One good reason to decide that you are not ready to parent is that the cost of pregnancy, birth, and raising a child is just too high for your budget now. Recognizing that the sacrifices — for you and your child — would be too stressful is a loving, mature decision. But we know that expectant moms considering adoption also worry that the cost of having the baby and arranging for adoption would be too expensive. Fortunately, that is not the case. What will placing your baby in a stable, loving home cost you and what expenses are covered by someone else?
Putting a baby up for adoption
There is no cost for putting a baby up for adoption. Arkansas moms can choose the family they’d like to see their baby join, choose their adoption plan, and make their own decisions about their future lives. There are no expenses involved with any of these choices.
Pregnancy, birth, and delivery
There are public resources for pregnant women in Arkansas, and the adoptive parents you choose are also allowed to help with medical costs.
It’s very important to see a doctor as soon as you know you’re pregnant, so that your prenatal care will begin as soon as possible. This is important for your health and for the health of your baby. Don’t let concerns about cost keep you from receiving the care you need.
Cost of living
In Arkansas, adoptive parents are allowed to help with the financial needs of their adopted child’s mom. The rules about this are very strict, though. They could not, for example, buy you a car or do anything that looks like they’re buying something from you.
They can, however, help out with rent, groceries, and other necessary living expenses. The arrangements should be made through your lawyers and you may be required to provide records, rental agreements, or other evidence. However, you do not need to negotiate or ask for money. As long as you and the adoptive family follow the laws around financial support, you can feel confident about focusing on your health and the baby’s health during your pregnancy. Without the stress of meeting your basic needs, it will be easier to have a healthy pregnancy.
Costs after the baby is born
Most adoptions these days are open adoptions, with arrangements for some kind of continued contact between you and the child. However, the costs of visiting your child or otherwise keeping in touch will be your responsibility. After you have finished your postpartum care, no further costs are generally covered red. In fact, adoptive parents can find themselves in trouble if they continue to provide financial support.
Counseling is recommended during pregnancy, and what your future life looks like is one of the topics to discuss.
Heimer Law is a family law firm specializing in adoption. With extensive experience and a heart for adoption, we can answer your questions with no obligation to you. Call us at (479) 225.9725 or use the simple form below.
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