Adoption is one of the most powerful ways to grow a family—but it often comes with financial questions.
If you’re wondering how much it costs to adopt in Texas, the answer depends largely on the type of adoption and the services involved.
In this guide, we break down the costs of different types of adoption in Texas and what expenses you should plan for along the way.
AVERAGE ADOPTION COSTS IN TEXAS BY TYPE
| Type of Adoption | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Stepparent Adoption | $500 – $5,000 |
| Kinship Adoption | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Foster Care Adoption | $0 – $2,500 (often reimbursed) |
| Private Infant Adoption | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| International Adoption | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Adult Adoption | $500 – $2,000 |
The cost of adoption in Texas varies significantly depending on whether you are working with a private agency, adopting from foster care, or filing independently through the court system.
BREAKING DOWN COMMON ADOPTION EXPENSES
Regardless of the type of adoption, many families encounter the following costs:
Court Filing Fees
Expect to pay $300–$400 in most counties for the initial petition and related court filings.
Home Study
Most adoptions require a home study conducted by a licensed social worker. This typically costs between $1,000 and $2,500.
Legal Fees
Attorney fees can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case. For uncontested stepparent adoptions, legal costs may be minimal. For private or international cases, they can range from $2,500 to $10,000.
Birth Parent Expenses (Private Adoption)
In a private adoption, the adoptive family may cover the birth mother’s medical expenses, counseling, and reasonable living costs—anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
Travel and Lodging (if applicable)
Families adopting outside their city or internationally may incur travel costs related to hospital stays, court hearings, or agency meetings.
LOW- OR NO-COST ADOPTION OPTIONS IN TEXAS
Foster Care Adoption
Adopting from the Texas foster care system is the most affordable route. Most costs—such as home studies, court fees, and legal expenses—are covered or reimbursed by the state.
In addition, qualifying families may receive:
- Monthly adoption subsidies
- Medicaid for the child
- Free college tuition at Texas public institutions
- One-time reimbursement of up to $1,200 in adoption-related expenses
Adult Adoption
Adopting someone over 18 is a relatively quick and low-cost process in Texas. It usually involves just a filing fee and minimal attorney costs.
FEDERAL AND STATE FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Federal Adoption Tax Credit
Families may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $15,000+ (adjusted annually) to offset qualified adoption expenses. This credit is available for domestic and international adoptions, with some restrictions for stepparent adoptions.
Employer Benefits
Some employers offer adoption assistance, including reimbursement programs or paid leave. Be sure to check your benefits package for potential support.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is adoption ever free in Texas?
Yes. Foster care adoptions are often free, and qualifying families may even receive financial assistance from the state.
Can I adopt without hiring a lawyer?
You can file for adoption without an attorney in simple, uncontested cases such as adult or stepparent adoptions, but legal guidance is strongly recommended for complex or private adoptions.
Does insurance cover adoption costs?
Health insurance does not cover adoption costs, but it may cover prenatal or delivery expenses for the birth mother in certain situations.
Are adoption expenses tax deductible?
Yes. Many adoption-related costs qualify for the federal adoption tax credit.
FINAL THOUGHTS
So, how much is it to adopt in Texas?
It can range from a few hundred dollars to over $50,000, depending on your adoption path. Whether you’re pursuing foster care, kinship, private, or international adoption, knowing the costs—and the financial resources available—can help you make informed and confident decisions.
Considering Adoption? Let Us Guide You.
Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand the legal process, navigate costs, and move forward with confidence in your adoption journey.
Bryan Fagan is a Texas family law attorney with a heart for adoption—inspired not just by his legal career, but by his own family story. Growing up in Atascocita with two adopted brothers, Bryan learned early the profound meaning of chosen family. His passion for justice was sparked by John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief, and he became the first lawyer in his family, balancing night classes at South Texas College of Law while caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s.
Today, Bryan brings that same dedication to his practice, guiding families through adoptions, custody disputes, divorces, and complex marital agreements. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, he combines elite legal expertise with genuine empathy—drawing from his roles as a husband, father of three, and advocate for families facing false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is actively involved in the Houston Bar Association’s Family Law Sector and statewide family law organizations. Whether finalizing an adoption or protecting parental rights, he believes the law should reflect the deepest values of home, commitment, and love.