Agency Adoption vs. Private Adoption

Which path is right for your family?

If you’re considering adoption, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to work with an adoption agency or pursue private (independent) adoption. Both routes can lead to a successful adoption, but the process, cost, and level of involvement are different.

Let’s walk through the pros and cons of each to help you decide what’s best for your journey.

What Is Agency Adoption?

An adoption agency is a licensed organization that facilitates the entire adoption process. They typically:

• Coordinate home studies

• Match adoptive parents with expectant moms

• Offer counseling and support services

• Handle legal documentation and placement
  
  

✅ Pros:

• Support is often built in throughout the process

• Agencies may have established systems for connecting with expectant birth mothers

• Many handle the legal complexities for you
  
  

❌ Cons:

• Higher costs: Often $30,000–$60,000+

• Less control over your outreach and timeline, and you're held to their rules and policies throughout your journey

• Some hopeful parents feel less directly involved in the process
  
  

Note that if you are interested in an international adoption, an adoption agency is required.

What Is Private (Independent) Adoption?

In a private adoption, you work with an adoption attorney, complete your home study outside of an agency, and connect with expectant parents on your own—often through word-of-mouth, social media, or parent profile sites. 

This route allows you to be more hands-on in the matching process while still ensuring everything is legal and ethical through your attorney.

✅ Pros:

• Lower cost: Usually $10,000–$25,000 (depending on services needed)

• More involvement in your story and timeline

• You choose how and where to share your adoption journey
  
  

❌ Cons:

• You’ll need to coordinate more pieces yourself (like outreach and education) — but this can be fun!

• Requires consistency and hard work

• Fewer built-in emotional support services
  
  

So… Which One Is Right for You?

There’s no one “right” path to adoption. It depends on your budget, comfort level, and how hands-on you want to be.

If you want more structure and support, an agency might be a great fit.
If you’re looking for flexibility, involvement, and a more affordable route, private adoption could be exactly what you’re looking for.