How to Adopt a Baby in Missouri
And Everything Else You Need to Know About Adopting in MO
Becoming a parent through adoption is one of the most incredible journeys you can take. If you’re wondering how to adopt a baby in Missouri, you’re in the right place.
With the right support, you can experience the life-changing joy of bringing a child into your home. American Adoptions is here to guide you through every step of the process, offering expert services, emotional support, and the reassurance that you deserve a family.
Start your adoption journey today, take the next step toward becoming a parent by contacting us to get the support you deserve.
How to Adopt a Baby in Missouri: 5 Steps to Parenthood
Adoption makes your dream of parenthood a reality — and American Adoptions makes that path smoother, faster, and more fulfilling.
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Step 1: Contact an Adoption Agency
The first step to adopt a baby in Missouri is choosing a trusted professional. American Adoptions is a licensed, full-service agency that provides everything you need from start to finish.
Step 2: Become an Active Family
After connecting with an agency, you’ll complete an Adoption Planning Questionnaire (APQ), undergo an adoption home study, and create an adoptive family profile — helping birth mothers get to know your story.
Step 3: Be Chosen by a Prospective Birth Mother
In private domestic adoption, the prospective birth mother chooses the adoptive family. You'll have a chance to connect and build a relationship through open adoption, based on mutual comfort levels.
Step 4: Meet Your Baby: Delivery and Hospital Stay
You'll travel to the hospital to meet your baby. American Adoptions coordinates hospital plans to ensure a positive and supportive environment for everyone.
Step 5: Post-Placement Life: Living Out Your Dream of Parenthood
After placement, your adoption will be legally finalized in a Missouri court, and you'll enjoy post-placement support as you embark on your new life as a family.
Who Can Adopt a Baby in Missouri?
Eligibility to adopt varies slightly by state and agency, but here are American Adoptions' general requirements:
How American Adoptions Supports You: Why Families Trust Us
Choosing the right agency can change everything. Here’s why families trust American Adoptions:
Your choice of professional can be the difference maker in starting life with your new family and waiting longer to experience what that’s like. Get in touch with us today.
Understanding Adoption Costs in Missouri
When you adopt a baby in Missouri, costs vary but typically are broken down into fixed fees and variable costs. These fees and costs support every part of the process — from screening to placement.
At American Adoptions, we help you build a personalized budget and explore financing options like grants and loans. Most importantly, our adoption disruption insurance protects your investment — refunding lost fees if a match falls through.
Worried About Affording Adoption? You Have Options
Adoption financing options are available — from grants to loans and much more. We’re here to help you answer, "how can I afford adoption?"
- Grants: Financial awards that do not need to be repaid, typically based on need or eligibility.
- Loans: Low- or no-interest options from financial institutions or adoption-specific lenders.
- Employer Assistance: Some employers offer reimbursements or paid leave for adoption-related expenses.
- Federal Tax Credit: A nonrefundable credit that offsets qualifying adoption costs on your federal taxes.
- State Tax Credit: Missouri offers a state-specific adoption tax credit to help offset costs.
- Fundraising: Families may raise funds through personal campaigns or community events.
- Faith-Based or Community Support: Local organizations may provide financial help for adoptive families.
How Long Does it Take to Adopt a Baby in Missouri?
Most families working with American Adoptions adopt within an average of 12 months. Thanks to our extensive marketing efforts, your wait time can be significantly shorter than other agencies.
Why It’s So Important to Complete Your Home Study Early
The adoption home study is required by Missouri law before placement. Start early to avoid delays.
We offer comprehensive home study services with licensed Missouri providers. Contact us today to get your home study scheduled.
When is Adoption Finalized in Missouri?
Finalization typically occurs 6 months post-placement after a series of post-placement visits.
Other Adoption Laws in Missouri
- Home Study: Must be completed by a licensed provider
- ICWA: Protects the rights of Native American children
- ICPC: Governs interstate placements
- PACAs: Not legally enforceable in Missouri, but highly encouraged
Adoption Attorneys Near Me
Different Types of Adoption in Missouri
FAQ About Adopting a Baby in Missouri
Can birth mothers change their mind in Missouri?
Yes. In Missouri, birth parents can change their mind any time before they legally terminate their parental rights.
Is there an adoption tax credit in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri offers a state adoption tax credit. You may also qualify for the federal adoption tax credit.
Is it hard for a gay couple to adopt a baby?
No. American Adoptions proudly works with LGBTQ+ families.
Are adoptive parents on the birth certificate in Missouri?
Yes. Once the adoption is finalized, your names will appear on the amended birth certificate.
Are open adoptions legally enforceable in Missouri?
No, but American Adoptions requires a Post-Adoption Contact Agreement (PACA) to ensure open adoption communication even though it's not legally binding.
Don’t Wait Any Longer – Adopt a Baby in Missouri Today
Your dream of holding your child is closer than you think. American Adoptions is ready to walk with you every step of the way, offering expertise, emotional support, and a proven pathway to success.
You deserve a family. We can help you achieve it — starting today.
Our Offices in Missouri
- American Adoptions — St. Louis Office
- American Adoptions — Kansas City Office
- American Adoptions — Springfield Office
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.