top

close menu

When Can You Give a Child up for Adoption in CA?

When it comes to adoption, you may be wondering when you can “give a child up” for adoption in California. Adoption is always an option.

We’ll lay out a timeline for how adoption works as a baby gets older. To get more free information now, fill out our online contact form now or call us at 1-800-ADOPTION. We can guide you through every step of the adoption journey whenever you’re ready.

When Can You Give a Child Up for Adoption in California?

You can start the adoption process at any time whether you are pregnant, near your due date or have already given birth.

If adoption is right for you, our full-service, national adoption agency can be there for you every step of the way.

In addition to having services that regional adoption agencies just can’t match, and our decades of experience with adoption, our staff comprises birth mothers, adoptive families and adoptees.

When you work with American Adoptions, we’ll use our expertise and personal experience to make your adoption journey as smooth and straightforward as possible when you give a child up for adoption in California.

Adoption: Newborns to 6-Month-Olds

Up until age 4, the adoption process looks something like this:

  • Step 1: Contact American Adoptions to build your adoption plan.

  • Step 2: Choose the right adoptive family for your baby.

  • Step 3: Get to know the adoptive family (if you want).

  • Step 4: Discuss post-placement contact.

  • Step 5: Adjust to your new life as a birth parent.

The bond between you and your child gets stronger over time, which can affect your decision on when you can give your child up for adoption in California.

Although the adoption process is generally the same for most newborns, we know that it’s an emotionally challenging time as you make your decision.

With American Adoptions, you’ll have access to our free 24/7 counseling and support as you go through the adoption process with the many complex emotions that come with the journey.

Contacting and speaking to one of our adoption specialists can answer all the questions you have about when you can put your child up for adoption in California.

Fill out our online contact form now for more free information or call us at 1-800-ADOPTION.

Adoption: 6 Months to 4 Years

One of the biggest differences between placing a newborn baby for adoption vs. a toddler is the type of information your adoption specialist will need to help you complete your adoption process.

When you “give a child up” for adoption in California, if your child is older than 6 months, then your adoption specialist will need:

  • Your child’s birth certificate.

  • The father listed on the birth certificate.

  • Medical records for your child.

  • Documentation of where the child has lived from birth to present.

  • Who has had custody or care of the child from birth to present?

  • Who has provided financial and emotional support for the child?

  • Proof of child support from the father.

At American Adoptions, we can help you complete this beautiful journey. As a full-service, national agency, you can complete every step of your adoption process under one roof.

Call us at 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online contact form to get more free information now.

Adoption: 5 to 12 Years

If you’re wondering when you can put a child up for adoption in California, then most agencies, including American Adoptions, place children until they turn 4.

Although adoption is always an option, adoption may be harder as children get older because most potential families are looking to adopt a baby.

When you “give a child up” for adoption in California, we’ll provide you with all the right resources to meet your needs and preferences.

Although some adoption agencies may not deal with adoptions over a certain age, there are local resources and professionals you can use like Head Start or Social Services.

Start Your Adoption Today

There’s really no limit as to when you can put a child up for adoption in California but those options do become more limited as the child gets older.

Call us today at 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online contact form to get more free adoption information. We’re here to help you whenever you need us. 

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.

Request Free Information

View Waiting Families
Want to speak to someone who has chosen adoption?
Meet Michelle — A Proud Birth Mom
Ask an Adoption Question
View More Waiting Familes