How to Adopt a Baby in Indiana
You deserve a family. That dream of holding your baby, watching first steps, and building memories together? It's possible—and closer than you think. If you’re wondering how to adopt a baby in Indiana, this guide is your first step toward turning that dream into reality.
With American Adoptions, a full-service national agency licensed in Indiana, you can navigate the journey with expert guidance, emotional support, and unmatched peace of mind.
Imagine holding your baby. Take the first step toward making that a reality by contacting us today.
How to Adopt a Baby in Indiana: 5 Steps to Parenthood
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No two adoptions look exactly alike. Your choices will shape your journey, but here are five common steps hopeful adoptive families follow when adopting a baby in Indiana:
Step 1: Contact an Adoption Agency
Start by connecting with a licensed adoption professional. Working with a reputable agency like American Adoptions ensures that your journey is ethical, legal, and supported by experienced professionals.
Schedule your free adoption consultation today.
Step 2: Become an Active Family
You’ll fill out an Adoption Planning Questionnaire (APQ), complete a home study, and create an adoptive family profile that birth mothers will view. These steps make you "active," meaning you are eligible to be chosen.
Step 3: Be Chosen by a Prospective Birth Mother
Expectant mothers choose the family they feel best about. With American Adoptions’ nationwide marketing reach, you’ll have more opportunities to be matched faster.
Step 4: Meet Your Baby: Delivery and Hospital Stay
When the big day arrives, you'll meet your baby in the hospital. American Adoptions helps coordinate this emotional milestone with care and respect for all involved.
Step 5: Post-Placement Life: Living Out Your Dream of Parenthood
After placement, you’ll finalize the adoption in Indiana court. You can also maintain contact with your child’s birth family through an open adoption agreement, if desired.
Who Can Adopt a Baby in Indiana?
To adopt in Indiana, you must meet our requirements which include
These standards ensure safety, stability, and the best outcomes for children.
Why Choose American Adoptions for Your Indiana Adoption?
The professional you work with directly impacts adopting a baby in Indiana.
Choosing American Adoptions means working with a full-service, national adoption agency that has everything you need to complete your adoption. All under one roof. From your first call to finalization, we handle it all.
Get the support you deserve and fill out our online contact form today to get that much closer to growing your family through adoption.
Understanding Adoption Costs in Indiana
Adoption costs are comprised of various expenses, some fixed and some variable such as:
Working with us means we’ll factor in all of these variables when presenting you with an adoption opportunity so you know what the cost estimate will be upfront.
We understand what planning for these costs entails and giving you this information as soon as possible can help you be confident in your budget moving forward.
That’s also why we protect you from disruptions. Learn how our adoption disruption insurance gives you financial peace of mind.
Worried About Affording Adoption? You Have Options
Cost is one of the biggest concerns for adoptive families. If you don’t know how you can afford adoption, there are a number of financial resources that can help such as:
How Long Does it Take to Adopt a Baby in Indiana?
With American Adoptions, most families adopt in an average of 12 months. Here’s why:
Why It’s So Important to Complete Your Home Study Early
The home study is more than just paperwork—it’s the foundation of a safe, successful adoption. This vital step involves background checks, home inspections, personal interviews, and documentation that prove you’re emotionally and practically prepared to welcome a child into your life.
Because the home study can be time-consuming and is required before you can be matched with a birth parent to adopt a baby in Indiana, beginning this process right away helps you avoid unnecessary wait times and keeps your adoption moving forward.
At American Adoptions, we offer comprehensive home study services in Indiana. As a licensed agency, we follow all state requirements to ensure your home study is accurate, complete, and fully compliant. Our experienced professionals streamline the process, guiding you through every step to minimize delays and reduce stress.
Learn more about home studies with our agency.
When is Adoption Finalized in Indiana?
In Indiana, adoption is finalized during a court hearing that typically takes place several months after placement. This process confirms the legal transfer of parental rights and officially recognizes you as your child’s legal parent.
Before finalization, you’ll complete a series of post-placement visits conducted by a licensed social worker. These visits help ensure that your child is adjusting well and that your home continues to be a safe and supportive environment. Once these visits are completed and all legal documents are in order, your adoption professional or attorney will help schedule your finalization hearing.
The hearing usually occurs in your county’s probate or juvenile court, where a judge will review your case, ask a few questions, and issue the final decree of adoption. This decree grants you all legal rights and responsibilities as your child’s parent.
Other Indiana Adoption Laws to Know
Adoption Attorneys Near Me
Here are some Indiana-based attorneys who can assist you:
- Kirsh & Kirsh, P.C. (Indianapolis)
- Herrin & Leach (Indianapolis)
Different Types of Adoption in Indiana and How They Compare to Private Adoption
FAQ About Adopting a Baby in Indiana
Can birth mothers change their mind?
Yes, until she signs the consent to adoption after birth as well as 30 days within that signing in Indiana.
Is there an adoption tax credit?
Yes, Indiana offers a state tax credit of up to $2,500 for qualifying adoption expenses.
Can LGBTQ+ couples adopt?
Yes. American Adoptions welcomes all families.
Are adoptive parents on the birth certificate?
Yes. Once the adoption is finalized, your name appears on the amended birth certificate.
Are open adoptions legally enforceable?
No. Open adoption agreements can be made, but they are not legally binding under state law. We strongly encourage open adoption and provide support to help both parties maintain healthy, ongoing communication.
Don’t Wait Any Longer – Adopt a Baby in Indiana Today
You deserve a family—and you've waited long enough. With American Adoptions, the path to parenthood is clear, supported, and achievable.
Our Offices in Indiana
- 9465 Counselors Row #200
- Indianapolis, Indiana 46240
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