Adoption & Affording the Journey: What We’ve Learned About the Financial Side

Adoption

May 1

Let’s talk about the part of adoption that rarely gets talked about: the cost.

When we first began researching private adoption, we were honestly shocked. Everyone talks about how beautiful adoption is (and it is), but very few talk openly about the financial realities. And for the average family, that can be overwhelming.

Depending on the agency and the path you take, we saw total estimates ranging anywhere from $50,000 to $90,000, with the national average falling around $65,000–$70,000. That’s a big number—and for many families, it can feel impossible.

So let’s break it down, share what we’ve learned, and walk through how we’re planning to afford adoption as an average, working family.

Choosing the Right Agency

One of the very first things we prioritized in our search was finding a non-profit adoption agency. Many of the private agencies we initially reached out to had fees that were simply out of reach—just to begin the process.

When we found Covenant Care, it was like a breath of fresh air. Their fee structure is transparent, ethical, and spaced out in a way that felt doable.

No matter which agency you choose, I highly recommend:

Asking for a detailed breakdown of all fees—not just the “match fee.”
Understanding when payments are due (many agencies split them into three major stages: application/start-up, going live, and matching).
Asking what is refundable if a match falls through or a birth mom chooses to parent. (Some “refundable” fees only apply to a small portion of your total payment, so clarity is key.)

Our Agency's Structure

With our agency, here’s how things are spaced out:

Initial Fees/Home Study – Much lower than most private agencies and paid up front.
Going Live Fee – Paid once your home study is complete, still significantly lower than industry average.
Match Fee – The largest portion ($30,000) is not due until you are actually matched with a birth mom.

That structure gives families time to prepare, fundraise, and apply for grants. And for us, that was a game-changer.

Other Costs to Expect

In addition to agency fees, most families will also pay for:

Legal fees at the time of finalization: typically $1,500–$3,000
Profile book printing (we needed eight copies, but we caught a 50% off sale—more on that below!)

Planning for the Cost

We’re approaching this with a full financial plan in place—because we want to walk forward with confidence and peace.

Here’s our breakdown:

The match fee of $30,000 is our current fundraising goal.
We’re planning to use:
- Monthly savings
- Side hustle income
- Grants (many are only available after your home study is approved)
- Tax refunds or unexpected blessings (bonuses, gifts, etc.)

We are also factoring in the Adoption Tax Credit, which currently allows families to claim up to $17,000. This credit reduces your tax liability and is a huge help—but keep in mind: you still need to pay that money up front. So for us, we plan to:

Secure the full $30,000 when matched (possibly with a temporary loan or savings).
Use the $17,000 tax credit to pay back part of that amount after filing.
Fundraise and save for the remaining $13,000.

We’re looking into interest-free adoption loans, grants (both matching and general), and yes—maybe even a yard sale or lemonade stand. Bit by bit, we know it’s possible.

Encouragement for Other Families

If you’re starting this process, I know the financial side can feel intimidating. But please hear this:

It is doable.
With planning. With prayer. With support.
With transparency, accountability, and creativity.

Don’t be afraid to ask agencies the hard questions. Don’t be discouraged if your path looks different than someone else’s. And don’t forget—this journey is not meant to be walked alone.

We’ll be sharing our fundraising journey once our home study is live—and we welcome any and all ideas or encouragement from others who have gone before us.