Idaho's Department of Health and Welfare tracks facts, figures, and statistics on Adoption in Idaho. You can review current Idaho adoption information directly from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Website.
Who can become an adoptive parent?
Adoptive parents can be individuals and/or families. You may qualify if you:
- Are 25 years of age or older
- Have a stable source of income suitable to support the family
- Have adequate space in your house or apartment to provide a safe environment for the child
- Pass a physical examination (you don’t have to be in perfect physical condition to qualify – blindness, deafness, or other physical disabilities will not disqualify you as a prospective adoptive parent).
Can I adopt a child if I already have a child or children?
Yes. In fact, many parents choose to adopt a child or children while their biological children are still at home. Adoption also has become very popular among "empty nesters" who take in older children or sibling groups once their biological children leave home.
Is there financial assistance available for adoptive families?
To be eligible for adoption assistance benefits, children must meet Idaho's definition of a "child with special needs." Most children placed through Health and Welfare meet this definition and are eligible for either federal or state adoption assistance benefits.
Eligibility for adoption assistance is determined for each child. These benefits can include up to $2,000 for one-time expenses necessary to finalize adoption, Medicaid benefits to help meet medical needs, and a monthly cash payment. These benefits are negotiated with the adoptive family, based on the family's circumstances and the child's needs. Adoption assistance benefits terminate on the child's 18th birthday.
The federal government offers adoptive families a tax credit. Currently the credit is $11,390.00 (per child). This credit may be used after the adoption is finalized as credit toward the family's federal taxes.
What is the Wednesday’s Child program?
Wednesday’s Child is a private, nationwide program that seeks to find adoptive families for children in state custody. In Idaho, the Wednesday's Child program maintains a website that provides information about children awaiting adoption. Click here for the Idaho Wednesday's Child Website.
