adoption facilitator, you are not required to do so. Using a facilitator will add to your expenses, so weigh the pros and cons before deciding. No agency can offer you a child before a family assessment test has been done or before a Home Study test. If they claim that they can, find a different agency.

The agency you choose must step through miles of red tape. This is what you're paying them to do. Ask direct questions to be sure that they have up-to-date knowledge of the adoption laws that apply to your situation. Be sure, too, that they're willing to help you deal with the emotional ups and downs that are a natural part of the adoption process.