2Deciding to adopt a child is a huge step in anyone’s family. Whether you’re married, long-term partners or a single parent, it will change your life forever. Being able to give a child a home is one of the most fulfilling choices a person can make. Each state has different requirements. Here's how to go about the adoption process in Montana.
- Be over 18 years old and married for at least 2 years. If you are a single parent, you may also be accepted, but only after an approved preplacement evaluation within the “home study” process.Educate yourself as well as your family members on the adoption process to get a better idea of what to expect. Evaluate your financial resources to determine how to cover the adoption expenses. Loans, tax benefits and employer benefits are some options to consider. Research other resources that may help with the expenses, such as an adoptive subsidy. See Resources below for a link to information on Montana's state-funded adoption assistance program.Select an adoption agency or attorney to facilitate the adoption process. They must be licensed in the state of Montana, for either domestic or international adoptions. See Resources below for links to find specialists. Apply through your agency or attorney to adopt a child and get the process started.Prepare to undergo the "Adoption Home Study" as part of the adoption process. This is conducted not only to evaluate you as a potential adoptive parent but also to educate you on adoption. You must also go through a background and criminal check, provide fingerprints and supply financial information to prove you can afford a child.Expect to be interviewed about your marriage (or divorce), your family, your childhood and your personal views on parenting strategies. While it may seem invasive at times, it is necessary to evaluate your potential as a parent.Get your home ready to be inspected. It must meet safety regulations and should be large enough to accommodate another family member. Clean up and make any repairs beforehand.Begin the placement process after the home study has been conducted. This involves finding or being matched with a specific child to adopt. The placement process and any waiting period may vary greatly from finding the child you want to adopt to finalizing the process.Be prepared for the cost of the adoption. The cost of foster adoption is the least expensive, from $1,200 to $2,500. For national or international adoptions, the costs can be $8,000 to $30,000. This doesn’t include travel, lawyer’s fees or any other expenses.
