Who is Qualified to Adopt a Child?

For some people, adoption is a blessing. It allows those who aren't able to conceive a child naturally to have a child of their own. It also lets children who have lost their parents an opportunity to be raised in a family. But adoption is no light matter, and it takes a long process to ensure the well being of both the child and the parents. Perhaps the most common question is “who is qualified to adopt a child”?

Age

Perhaps the most common and definite qualification for adoption is that the parent should be at least 21. The age gap between the prospective parents and the child varies depending on the state, but generally, the parent should be mature enough to take care of the child and young enough to raise the child well into young adulthood.

Sex, Orientation, and Marital Status

Technically, there are no prohibitions regarding the sex, orientation, and marital status when it comes to adopting a child. Male or female, straight or gay, married or single, an adult should be able to adopt a child. However, some people may find it easier to adopt than others. A heterosexual married couple are usually the ones who find it easiest to adopt since that is the usual configuration of a family. Other than that, adoption courts are somewhat very cautious as they try to look at the “best interests” of the child.

Race and Culture

An adult can adopt a child whether or not they belong to the same ethnic background or race. However, decisions usually favor adoption within the same color as much as possible. In some areas, children of color may be easier to adopt because they may not be as “in demand” as white children. Parents who have no preference about the race of their adoptive child usually find it easier to get matched.

Financial Status

There are no specified income level to be qualified to adopt. However, the parent should be able to earn enough to support the new family. Prospective parents who are struggling to support themselves are most likely not considered for adoption.

Homeownership

Prospective parents don't necessarily have to own their own house. What is important is that they can provide a nurturing environment for the child.

Adoption is a serious matter, and because of such, there are really no set checklists to determine who is qualified to adopt. What is done instead are individualized evaluations to see if adoptive parents are indeed capable of raising children. This way, the safety of each adopted child is ensured.