Unsurprisingly, there are many similar questions that someone should ask an agency whether they are interested in fostering or adopting. However, if you specifically seek to adopt, your questions will be geared with permanency in mind. Consider asking the following questions to help you evaluate the agency’s program and make the best decision for your family.
1. What steps are part of your agency’s process?
Make a list of specific steps you have questions about. For example, you may want to know more about the orientation, application, home assessment/home study, or parenting classes. After that, ask the estimated time frames involved for each step. For instance, how long does it typically take to become certified/approved to be an adoptive parent?
2. Can you tell me more about your license?
Make sure the agency is licensed. If you are interviewing a private agency, ask them when the last time was that the agency was visited by a representative from the State’s Licensing Division. Additionally, if you plan to adopt from another country, ask whether the agency is authorized to facilitate international adoptions.
3. Have any complaints been filed against your agency?
It is important to know whether there have been any issues with an agency in the past. So, be bold in asking about former complaints. And if there have been complaints, ask how they were resolved. In most states, the licensing file is available for inspection (by appointment).
4. Can you tell me more about the staff’s education, background, and experience in adoption?
You will work closely with the agency as you move through the adoption process. Therefore, it is crucial that you feel comfortable with the staff. Equally important, you want to feel heard and supported.
5. What are the costs?
Ask about anticipated costs. Specifically, ask about fees for the screening, orientation meeting, home study, supervisory visits, court reports, educational groups, services to and expenses in connection with birth parents in designated adoptions, extra work in connection with interstate placement, extra personnel and services in international adoption, and other possible expenses. In addition to this, obtain written detailed information on all costs involved, including the agency’s refund policy.
6. What support services does your agency offer for adoptive families?
Ask if the agency facilitates support groups or offers post-finalization services. Undoubtedly, support is critical for adoptive families. Unlike foster care, which may be temporary, adoption is a permanent arrangement. Thus, you will want to have continuous support in place.
7. Can we speak with any adoptive parents?
If possible, connect with other adoptive parents and ask about their experience with the agency. These families may also be able to shed light on the support and resources the agency provides. Without a doubt, a firsthand account of an agency from another family can provide you with a helpful perspective.