Private Adoption Agency

For a full explanation of Private Adoption, please view this article:  What is Private Adoption?

Private adoptions are done through private adoption agencies. Private adoption agencies provide a variety of services including helping to locate a birth mother, conducting the home study, obtaining the necessary consents, and advising the adoptive parents on any specific state requirements.

Private adoptions typically take longer and can cost $15,000 to $50,000. The cost can be very high because the agencies may require the adoptive parents to cover the medical costs, living expenses during the pregnancy, and counseling for the adoptive mother. Additionally, the adoptive parents will also be paying for the agency's staff salaries and expenses.

There are both pros and cons to using a private adoption agency. For instance, private adoption agencies can be very selective. For instance, they can eliminate couples based on a variety of factors including the parent's age, marital status, income, health, religion, family size, and personal history. There are an estimated 2,000 private adoption agencies in the United States. Before choosing an agency you should review the agency's reputation and accreditation. Start with the licensing department of your state and review the agency's violations and complaints. Private adoption agencies can help couples get a new born baby and some agencies specialize in international adoptions.