Adoption is one of the fastest ways to add children to a family. Some people adopt their siblings or grandchildren due to family emergencies. Stepparents may adopt the children of their new spouses. There are also many adoptions that involve unrelated individuals adopting infants through private placement or older children after providing them with a foster home.
Many potentially qualified adoptive parents assume that they are not in a position to open their homes to a child in need of stability and love. Myths and urban legends about Georgia’s adoption requirements can deter people from even discussing adoption as an option for their families.
For example, many people have heard the claim that only homeowners can adopt. Some people claim that stepparent and familial adoptions do not require homeownership, but foster placement and private adoptions do require homeownership.
Is it true that only those who own their own homes can adopt unrelated children in Georgia?
The state cares about stability, not homeownership
There are many requirements imposed by state statutes on those aspiring to adopt. Both individuals and married couples can theoretically adopt. They must show that they are healthy enough to meet a child’s needs. They also need to show that they can offer stability.
Generally, that process entails proving overall financial solvency, meaning that the parents have enough income to meet their own needs and the basic expenses associated with raising a child. They also need to have stable housing.
A rental home can provide stable housing. So long as the home is in good condition and there are adequate amenities for the child, such as a bed and ideally a room of their own, the state is unlikely to negatively judge an adoptive parent because they rent.
While a home study that involves an in-person assessment of the space is necessary and the state may conduct a financial review as well, homeowners do not necessarily receive preferential consideration during the adoption process. Many financially-stable and loving families rent. Leasing or renting a home should not deter people from pursuing an adoption.
Reviewing family circumstances, including houses, with a family law attorney can help adults better evaluate their likelihood of successfully adopting. With appropriate guidance, many families can open their homes, including rented homes, to children in need.