Adoption Assistance by State

The adoption assistance database was launched in 2005, based on information provided by the Association of Administrators of the Interstate Compact on Adoption and Medical Assistance (AAICAMA), and is updated on a periodic basis. In 2018-2019, its content underwent an indepth review and revision to reflect specific changes in State policies. Select one of two options: A) Select a State to view the answers to 13 questions regarding State policies on adoption assistance and postadoption services, or B) Select a question to find out how it is addressed across all States.

Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information included in the adoption assistance database is accurate and current, additional details may be found in State Statutes, State Administrative Codes, and/or State agency websites, which can be accessed through Information Gateway’s State Statutes Search page by selecting: Links to State and Tribal Child Welfare Law and Policy. State-specific policy-related inquiries should be directed to the State Adoption Assistance Specialist. Other resources on adoption and postadoption assistance programs include our State Guides and Manuals, the Post Adoption and Permanency Support Services related organization list, and the North American Council of Adoptable Children. If you are aware of any changes to existing policy, please contact Information Gateway at info@childwelfare.gov.

Option A: Select a State
Select a state to view answers to 13 questions regarding State adoption assistance.

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Select the "GO!" button to conduct your search.

Option B: Select a Question
Select a question below to find out how all States address the issue. You may select only one question at a time.

Who is Eligible for Adoption Assistance?

1. What specific factors or conditions does your State consider to determine that a child cannot be placed with an adoptive family without providing financial assistance? ("What is your State definition of special needs?")

2. What are the eligibility criteria for your State-funded adoption assistance program?

3. What is the maximum amount a family may receive in non-recurring adoption expenses from your State? (Adoptive parents can receive reimbursement of certain approved, "one-time" adoption expenses incurred in the process of finalizing a special needs adoption.)

4. Does your State enter into deferred adoption assistance agreements? (In some States, adoptive parents can enter into an agreement in which they choose to defer the receipt of a Medicaid card, the monthly monetary payment, or both and can elect to receive the Medicaid card and/or monetary payment at another time.)

5. When may adoption assistance payments and benefits begin in your State?

6. How are changes made to the adoption assistance agreement in your State?

Post Adoption Services
7. What types of postadoption services are available in your State, and how do you find out more about them?

Medical Assistance
8. What mental health services are provided by your State?

9. Does your State provide additional finances or services for medical or therapeutic needs not covered under your State medical plan to children receiving adoption assistance?

Fair Hearings
10. What is your State's process for applying for a fair hearing? (A fair hearing is a legal, administrative procedure that provides a forum to address disagreements with agency decisions.)

Web/Internet Links
11. What is your State Web address for general adoption information?

12. What is your State Web address for adoption assistance information?

13. What is your State Web address for State-specific medical assistance information for children?