When you’re thinking of adopting, there can be many questions or factors that you don’t know about. Adoption is a big process and should never be considered lightly. You’re going to be responsible for the health and well-being of another person, regardless of their age.
For this reason, doing some prior research can work in your favor and also help you decide whether you want to go through with it or not. The biggest question that most people consider is, “Do you have to be married to adopt.”
Luckily, it is not as big of a prerequisite as you might have assumed. The following are a few reasons why you have to be married to be able to adopt:
1. There are Different Kinds of Adoptions
When people think of adoptions, they usually think of child adoptions from foster homes or orphanages. However, there are also a few more to consider as well:
- Adoption of a Stepchild – This allows you to legally adopt the step-child and become their legal parents.
- Adoption of a Relative – Have a grandchild, niece or nephew who you would like to adopt? Then make use of relative adoption, which allows you to do so legally.
- Adoption of an Adult – If you want to adopt an adult (18+) for inheritance purposes, adult adoption is the route for you.
Knowing the different forms of adoption will allow you to make a better decision.
2. You Don’t Have to Be Married to Adopt
One of the most common questions is the marital status of a person. Most people often ask, “Do you have to be married to adopt?” The answer to that is no. You need to be above 21 years or follow the legal age given in your state. Interested parties can be single parents and adopt kids, relatives or step-children without any issues.
3. You Need to Have Enough for a Comfortable Household
Many people often assume that the question of “Do you have to be married to adopt?” is important because they’re then offering a double income household. While it does work in your benefit, you can adopt when single as long as you are financially sound. You should be making enough to support not only yourself but also the adoptee.
4. You Don’t Have to Buy a Home
Having a home is largely possible with two income households, which is why people think that the answer to “Do you have to be married to adopt?” is yes. On the other hand, adoptions are possible, even if you are renting. The house does have to meet the local standards to make it livable and be free of any substances that could harm you or the other inhabitants.
Once you meet these requirements, you don’t have to worry about being stopped from adoption if you aren’t married. A lot of single people are able to successfully do so without any issues!