The Home Study

The home study is just what it says...a study of your home. Yes, but what is it? Basically, it's a detailed, written report on your family & home life compiled by a social worker. It includes family background, the neighborhood you live in, your physical health, financial statements, criminal clearances, references, interviews...the list goes on. The amount of information required is rather daunting & you begin to wonder why every parent isn't required to jump through this many hoops before they have kids. On the one hand, it's reassuring that someone is making sure an adopted child is placed in a good home...on the other hand, it seems invasive & unecessary, especially if you already have a child. The home study can take several weeks to several months; while the home visit itself is generally completed quickly, the criminal clearances are what take the most time. Naturally, this is not a free service, either; home studies generally cost between $500-$3,000, althought this is calculated as part of the overall adoption cost of $30k+. And, guess what else? EVERY STATE IS DIFFERENT. Some states allow an independent social worker to perform a home study, while others require a licensed agency. If you're adopting within the state the home study is conducted, no problem. But what happens when you're adopting across state lines...or internationally? That's where it gets complicated. A great, general source I came across is here, (linked to with permission from the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse.) I've been unable to find a site online, however, that lists home study requirements by state, so it's best to consult a licensed adoption attorney before proceeding with the home study.