How to Afford Adoption
You may be dreaming of holding your baby, finally beginning the family you’ve longed for — but you’re wondering: How can I afford adoption? You’re not alone.
For hopeful adoptive families across Pennsylvania, finances can be one of the biggest question on the road to parenthood. The good news? You don’t have to face these costs alone. Whether you’re in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, or any Pennsylvania town in between, there are resources and professionals who can help make your adoption journey possible — and affordable.
At American Adoptions, we’ve helped over 13,000 families become parents. We understand the emotional and financial weight of adoption, and we’ve built systems to support you every step of the way — with financial protection, clear wait times, and personalized guidance.
Don’t let cost hold you back from building your family. Speak with a specialist today to start planning your path forward.
How Can I Afford Adoption?
It’s the question most hopeful parents in Pennsylvania ask: How do I pay for adoption?
The reality is, the cost of domestic infant adoption can be significant, depending on the adoption professional, services included, and specific needs like birth parent expenses. But there are many practical and creative ways to manage the cost:
You Could Receive Nearly $16,000 in Tax Savings — But Only if You Know How to Apply for It
The Federal Adoption Tax Credit is one of the most valuable tools for adoptive families that are wondering how they can afford adoption. This credit allows you to claim up to $15,950 (as of 2023) in qualified adoption expenses on your federal taxes — a substantial reimbursement that can offset a large portion of your costs.
To qualify, the adoption must be domestic or international, and your income must fall below a certain threshold (partial credits available for higher earners). The credit can be applied for each child adopted and may carry over for up to five years if not fully used.
Adoption Grants and Loans: Where to Apply
Many Pennsylvania families benefit from grant programs or adoption-specific loans. These often have application windows or criteria based on family size, income, or type of adoption.
- Up to $20,000 for any adoptive family (single, married, LGBTQ+).
- Must use a licensed agency and demonstrate financial need.
- Deadlines: March 15, June 15, Sept 15, Dec 15.
- Grants up to $7,000 and loans up to $10,000.
- Income under $150,000; licensed agency required.
- Rolling applications year-round.
- Grants up to $15,000 to help complete adoptions.
- No income limit, but must show financial need.
- Monthly reviews, apply anytime.
- Interest-free loans up to $10,000.
- Must work with a licensed agency and agree to repay.
- Apply year-round.
- Matching grants and interest-free loans for Christian families.
- Must partner with a reputable agency and show need.
- Open applications.
From church-based funds in central PA to national organizations supporting families in all 50 states, help is out there if you don’t know how to afford infant adoption — and we’ll guide you to it.
Can My Employer Help Pay for Adoption?
Yes, and you might be surprised by how many do. Across Pennsylvania, major employers offer adoption benefits, including:
American Adoptions encourages you to speak with your HR department. Our team can also help you understand your options and even provide talking points.
Budgeting for the Adoption Process
Every adoption journey is unique — and so is every budget. That’s why transparency is at the core of what we do at American Adoptions.
We provide a full breakdown of expected costs, including variable birth mother expenses that we estimate based on her local cost of living — right here in Pennsylvania. If you don’t know how to pay for adoption, working with us provides a clear understanding of the cost upfront so you know where to start.
This helps you avoid financial surprises and stay in control of your adoption plan from the very beginning.
How Adoption Agencies Help Families Financially
When you work with American Adoptions, you’re not just choosing an agency — you’re choosing a better path to parenthood.
We provide:
Your Journey Starts Now
You deserve a family — and you don’t have to let cost stop you from becoming a parent.
Our team of compassionate experts will help you understand how to afford domestic adoption and build a custom financial plan that fits your needs. Thousands of Pennsylvania families have taken the first step with American Adoptions — now it’s your turn.
Imagine the moment you hear, “You’re going to be parents!” — take your next step today.
American Adoptions proudly serves families across Pennsylvania. We’re here when you need us — stop by one of our offices:
- 3 West Monument Square Suite 210
- Lewistown, PA 17044
- 1 International Plaza Suite 550
- Philadelphia, PA 19113
- 301 Grant Street Suite 270
- Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.