What Does an Adoption Home Study Cost in California?

How Much Does a Home Study Cost in California?

The average cost of a home study is between $900 and $3,000. But keep in mind that each adoption is different, and your costs may depend on multiple factors. The best way to find out exactly what your home study will cost is to reach out to a home study provider by calling 1-800-ADOPTION.

Adoption Home Study Fees in California [3 Things You Need to Know]

When you’re preparing for an adoption, you probably have questions about the fees included in your home study cost in California.

Don’t worry. American Adoptions is here to help you understand the home study process, including its fees.

1. Your Fees May Vary

The amount you pay will depend on several factors, such as the type of adoption you’ll be pursuing. For example, the fees for a domestic adoption are different from the fees for an international adoption.

That’s why you should speak with your social worker about your options regarding the types of adoption and the fees involved.

Also, if you need to update your home study once it’s been completed, there may be additional fees for updates.

So, what adoption home study fees in California can you expect?

2. Your Home Study Has an Expiration Date

To ensure that all the information is up-to-date, your home study in California will need to be redone every two years.

After two years, if you’d like to adopt a child, you’ll need to have your home study updated. Each time you have a home study performed, you’ll need to pay adoption home study fees in California.

Also, if you have any lifestyle changes, you’ll need to pay an administrative fee to have that portion of the home study updated, as well.

It’s absolutely vital that you keep your home study updated with the most recent and accurate information.

Your home study lets potential birth parents know what kind of adoptive parent you’ll be and what they can expect if they choose you for adoption.

3. Staying Organized Can Reduce Your Expenses

If you’re concerned about adoption home study fees in California, then that is completely normal. Many hopeful adoptive parents are concerned about the cost of their home study. Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce your expenses.

By getting organized, you save some money. One common – and expensive – fee is for expedited paperwork. If you can get organized ahead of time, then you can reduce your expenses by not paying for expedited paperwork.

Before you start the home study process, be sure to get your paperwork in order.

You’ll want to have the following documents:

• Birth certificate
• Proof of marriage and/or divorce
• Proof of citizenship
• Tax returns
• ID card

Each of these items is necessary in order to complete your home study.

Don’t be afraid to ask your social worker for a list of documents you’ll need when it’s time to begin your home study. This can help move things along even faster.