interstate adoption

When you choose to place your child for adoption, you are in control of the process. This includes selecting the type of adoption you want to pursue and the details of your adoption plan. 

If you live in one state but want to place your child for adoption in another state, it’s called an out of state or interstate adoption. 

There are many birth mothers with questions about interstate adoption. Our experienced team of adoption specialists has answers. Read on for a look into interstate adoption and how it can work for you.  

Is interstate adoption possible for birth mothers?

Birth mothers seeking interstate adoption are welcome to pursue this avenue. Interstate adoption is a form of domestic adoption. This means that the adoption will take place in one country. 

An out of state adoption is not a rare or unusual situation. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services states that interstate adoption is a common occurrence that many families take part in. 

If an interstate adoption is what you desire, it’s important to select an adoption agency that works with families across many states. For example, Texas Adoption Center connects birth mothers to families in Texas and almost every other state in the U.S. 

Sometimes, a birth mother already has a family in mind when considering placing her baby for adoption. If you have a friend in another state that would like to adopt your child, this is allowed in most states. You can learn more about a friend adopting your baby here

How does interstate adoption work?

Now that we’ve established interstate adoption as an option, it’s time to go over this process’s details. Keep in mind that no two adoptions are identical, but this will provide an outline of what to expect. 

Fortunately, interstate adoption is not too different from intrastate adoption—adoption that takes place in the same state. You will still start by selecting an adoption agency that will guide you through this journey. As you create your adoption plan, you can specify your desire for an out of state adoption. If you choose an open or semi-open adoption, your adoption specialist will provide you with a list of families to view that are located outside of your state. The next step is to select an adoptive family for your child that you feel is the best fit.

While an interstate adoption is not as complex or lengthy as international adoption, it does come with its systems that adoptive families must navigate.   

One difference that comes into play during an interstate adoption is the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC). The purpose of the ICPC is to ensure the safety of the child being placed in a new state. 

The adoptive family must meet the ICPC requirements, which apply in all 50 states. Once the family and their home are approved, and all requirements are met, the child can be safely transported to the new state.

Learn about more adoption options with a team that’s here for you

Many loving families across the country are waiting with open arms to welcome a child. If you are looking for an out of state adoptive family, view our list of waiting families today. Feel free to contact us to see more families that we can connect you with.

Whether you are considering adoption and weighing the other options or are fully committed to this path, Texas Adoption Center is here to support you. Browse our blog for helpful information for birth mothers, and don’t hesitate to message us with any questions. We look forward to hearing from you!

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