The adoption process is expensive, ranging anywhere from $1,000 to $30,000. Adopting someone over the age of 18 can be one of the most challenging aspects of adopting a child. There are often additional legal fees that need to be taken into consideration.
Note: The estimation is not the actual cost all over the US, to get the actual cost for your case contact a lawyer.
Many people want to adopt someone but are often discouraged by the high cost. The adoption process is not cheap, and you can expect to pay upwards of $50,000 for the transition.
There are some organizations that help with the transition costs, but many still struggle to afford the process.
The top three top factors that determine how much it will cost are:
- where you live
- if you’re adopting an older person or a child, and
- if you’re adopting internationally
What is the average cost for adoption in the US?
Most people think that when they decide to adopt, it will cost them nothing. This is not the case. The average cost of adoption over 18 is around $35,000 and can go as high as $50,000 or more for international adoptions.
Can you legally adopt someone over the age of 18?
A person over the age of 18 can adopt another person, but it is much more difficult to do so. Generally, people who are 18 or older are considered adults and may take care of themselves independently.
The adoptive parents would have to prove that they are financially able to support their adopted child before a court will approve their adoption, even if the adoptee is over 18 years old.
Adoption law in America is different in every state. There are no federal laws regulating adoption, so the legalities depend on the individual state.
Generally, there are two types of adoption: stepparent or stepchild adoption.
The adoptee can be any age; however, they must be under 18 to qualify for stepparent or stepchild adoption.
There are no laws in place to prevent adults from adopting someone over the age of 18. Many people mistakenly believe that they can only adopt an adolescent if they are single, but this is also untrue.
The process is similar to that of adopting a child, but there are differences.
The adoptee has to live with you for at least six months instead of one year, and typically 18 years old or older. This is because the child must develop attachments to the new family.
What steps does an individual need to take in order to adopt someone over 18
Families often struggle with questions related to adoption, but the process can be made much easier when families understand that there are different types of adoptions.
One type of adoption is for individuals who are 18 years or older.
Steps to follow for adaption:
- Collect documents from the local court that are required
- Need to find out the correct information of the person you are o fill out the forms. In that case, take help from a lawyer to avoid any mistakes.
- Collect additional information if the adopting person is mentally or physically challenged or competent
- Complete the papers by filling out all the necessary information. It should be filled out in front of a notary.
- Finish up the notary sign and emboss all the papers
- Documents submission
- After getting the court date you need to present in family court before a judge.
What are the benefits of adopting someone over 18?
Thousands of children are adopted each year, but sometimes people don’t consider adopting an adult.
Adopting an adult can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to know some of the benefits before you make your decision.
Adopting a young adult as an 18-year-old is a great decision. In addition to gaining a family, these children will have the opportunity to live independently and have a better chance of living a productive life.
Studies show that adopted adults are more likely to stay in school and have higher education levels than those raised by their biological parents.
As a bonus, 18-year-olds can spend their first Christmas with their new family!
In some cases, it’s better for a person to be adopted by an older individual rather than a family with children.
In some cases, the new parent is unable to have children of their own and they want to provide a loving home environment for an adult.
How long does it take to adopt an 18-year-old?
It can take months or even years for families to adopt an 18-year-old. If you’re considering this option, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I have sufficient financial resources?
- Will my health allow me to care for a child?
- Am I mentally prepared for the responsibility of caring for an 18-year-old?
- Do I have adequate housing and living space?
- Is there a positive and stable relationship in which an 18-year-old would thrive?
There are also many other factors to take into consideration before deciding if adopting an 18-year-old is the right choice, such as whether or not their siblings are being adopted.