Adults seeking to adopt a child in the US often face a series of challenges, whether they’re looking to adopt a child domestically, internationally, or through foster care. Although the federal government has issued nationwide frameworks, such as the 1994 Uniform Adoption Act (UAA), each state government typically sets its own laws and regulations regarding adoption, complicating the process from the outset if a prospective parent seeks an adoption across state lines. Generally, however, all adoptive parents experience similar difficulties.

One of the first challenges to adoption is the rigorous screening and qualification standards set by adoption agencies and authorities. Prospective parents undergo extensive background checks, home studies, and comprehensive evaluations to ensure the sustainability of the child’s living environment should the adoption go through. An assessment of the individuals’ or couple’s personal histories, financial stability, previous legal issues, medical concerns, emotional state, and numerous other constraints are considerations during the screening process.

In addition, legal proceedings are costly and time-consuming, requiring the prospective parents to submit considerable amounts of paperwork, participate in court hearings, and meet any other legal requirements that the authorities set forth. Financial hurdles are another factor that can deter adoption. The process is expensive, and the cost can vary greatly depending on the circumstances and type of adoption.