Q. What is a home study?

A. It is an objective and narrative report based on supportive documentation, interviews, and background clearances which assesses a family's ability to parent an adopted child.

Q. What is involved in a home study?

A. Home studies require several meetings with a home study provider. At least one visit must take place in your home. You will be interviewed and asked to gather supporting documentation. In addition, 10 hours of online adoption parent education is required.

Q. How much does a home study cost?

A. The cost of a home study can vary from state to state and from agency to agency. Please contact us for an explanation of our fees.

Q. Why do I need a Home Study?

A. A home study is required for all adoptions both domestic and international. If you are seeking to adopt internationally, a home study is required by the State in which you reside, by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and by the country from which you are adopting. If you are seeking to adopt domestically your State of residence requires a home study.

Q. What should I look for in a home study provider?

A. Look for a kind, friendly person who has experience writing home studies. Don't hesitate to ask for their educational background, experience writing home studies, and references. Since there are many requirements to satisfy, it is important that the person you select to complete your home study is familiar with what is required on the state, national and international levels. Additionally, many countries require the home study provider be employed by a licensed adoption agency and do not allow for an independent social to prepare the home study. FHSA can assist you with your home study if you reside in the State of Florida.

Q. What is the home study provider looking for when he/she comes to my home?

A. In general, he/she is assessing your ability to provide a stable, safe and loving environment in which to raise a child. A walk through of your home will be done to make sure that the living environment is safe and has adequate space for the addition of a child. The home study provider is not coming with a white glove, nor will he/she be looking under your beds. You do not need to have the child's room ready, but you should have plans for where the child will sleep and a clear idea how you will child-proof your home. If you have a pool, you must meet the State of Florida regulations for pool safety.

Q. What if I have pets?

A. We like pets and are aware that most people have them. There is no need to hide them.

Q. Do I have to write an autobiography?

A. No, you do not. At Florida Home Studies and Adoption Inc., we believe it is our job to write the information for you. During your interview, the home study provider will take careful notes as you answer questions. (NOTE: If you are using a home study agency other than FHSA, you may be asked to write an autobiography depending on their specific requirements or regulations.)

Q. What kinds of questions will be asked?

A. Questions like the following:

• How are your relationships with your parents and siblings?

• How do you resolve disagreements with your spouse?

• What are your thoughts about discipline?

• What do you believe to be the goal of parenting?

• If this is your first child, what exposure have you had with children?

• What are your childcare plans?

• Are your family and friends supportive of your plan to adopt a child?

Q. What are you looking for when you ask about finances?

A. Your home study provider is simply making sure that the addition of a child will not cause a financial burden on your family. You will be asked about your savings and checking accounts, mortgage or rent payments, bank loans, credit cards, and any other debts you have. You need to show that you are managing your finances in such a way as to be able to meet the needs of your adopted child.

Q. What could cause me to get turned down for a home study?

A. If you have an unstable marriage, a chemical dependency, a history of ongoing major mental illness, or been charged or convicted of a crime against a child or a violent crime, you will probably not be able to adopt a child.

Have a question that is not answered above? Contact us anytime. We are happy to help answer your questions.