Are you considering adopting a child? Have you started the adoption process and want to know if the military will provide financial assistance for adoption-related expenses? The Military Adoption Reimbursement Program can help you take care of the cost of adoption. If you’re a Texas resident and an active-duty member of the military who wants to adopt, here are some important things to know.
Will the military reimburse for adoption?
The military will reimburse you for some adoption costs. If you’re a member of the military and you adopt a child who is younger than 18, you can claim up to $2,000 per child, up to a total of $5,000, for expenses related to the adoption.
If both you and your spouse are in the military, only one spouse will be reimbursed. Dual-military families who adopt children cannot receive over $5,000 per calendar year under the Military Adoption Reimbursement Program.
Which expenses qualify for reimbursement?
If you’re preparing to adopt a child or have started the process, you may be wondering which expenses are covered under the military’s reimbursement program. National and international agency fees are covered as well as placement fees and court costs.
You’ll also be reimbursed if you provide temporary foster care. Medical care for the birth mother and newborn may be covered as well.
It is important to keep in mind that the reimbursement program does not cover all adoption costs. Military families should budget wisely as they prepare to welcome a new member into their family.
If you and your family want to move forward with the adoption process, speak with an experienced family law attorney. A legal professional may be able to answer any questions you have about adopting a child when you’re a member of the Armed Forces.