Do You Get Financial Help for Adoption in Georgia?
Adopting a child is a life-changing experience that brings immense joy. If you're considering adoption in Georgia, you may be wondering: “Do I get financial help for adoption?” The good news is that there are several financial resources available to help you manage the costs of adoption. From state adoption assistance programs to federal adoption tax credits and employer benefits, there are numerous options designed to make adoption more affordable for families.
This guide covers the financial help for adopting a child in Georgia, including tax credits, state subsidies, grants, loans, and employer benefits, so you can better plan for the costs associated with adoption.
Financial Help for Adoption in Georgia
The average cost of adoption in Georgia can vary widely depending on the type of adoption you pursue. With factors such as agency fees, legal fees, and medical expenses contributing to the overall cost, the average domestic adoption can range anywhere from $40-80k. However, the state and federal programs designed to provide financial help for adoption can significantly reduce this burden.
Federal and State Adoption Tax Credits
One of the most significant forms of financial help for adoptive parents is the adoption tax credit. This federal tax credit helps offset adoption costs by allowing you to claim a credit against your federal taxes. For the 2025 tax year, the credit is up to $15,000 per child for qualified adoption expenses, including agency fees, legal costs, and travel expenses.
Key Points About the Adoption Tax Credit:
- It applies to both domestic and international adoptions.
- The credit is non-refundable, meaning it can only reduce the amount of tax you owe, but it can’t create a refund.
- The adoption must be finalized before you can claim the credit.
- You can claim the tax credit on your tax return using IRS Form 8839.
In addition to the federal adoption tax credit, Georgia also offers a state adoption tax deduction. This deduction can help reduce the amount of taxable income in Georgia. Unlike a tax credit, a deduction only reduces your income for tax purposes, potentially lowering your tax bill.
Key Differences Between a Tax Credit and a Tax Deduction:
- Tax Credit: Directly reduces the taxes you owe. This is a more valuable financial benefit.
- Tax Deduction: Reduces your taxable income, which may lower your tax bill but by a lesser amount than a tax credit.
Keep in mind that if your itemized deductions are less than the standard deduction, it may not be worth claiming the adoption tax deduction.
Employer Adoption Benefits
Another form of financial assistance for adoption comes from your employer. Many companies offer adoption benefits, including adoption expense reimbursement and paid leave. These benefits are designed to help employees manage the costs and time off associated with adopting a child.
Some Common Employer Adoption Benefits Include:
Adoption expense reimbursement – Companies may reimburse employees for adoption-related costs, including agency fees and legal expenses.
- Paid or unpaid adoption leave – Some employers provide paid leave for employees during the adoption process, while others offer unpaid leave for bonding with the child.
- Flexible work arrangements – Employers may offer flexible work schedules or remote work options to accommodate the adoption process.
Be sure to check with your HR department to see if your employer offers any adoption benefits.
Grants and Loans for Adoption
In addition to tax benefits and employer programs, there are also several adoption grants and loans available to help families with adoption costs.
When researching adoption loans, compare terms and rates and make sure the monthly payment is within your family’s budget. Some adoptive families also explore personal loans or home equity loans as potential financing options.
Adoption Grants and Loans:
- Gift of Adoption Fund – Offers grants regardless of race, religion, or marital status.
- HelpUsAdopt.org – Offers grants of up to $15,000 to families with financial need.
- National Adoption Foundation – Provides grants and other fundraising tools for adoptive families.
- JSC Foundation – Provides Christian-based adoption grants.
- Lifesong for Orphans – Offers matching grants and interest-free loans, often through church partnerships.
State Adoption Assistance Programs
Georgia residents adopting children with special needs may be eligible for state adoption subsidies. The Georgia Adoption Assistance Program offers financial help for families adopting children who are in foster care or children with special needs. The program provides subsidies that help cover expenses such as:
- Medical care and insurance
- Special education or therapy services
- Ongoing counseling and support services
To qualify for these subsidies, the child must be adopted from Georgia's foster care system and meet specific eligibility requirements.
Contact American Adoptions of Georgia
Understanding the financial help available for adoption can simplify the process of how to afford adoption and ensure a smooth journey. Whether you're looking into tax credits, employer benefits, adoption grants, or loans, there are numerous resources in Georgia to assist with the cost of adoption.
If you’re ready to learn more about adoption in Georgia or need assistance navigating the financial help available, contact American Adoptions of Georgia today. We’re here to guide you through every step of the adoption process.
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.