Frequently Asked Questions

What qualities do agencies look for in an adoptive home?

Agencies look for families who can best meet the needs of children currently in waiting. Agencies typically have a lot of families who are already licensed and looking for small children and are in need of families that are open to children who are 8 years old or older, who are willing to take sibling strips and/or children who have a variety of special needs. Many agencies accept people of all races, genders, ages, and parenting experience. Contact your local agency to find out more about your service area’s needs.

Can I choose the type of child I want to adopt?

Yes! During the home study process, your worker will review what child characteristics your family is open to. This includes a child’s age, gender, behavioral, physical, developmental, learning and emotional needs.

How old do I have to be to adopt?

In Nebraska, the age of adulthood is 19 and therefore you must be at least 19 years of age to adopt.  However,  most agencies will only allow adults who are 21 years or older to become a licensed foster parent.Our state currently does not have an upper age limit to adopt in this program.

Do I have to be married?

No, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services does not require that a child be placed in a married couple’s home. Agencies license parents that are single, widowed, divorced and married. If you are living with a person in your home that you are not related to, you cannot adopt without written consent from the division Director of Children and Family Services for the State of Nebraska.

Can biological parents regain their custodial rights?

Once a parent has relinquished or their rights have been terminated, it cannot be reversed.

How do I adopt a child who is currently placed in my home?

First contact your CFSS to determine if the child is available for adoption. If the child is not, you can express to them, that should the child become legally free for adoption you would be open to becoming an adoptive parent for the child. If the child is free for adoption, the CFSS will determine if you are a good match for the child. If your family is a match, they will make a referral to have an adoptive home study completed and start the process for adoption.

How do I adopt a relative who is currently in the foster system?

You will need to contact the case manager of your family member and let them know that you are interested in adopting that child. The case manager will be able to answer any questions you may have and explain the process to you.

Can I meet the child before they are placed in my home?

Absolutely! The case manager will arrange meetings with prospective home and the child to help with the transition of a child into a prospective adoptive home.

Is there financial assistance for an adopted child?

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has a set of predetermined qualities that will determine if a child will receive a subsidy or not. Each child is different, but typically children with special needs, in a sibling group and/or over a certain age will have a subsidy to assist them with their special needs. All children are eligible for Medicaid; most will be able to keep it until they are 19 years of age.

How much does foster adoption cost?

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services will cover the cost of training, the home study, and all legal fees for adoption. A family typically is responsible for all other post-adoption needs with the option of receiving Medicaid free for the child until the child reaches the age of 19. A child may also receive a subsidy from the State to help the family care for the child’s specific needs.

How long does the licensing /adoption approval take?

The entire process can take anywhere from six months to a year. Each family will have to contact their service area’s lead agency to find when their foster parenting/foster-adoption training occurs. Once the training is completed, the home will have an adoptive home study completed and this information will be sent to NDHHS for licensing.