Families often begin the journey to adoption around holidays. If you are considering adopting a child there are many factors to consider in welcoming a new family member. Although the emotional and spiritual rewards are plentiful, the long-term financial commitments are formidable and require substantial planning. To help with your planning here are typical costs of formalizing adoption in Washington State. Some charges may vary widely across the state, just as the costs of living vary, They also vary by adoption type.

Relative Adoption

Adoption by relatives includes stepparent adoption and is usually the least expensive. The usual range is $1,000 to $2,500 because there are fewer administrative and legal requirements. 

Foster Care Adoption

Because the state covers many expenses, adopting a child in foster care is generally considerably less expensive than private and international adoptions. Costs range from no costs to $3000. Adoptive families may qualify for reimbursement for legal and other fees. In addition, the state subsidizes some ongoing care costs, especially for children with special needs.

Private Agency Adoption

Private agency adoptions are usually the most expensive, ranging from $20,000 to more than $50,000. These fees include:

  • Application and home study fees: $2,000 to $5,000
  • Agency services: $10,000 to $30,000
  • Legal fees for finalization: $2,000 to $5,000
  • Birth parent expenses (if applicable): Variable, based on needs and agreements.

Independent (Private) Adoption

Many adoptive parents elect to adopt without an agency, working directly with birth parents, often assisted by an attorney, Some of the fees can be a bit lower than an agency adoption. The cost range is typically $10,000 to $40,000 or more The costs include:

  • Attorney fees: $5,000 to $15,000
  • Home study: $2,000 to $5,000
  • Birth parent expenses: May include medical, housing, and counseling costs, subject to state law and court approval.
  • There may be costs for advertising and networking to find birth parents.

International Adoption

Adopting a child from another country can cost about the same as adopting a child within the U.S. Costs vary by country and can range between $20,000 to $50,000 or more. They include:

  • Home study: $2,000 to $5,000
  • Travel expenses: $5,000 to $15,000 (depending on the country)
  • Translation/documentation fees: $1,000 to $3,000
  • Washington agencies working with international adoptions guide families through the federal requirements.

Some financial assistance to explore

Tax Credits: Families may qualify for the federal adoption tax credit, which was $15,950 per child in 2023 (subject to income limits). Any unused credit can be brought forward for five years.

Check out adoption-specific grants and non-profit agencies that assist with adoptions.

Your employer may offer adoption benefits, including paid leave and expense reimbursement.

The Family Law attorneys at GSJones stand ready to assist you with your adoption and other Family Law legal issues. Please call 360-876-9221.