When you have an out-of-state adoption, what additional fees and expenses will you see?

There are so many little things -- attorneys, agencies, social workers, ICPC, travel, etc. What kinds of expenses can you expect to see if you plan for an out-of-state adoption?

Good for you for thinking ahead.

Travel: Plane tickets or RV....that is the question. Either way, these are by far the biggest expenses. TIP #1 If you're booking airline tix, think about "Cancel for Any Reason" travel insurance (https://www.travelinsurancereview.net/2011/12/09/the-best-travel-insurance-for-an-adoption-trip/) in case of an emergency, or a disruption of any kind.

Living: ICPC says to be prepared to spend 2-3 weeks in your child's birth state. That said, we were able to fly home with our son on Day 6, and our daughter on Day 9. Housing, rental car, food (for you and your new baby), and of course, diapers... it all adds up. TIP #1 Before you book a place, lean our your network. You never know when someone will know a friend-of-a-friend with a place you can stay for free! TIP #2 If you're renting a place to stay through AirBnB or VRBO... tell the host why you're coming. People love to part of a happy story! When we told our host, she replied with, "I'm adopted!" and she cut our rate in half (and stopped by the house with food once we were home from the hospital). Almost everyone can relate to how big of a trip this is for you!

Medical: There may be some additional medical costs for your baby (if the birth state is outside your health insurance network). For example, we needed to have our son's 5-day appointment in Michigan (out of our network). Definitely call your insurance company prior to leaving to check out what's available. And ask your employer about Carrot Fertility (from what I hear, they are very good at adoption coverage).

Anything I missed?

Last updated 2 years ago