Your adoption journey begins by meeting specific requirements in Wisconsin. These criteria are in place to ensure that you’re fully prepared to provide a loving, stable home for a child.
At Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc., we’re here to guide you through the adoption and home study requirements. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and help you fulfill your dream of becoming a parent.
In this article, we’ll discuss the adoption requirements in Wisconsin, explain what the home study entails and highlight why it’s an important part of the adoption process. Do you want to get started? Give us a call at 608-821-8220 or email us at aowinfo@adoptionsofwisconsin.com today.
What Are the Requirements to Adopt in Wisconsin?
In order to adopt, there are some basic requirements you need to meet. Fulfilling these criteria is one of the first steps to starting your adoption journey.
In Wisconsin, you’ll need to meet the following qualifications:
You must be at least 21 years old.
You can adopt if you are single or as a married couple
You’ll need to complete 25 hours of preadoption preparation, including six hours of in-person or live training
Your home must have enough space for the child.
Your income should be sufficient to meet your household’s financial needs.
You cannot have convictions for violent crimes or offenses involving children.
You must complete a home study conducted by a licensed professional.
What Are the Requirements of a Home Study in Wisconsin?
If you meet the basic adoption requirements, you can move forward with the home study process. The home study is a detailed evaluation conducted by a licensed professional to ensure that you are ready to raise an adopted child. It’s an essential part of the adoption process, and it typically includes three main components: documentation, a home inspection and several interviews.
1. The Required Documentation
The first phase of the home study involves gathering and submitting important paperwork. You’ll need to provide information about yourself, your family, finances and health. You’ll also need to undergo a background check to ensure there are no criminal convictions that could affect your ability to adopt.
Some documents you may have on hand, while others may take some time to collect. Preparing ahead of time will help streamline the process and ensure you’re ready whenever your social worker asks for something.
2. The Home Inspection
After reviewing all the documentation, your social worker will schedule your home visits. This isn’t a white glove test — they aren’t looking for a picture-perfect living space. Rather, they want to see your neighborhood, learn about your community and ensure your house is safe, stable and suitable for raising a child.
To prepare for this adoption home study requirement, you can work on baby-proofing your home.
3. The Home Study Interview
Your social worker will sit down with you and any other members of your household to determine whether you’re ready to adopt. In Wisconsin, a SAFE (Structured Analysis Family Evaluation) home study assessment is required and consists of a thorough and uniform evaluation of your family. The SAFE home study will identify and address both strengths and areas of concern. Your social worker will also ask you questions about your personality, hobbies, relationships, job, finances, parenting style and reasons for adopting.
It’s important to remember that there are no “right” answers. Just be open and honest about who you are and your vision for the future. If you’re nervous, you can run through some example questions ahead of time so you feel more confident for the official interview.
Are Home Studies Required for Private Adoptions?
Yes, home studies are required for most types of adoption in Wisconsin, including private domestic adoptions, international adoptions and foster care adoptions. The home study plays a key role in ensuring that you can provide a safe and loving home for the child you wish to adopt.
In the case of private adoptions, completing the home study gives expectant parents peace of mind. They know that their child will be placed with a supportive family who’s emotionally and financially ready to care for a child.
Why Should You Work With a Licensed Professional?
Since adoption and home study requirements can vary by state, it’s crucial to work with a licensed professional who understands Wisconsin’s specific requirements. Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. is licensed to perform home studies, and our team is committed to making sure that your adoption process goes smoothly.
We’re here to support you throughout your journey to parenthood. You can give us a call at 608-821-8220 or email us at aowinfo@adoptionsofwisconsin.com to start the adoption or home study process.
