Can a single person adopt a child? This is a question that many consider in the adoption community, and the simple answer is yes. Still, there are some things you’ll need to know before you start the process.
This article will debunk the common myth that you must be married to adopt. We’ll also discuss the obstacles and factors to consider with single-parent adoption in Texas.
Can Single People Adopt?
A common misconception in the adoption community is that you must be married or in a committed relationship to adopt a child. Fortunately, this is far from the truth. Plenty of single parents have had the opportunity to love, support, and raise adoptive children throughout the United States. In 2017 alone, nearly 17,000 single parents adopted a child.
Because there is a growing need for more stable and loving homes, single-parent adoption has become quite common in the past several years. Adoption centers across the United States work with single parents to create beautiful, loving families. If you are considering adoption and wondering ‘Can single people adopt?’, here are some things you need to know!
Single Parent Adoption in Texas
It’s no wonder that many individuals think that adoption is restricted to specific relationship requirements. Years ago, there were regulations on who could adopt. A single person could become a guardian to a child if they were a relative. But in the 1960s, we saw a shift in these requirements. Today, it is legal for a single person to adopt a child in all 50 states.
Keep in mind that each state has its own adoption laws that may differ in specific requirements. The same requirements apply to both married and single-parent adoption in Texas. You must be:
- At least 21-years-old
- Financially stable
- Responsible and mature
- Able to complete an application
- Willing to share your background and lifestyle information
- Provide references
- Provide proof of marriage and/or divorce (if applicable)
- Complete a home study
- Submit to a criminal background and child abuse check, including all adults living in your household
While you can undoubtedly adopt as a single parent, there are some things to keep in mind before making a move toward finalizing your adoption. Let’s discuss.
Single-Parent Adoption Challenges and Considerations
Can I adopt as a single parent? If you are asking yourself this question, there are some other things to consider. Talk with your local adoption center to get advice, support, and other resources for adoptive parents. Here are some things to consider:
Home Study
The home study is a legal requirement for all adoptions. It helps ensure that your home and family are an ideal match for an adoptive child. The home study is a written report that runs from 10–20 pages and provides details about your family and your home environment relevant to a child’s well-being. Every adoption in Texas requires an approved study to adopt.
If you are single, your living habits will be slightly different from that of a married couple. One requirement is that you’ll need to have at least two bedrooms in your home — one for you and one for your adoptive child. Regardless of how your home looks, the home study will check to make sure you can provide a healthy, organized, and safe environment for a child to live in. This is one of the most critical steps in the process.
Lifestyle Changes
Before you start the adoption process, think about the social and financial impact of having a child. In the excitement and hope of adoption, many single parents don’t consider how a child will affect finances and relationships. Take a hard look at your finances to ensure you will remain financially stable when adding the responsibilities of caring for another person.
Talk to your close family and friends about your plans. Your support system will be one of the most extensive resources you have. Having a solid support base will resolve many of your challenges getting adjusted to your new lifestyle. With the love and support of those around you, you’ll be on your way to a beautiful life with your child.
Resources and Support
In addition to your personal support system, take advantage of the resources and services available for adoptive parents. Find a local adoption center to help you through the ups and downs of your journey. Selecting an adoption center that you feel comfortable with will help ease the challenges of adopting as a single parent. Most adoption centers offer the following resources and support:
- Counseling and emotional support
- Financial resources
- Legal resources
- Adoptive parent support groups
- Access to educational and training resources
- Expert advice on all aspects of the adoption process
For more information on the general adoption process, Contact Texas Adoption Center today and join our list of waiting families! You can also reach us by phone or text at (512) 893-7943.
