Adoption

AAN is proud to recognize
the following organizations
for their continuing support:

Royal Arch Masons

Advice to the Family
An Adoption Checklist for Children in the Public System

1. Prior to committing to a child . . .

      a. Become familiar with your state adoption laws.
      b. Receive and review all child study information and background information on child(ren).
      c. Talk to the social worker/agency to answer any questions on the child(ren).
      d. Find out subsidy rates of the state where the child is.
      e. Find out from the custodial agency when pre-placement visitations with the child will be
         and the requirements of the visitations.

2. Prior to placement of child in home . . .

      a. Ask to speak to the foster parent(s) of the child if possible to ask additional questions.
      b. Work out exact amount of subsidy and Medicaid coverage for the child with the custodial
          agency. Make sure you have understanding with the custodial agency on when the
          payments will begin.
      c. Have the supervision arrangements finalized; who will be providing supervision services,
          what will be the requirements of supervision, how many visits, etc.
      d. Find out requirements of filing One Time Non-Reoccurring Adoption Expenses and the total
          amount the state where the child is located will reimburse.
      e. Make sure ICPC (Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children) was completed by the
          custodial agency and the agency that will provide post placement supervision. In most
          adoption circumstances, both states have to agree to the placement prior to the child
          coming home.
       f. Research the resources in your community available for the child.

3. After placement and prior to finalization . . .

       a. If the state requires filing of the One Time Non-Reoccurring Adoption Expenses prior to
           finalization, submit all the paperwork needed.
       b. Make sure you have the court costs and attorney’s fees calculated early so you can
           include them in your request.

4. Additional information resources to aid the family . . .

Visit one of the following websites for additional information regarding special needs adoption:

www.naic.acf.hhs.gov National Adoption Information Clearinghouse
www.nacac.org North American Council on Adoptable Children
www.cwla.org Child Welfare League of America
www.familyvillage.wisc.edu Family Village - directory of links related to specific disabilities

Adopt America Network
1500 N. Superior Street, Suite 303
Toledo, Ohio 43604

Toll Free: 1-800-246-1731
Main office phone: 419-726-5100
Fax: 419-726-5067