Adoption is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. It’s a journey built on love, patience, and hope—but it can also come with complex financial considerations. Between agency fees, legal expenses, travel, and ongoing care needs, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to expect.

At Members First Credit Union, we believe every family deserves clear information and compassionate support to help them plan for major life milestones. Understanding the costs of adoption is the first step toward creating a financial plan that helps your family grow with confidence.

• Domestic infant adoption: Costs for domestic adoptions are in the middle of the range and include home studies, legal fees, and agency costs.
• International adoption: This is the most expensive option, depending on the country, travel, and documentation requirements.

• Foster-to-adopt: Foster family adoptions are usually the least expensive option, with many costs covered or reimbursed by the state.

It’s important to remember that while the costs may seem high, there are ways to plan, save, and receive assistance that make adoption achievable for many families.

Families in New Hampshire have access to programs designed to make adoption more affordable. The state provides adoption and guardianship assistance to help cover certain expenses and offers ongoing support for eligible families, particularly those adopting children from foster care.

These benefits may include reimbursement for nonrecurring adoption costs (such as legal and court fees) and monthly maintenance payments to help with the child’s needs. To learn more about available programs and eligibility, visit the Child Welfare Information Gateway’s New Hampshire Adoption Assistance page.

You may also be eligible for the Federal Adoption Tax Credit, which can offset qualifying adoption expenses up to the annual IRS limit. Combined with state and local support, these programs can help make adoption financially attainable for more families.

A thoughtful financial plan can help reduce stress and give you more time to focus on what matters most: welcoming your new family member home. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Build a dedicated adoption fund.
Open a Members First savings account specifically for adoption-related expenses. Even small, consistent contributions can add up over time.

2. Review your current budget.
Look for areas where you can temporarily reduce expenses or redirect funds toward your adoption goal. Members First budgeting calculators can help you identify opportunities to save.

3. Explore financing options.
Some families use personal loans or home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) to cover adoption expenses in manageable installments. Our team can help you understand your options and determine what works best for your situation.

4. Plan for post-adoption costs.
Beyond the adoption process itself, consider future expenses such as healthcare, childcare, and education. Building an emergency fund and long-term savings plan can help you stay prepared.

We’re Here for Every Type of Family

Every adoption story is unique, and every family deserves support that meets them where they are. Whether you’re just beginning your research or preparing to welcome a child home, Members First Credit Union is here to guide you with compassion and care.

From personalized financial advice to flexible savings and loan options, our goal is to make your adoption journey less overwhelming and more empowering.

Take the Next Step

If you’re exploring adoption, now is the perfect time to start planning your financial path:

• Review your current savings and create an adoption fund.
• Schedule a conversation with a Members First representative to explore your financing options.
• Learn more about the financial tools and resources available to support your family’s goals.

Adoption is an act of love—and with the right financial plan, it’s a dream that’s within reach.