affording your adoption

Adoption fees are based on a family's income and vary with the type of adoption you are considering. For children with special needs, adoption subsidies are available to assist with adoption fees, medical and therapy services and special education needs. Currently, a federal tax credit of up to $12,150 is available after your adoption is finalized. For more information, go to www.irs.gov/taxtopics and http://www.irs.gov/formspubs.

The following are other avenues to explore:

	Abba Fund - www.abbafund.org(NC families only)
	Gift of Adoption Fund - www.giftofadoption.org
	National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) - http://nefe.org/adoption
	A Child Waits Foundation - www.achildwaits.org
	Shaohannah's Hope - www.shaohannahshope.org
	www.adoptivefamilies.com/adoption-cost.php
	www.affordingadoption.com

Employee Benefit Programs
Many private and governmental employers offer adoption assistance and benefits. These might include financial reimbursement, paid and unpaid leave and resource and referral services. Please inquire with your Human Resources or benefits department.

Family Medical Leave Act
After you adopt, what about job security while staying home with your new child? The Family Medical Leave Act may provide the benefits you need. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993 is a federal law that requires employers of more than 50 workers to give full-time employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for the birth or adoption of a child. Your employer may have more generous benefits, but this offers minimum protection.