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The Pennsylvania Adoption Process [Step-by-Step Guide]

Starting the adoption process in Pennsylvania is a big decision that can feel overwhelming without the right support.

If you're wondering where to begin, you're not alone. Many hopeful parents have the same questions: What are the steps to adoption? What are the requirements? How long does it take?

Wherever you are in your adoption journey, you deserve trustworthy information. In this guide, we'll break down how to adopt, Pennsylvania-specific requirements, wait times, costs and more. If you're ready to take the next step, contact us today to speak with a specialist.

How to Adopt a Child in Pennsylvania

If you're pursuing private domestic adoption, there are generally five steps in the adoption process. Here's a closer look:

Step 1: Choose an Adoption Agency in Pennsylvania

Start by selecting an adoption agency that fits your goals and values. A licensed agency will walk you through each part of the adoption process and ensure you meet Pennsylvania’s legal requirements, including the home study.

Step 2: Create Your Family Profile

Your agency will help you create a profile that expectant parents review when choosing a family. This is your chance to share who you are, your values, your lifestyle and the kind of relationship you're open to having after placement.

Step 3: Wait for an Adoption Opportunity

Once your profile is active, your agency will notify you when an expectant parent selects you. Wait times vary, but families who are more flexible with their preferences tend to adopt sooner. During this stage, you may begin building a relationship with the expectant parents.

Step 4: Prepare for Placement

As the pregnancy progresses, your agency will help you prepare for placement, including what to expect at the hospital. Once legal consent is signed, you'll bring your child home and begin the post-placement process.

Step 5: Finalize the Adoption in Court

After several months, you’ll attend a finalization hearing in family court. Once this is complete, your child is legally and permanently part of your family.

Requirements to Adopt in Pennsylvania

There are no specific age, marital status or residency requirements written into Pennsylvania state law. However, individual agencies may set their own eligibility guidelines.

The two most notable requirements to adopt in Pennsylvania are:

The Home Study

To adopt, you must complete a home study conducted by a licensed agency or a court-approved social worker. The home study involves documentation, home visits and interviews to determine if you're ready to parent. It must be completed within three years and updated within one year of placement.

Background Checks

All adoptive parents — and anyone 18 or older living in your home — must pass a series of background checks. These include:

  • Pennsylvania State Police criminal history

  • Child abuse clearance

  • Federal fingerprint-based check

  • Additional checks from any other states lived in within the past five years

How Long Does Private Domestic Adoption Take in Pennsylvania?

The process of adoption takes time, and the wait can vary based on several factors. American Adoptions offers an estimated wait time average of 12 months.

Your specific timeline depends on:

  • Marketing

    Agencies that actively promote your profile to more expectant parents often result in shorter wait times.

  • Licensing

    Fully licensed agencies are reviewed by the state to ensure transparency and accuracy.

  • National vs. Local Agencies

    National agencies like American Adoptions work with expectant parents across the country, increasing your chances of being chosen more quickly.

What Does Adoption Cost in Pennsylvania?

Private domestic adoption typically costs $30,000 to $70,000 or more, depending on the services you receive and the agency you choose.

Here’s a breakdown of what those costs may include:

From your first consultation to final placement, our specialists manage your adoption from start to finish.

Referrals to licensed providers for the required home study evaluation.

Financial assistance for the birth parent’s living expenses, medical care, and counseling.

We promote your family nationwide to help you connect with the right opportunity faster.

Coordination of all necessary legal steps to ensure a secure adoption.

Continued services for both adoptive families and birth parents after placement.

Because adoption is such a significant investment, it’s important to choose an agency that protects your finances. American Adoptions offers adoption disruption insurance, which refunds 100% of your post-activation fees if an expectant parent changes their mind. That way, you can move forward with a new opportunity when you’re ready.

Types of Adoption Available in Pennsylvania

There are several ways to build your family through adoption. The right path for you will depend on your goals and situation.

  • Private Domestic Adoption

    In this type of adoption, you work with an agency to adopt a newborn from an expectant parent in the U.S.

  • Foster Care Adoption

    If you're open to adopting an older child, sibling group or child with special needs, this option may be a good fit.

  • International Adoption

    This involves adopting a child from another country. It typically requires coordination with both U.S. and foreign agencies and has longer timelines.

Why Choose an Adoption Agency Like American Adoptions?

Working with a national, full-service agency like American Adoptions makes the process of adopting a baby more efficient and secure.

Here’s what we offer:

  • Nationwide reach with local support

  • 24/7 support and screening for expectant parents

  • Transparent costs and wait times

We combine professional care with a personal touch. Many of our staff members are adoptive parents, birth parents or adoptees themselves.

Starting Your Adoption Journey

Now that you understand the steps of the adoption process in Pennsylvania, you can move forward with clarity and confidence. When you're ready, our team will be here to walk with you every step of the way.

Contact us today to get free information. You can also visit one of our local offices:

Lewistown

3 W. Monument Square, Suite 210

Lewistown, PA 17044

1-800-ADOPTION

Philadelphia

1 International Plaza, Suite 550

Philadelphia, PA 19113

1-800-ADOPTION

Pittsburgh

301 Grant St., Suite 270

Pittsburgh, PA 15219

1-800-ADOPTION

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.

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