For potential adoptive parents, adoption can be a long waiting process. Every state has different laws regarding adoption, and adoption agencies can vary in their processes. There are also variables regarding how long you will wait to adopt a child.
Here’s a guide to help you understand the adoption process through A Loving Option Adoption.
Requirements for Adoption Through Us
To begin the adoption process with us, these are the qualifications:
- Potential adoptive parents must be at least 21 years old. At least one parent must be under 45, and the other cannot be over 50.
- A couple must be married for a minimum of 2 years.
- Our adoption services ensure that children enter families that uphold our faith tradition based upon the Catholic Church’s teaching that marriage consists of one man and one woman.
- At least one parent must be a U.S. citizen.
- Potential adoptive parents agree to uphold the Gospel values in their home and plan to instill them in their parenting.
- All applicants must complete a full pre-adoptive home study with no concerns noted.
- You need not be Catholic to adopt through A Loving Option Adoption.
You Will Need a Home Study
A Loving Option Adoption is an East Tennessee licensed, full-service, child-placing agency. To legally adopt, couples must participate in an approved home study.
The home study is a snapshot of the potential adoptive couple’s life and includes the following:
- Background checks (including fingerprinting)
- Physical and mental health evaluations
- Verification of marital status
- Reference letters
- Your financial ability to provide for a child
- At least one visit to your residence to confirm safety requirements
- Interviews with every member of your family who resides in the household
What A Loving Option Adoption Provides You
- Thorough adoption education
- A legal home study as required by Tennessee law
- Assistance in preparing your profile
- Attorney recommendations
- Matching services with potential expectant mothers
- Assistance with final placement
- Post-placement services
How Long Can You Expect to Wait?
We tell potential adoptive couples that the average wait time is two years. Many factors can change this time frame, but be wary if an adoption agency promises a quick placement.
If you are a couple hoping to adopt, please contact us. You can complete our online contact form or call or text us at (865) 684-1894. We look forward to working with you.