The time frame, like the cost, varies with the type of child being adopted. The wait is typically between two and seven years for a healthy infant. Children with special needs can often be adopted quickly, within a few months, if the prospective family has a completed home study. Agencies will consider single and married applicants. Agency requirements vary, but the age range most acceptable is usually between 25 and 50 and often depends on the child s age.
Most agencies require couples to be married a minimum of one to three years.
Some agencies accept pension, disability or public assistance as sources of income, but others do not find these resources acceptable. You do not need to own your own home in order to adopt. Agencies recognize that many different kinds of people can be loving, effective parents. It is important that people considering adoption be stable and sensitive and be able to give a child love, understanding and patience. Agencies usually ask for proof of marriage, divorce or death of a spouse, and applicants are generally asked to have a physical examination to document that their health permits them to care for a child.