Building Blocks of Compassion, Understanding, and Support for Families since 1985
Texas Child Adoption Home Study
WHAT IS A HOME STUDY?
A Home Study is a report prepared by a licensed social worker or licensed professional counselor prior to a child being placed in the home. It consists of a criminal background check (with fingerprints in most cases), financial review (tax returns, pay stubs), medical history check (exam, TB test, HIV test, drug test), as well as the ability of the prospective adoptive parent(s)’ to support a child’s physical and emotional needs. In some cases, a 911 call search is done on the residence, a home inspection, fire inspection, floor plan, reference letters are required as well as other miscellaneous forms depending on the counselor’s review of the application.
​WHEN WORKING WITH A HAGUE ACCREDITED AGENCY:
ABC Adoption Agency will conduct a home study for a family that is working with a Hague Accredited Agency on an international adoption. The home study, upon completion, will be submitted to the accredited agency for approval. The basic requirements listed on this website for Home Study Services will be followed.
What are the different types of Home Studies?
Texas Adoption:
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When a child is already in the home and the family has initiated adoption proceedings.
Domestic Adoption:
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When a prospective family is working with an agency outside the State of Texas and is matched with a prospective birth mother/family.
Hague International:
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When a prospective adoptive family is working on an
international adoption with a Hague-approved agency and needs a home study completed (usually because the family resides in Texas).
Stepparent Adoption:
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When a stepparent is seeking to adopt a step child. These home studies are not as invasive as other adoption but still require a child abuse clearance and criminal background check.
POST PLACEMENT SUPERVISION:
ABC Adoption Agency provides post placement supervision to families that may have adopted a child through an out of town agency but reside in San Antonio (or surrounding cities). A minimum of 5 post placement visits are normally required prior to an adoption being granted. Post-placement reports are generated and submitted to your Agency.
STEPPARENT ADOPTION HOME STUDY:
ABC Adoption Agency provides home study services for stepparent adoptions. The procedure is very similar to the home study requirements documented herein but the focus is mostly on the adopting parent although the birth parent is interviewed and takes an important role in the process.