If you are pregnant and considering adoption, you might be wondering, “Do I get paid for adoption?” Often this question comes to mind because you’re worrying about how to cover the cost of pregnancy. You know that medical costs can be significant and that you might have trouble keeping up with school or work — or maybe you’re doing both — as time goes on. Sometimes there are added challenges: if you were living with your boyfriend or your parents, the pregnancy might change those relationships and leave you unsure how you’ll pay your rent. Financial anxiety can greatly increase the stress of pregnancy and of making the major life decisions it entails.
So…do I get paid for adoption?
The simple answer to this one is “No.” Placing a child for adoption is not like surrogacy — it’s not a job for which you can be paid. And it is entirely illegal to buy or sell human beings, so the law is very clear that you cannot be paid for a baby.
But the answer to the underlying question — can you get help with your expanses during your pregnancy? — is yes.
In Arkansas, adoptive parents are allowed to provide financial assistance for the birth mother of a child they adopt.
The adoption professionals you work with can also help you identify community resources or government programs that can provide help with medical costs and living expenses.
If I accept financial support, can I keep my baby?
Arkansas law is clear on this point. You have up to 10 days after the birth of the baby to decide whether to parent or to place your child for adoption. Any financial support you receive will not change that. You have not sold a baby; you’ve accepted help in good faith from the family that you expect will provide a loving, stable home for your child.
Everyone involved in the adoption knows that it is possible, and entirely legal, for a birth mom to change her mind. This should not be a factor in your decision-making at all.
So the answer to this question is n is no, you can’t be paid for adoption, but you can receive help and support. Heimer Law specializes in adoption, and we can answer your questions about the adoption journey. Call us at (479) 225.9725 or use our simple form below.
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