Because the speed of your approval depends entirely on the professional you choose, our digital process allows you to avoid the unnecessary delays of outdated, manual systems.

Start your Georgia home study today with a team that respects your time and dreams of parenthood.

Understanding the Georgia Requirements

In Georgia, the law is specific: your home study must include at least three separate visits, with at least one occurring in your home. Every member of your household will be interviewed to ensure everyone is prepared for the new addition.

The Efficiency Advantage

We believe your time is valuable. Unlike traditional agencies that ask you to mail physical copies of tax returns or health records, we utilize a smart organization system. Our secure online portal tells you exactly what documents are needed and allows you to upload them instantly. You get real-time progress updates, ensuring you never have to guess where you stand in the process.

Step 1: Documentation and Background Checks

The foundation of the home study is paperwork. This phase verifies your identity and stability. You will need to provide:

• Background Checks: Georgia requires criminal record checks (GCIC) and federal fingerprint clearances for all household members age 18 and older.
• Health and Financial Records: Recent medical statements and proof of income to verify you can support a child long-term.
• References: You will need at least three letters of recommendation. Georgia has specific requirements here: at least one must come from a non-resident family member, and if you have worked with children in the past five years, a reference from that employer is also required.

Step 2: The In-Home Visit

Your social worker will visit your home to ensure it is a safe environment. This is not about having a spotless house; it is about safety features.

Common safety checks include:

• Working smoke detectors on every level.
• Secure storage for firearms (locked in a safe).
• Safe storage for hazardous materials like cleaning supplies and medicines.
• Childproofing measures like outlet covers and stair gates.
• Pool Safety: If you have a pool, it must be isolated from the home by a fence at least four feet high with a locking gate.

We provide a preparation checklist before the visit so you can address any safety concerns ahead of time, ensuring a smooth inspection.

Step 3: Interviews and Education

The interview process is designed to get to know you as individuals and as a family. Your social worker will discuss your motivation to adopt, your parenting style, and your understanding of adoption dynamics.

This is also an educational opportunity. We help prepare you for the realities of raising an adopted child, including how to handle questions about their story and how to maintain healthy relationships with birth parents.

How Long Will My Home Study Take in Georgia?

Families in Georgia typically complete their home study in an average of 30-60 days, depending on their pace. We strive to eliminate delays and keep your process moving.

Our Georgia services provide:

• Fast Approval: We are focused on getting you approved quickly.
• Comprehensive Service: We cover the entire state of Georgia.
• ICPC Approval: Your home study will be accepted in any state you adopt from.

Are American Adoptions' Home Studies Faster Than Other Agencies?

Yes. Our team's expertise allows us to conduct home studies quickly and efficiently, preventing the common slowdowns found with other providers.

• Streamlined Experience: We ensure your home study meets all requirements efficiently.
• Unified Process: For even faster timelines, choosing us for the entire adoption process removes the need to coordinate with multiple professionals.

How Much Will My Home Study Cost in Georgia?

For families in Georgia, the home study investment includes:

• Application Fee ($250): Covers the initial application review and case opening.

• Initial Home Study Fee ($1,300): This fee covers the professional home study service, including the home visit, interviews, safety check, and document review.

• Additional Expenses: Be aware that travel costs for the social worker, background check fees, and post-placement visits are charged separately.

The Benefit of National Reach

Many Georgia families match with birth mothers who live in other states. This is where working with an inadequate local-only agency can cause delays.

50-State Readiness

If you adopt a child from Florida, Texas, California, or any other state than Georgia, your home study must comply with that state's laws as well. Because American Adoptions operates nationally, we review your home study to ensure it meets interstate compact (ICPC) standards. This proactive approach prevents last-minute legal hurdles that could delay you from bringing your baby home.

American Adoptions Offices in Georgia

We are proud to serve families across Georgia with local offices to support your journey:

• Atlanta: 1000 Parkwood Cir SE, Suite 900, Atlanta, GA 30339
• Decatur: 1 West Court Square, Suite 750, Decatur, GA 30030
• Fayetteville: 320 W. Lanier Ave, Suite 200, Fayetteville, GA 30214

Georgia Home Study FAQ

How long is a Georgia home study valid?

In Georgia, a home study is valid for one year (12 months) from the date of completion. If you have not been placed with a child within that year, you will need to update your home study. This involves a visit from your social worker and updating your financial and medical information to ensure your file remains current.

What are the specific requirements for references?

Georgia law requires at least three references. Uniquely, one of these must be from a family member who does not live with you. Additionally, if you have worked or volunteered with children in the last five years, you must provide a reference from that organization or employer.

Do I need a fence around my pool?

Yes. Georgia safety standards for adoption generally require that any swimming pool (in-ground or above-ground) be enclosed by a fence that is at least four feet high. The gate must be self-closing and self-latching to prevent unsupervised access by a child.

Who needs background checks in my home?

All adults (age 18 and older) living in the household must undergo comprehensive background checks. This includes a GBI (Georgia Bureau of Investigation) fingerprint check, an FBI check, and a clearance from the Georgia Child Abuse Registry.

Moving Forward

You don't have to navigate Georgia's home study alone. You deserve a partner who is licensed, efficient, and deeply invested in your family's future.

Contact American Adoptions today to begin your home study and become a parent faster.

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