How Does a Birth Mother Get “Paid” for Adoption?

Many prospective birth mothers choose adoption because they feel they are not ready to raise their baby — and financial circumstances sometimes play a part in that decision. This leads many expectant mothers to ask, “Does putting a baby up for adoption cost money? Do you get paid for putting your baby up for adoption?”

While adoption for compensation is not legal in South Carolina, you may be surprised to learn that there is financial assistance available to you.

As a woman considering adoption, adoption services are always free to you, and you can receive additional financial assistance to cover your living expenses during pregnancy. Read on to learn more about the financial benefits of choosing adoption in South Carolina.

How Can Mothers Receive Payments for Living Expenses in South Carolina?

While prospective birth mothers cannot directly be paid to choose adoption, adoptive families in South Carolina may cover certain pregnancy- and adoption-related costs for an expectant mother. These payments may cover expenses such as housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and more.

In addition, all of your medical and counseling costs, as well as any services you receive from an adoption professional, will be covered for you.

The total amount of financial assistance you may receive during the adoption process may vary depending on a number of factors, including:

• Your living situation: If you are currently living with or receiving financial support from family members, you may need less financial assistance than a single mother who is raising other children in her home.

• Your stage of pregnancy: Women who wait to begin the adoption process may only receive living expenses to cover the remainder of their pregnancy. Alternatively, women who begin the adoption process early in their pregnancy may need financial assistance for several months.

• Changes in your circumstances: Your situation may change during your pregnancy, impacting the amount of living expenses you can receive. For example, if you are unable to work because of your pregnancy, your financial needs may increase.

As an experienced adoption attorney, Rick is familiar with allowable living expenses in South Carolina and can help ensure you are receiving the maximum amount available in your circumstances. In addition, he may be able to refer you to community resources that can provide additional help during and after your pregnancy, such as housing for mothers putting a child up for adoption.

Why Do Mothers Receive Living Expenses When They Choose Adoption?

Pregnancy and adoption are physically and emotionally demanding processes — and you should not have to worry about finances on top of everything else. When you feel overwhelmed by your financial needs, it can be more difficult to focus on what really matters: taking care of yourself, your baby, and the decision you are making.

If you are considering adoption for your baby, you deserve the peace of mind that your financial needs will be met during the adoption process. Contact Rick Corley for more information about financial assistance available to birth mothers in South Carolina. Your call is confidential and does not obligate you to proceed with an adoption plan.