Like other states, Iowa requires every prospective adoptive family to complete a “home study” before they can begin the adoption process. Whether you use an agency or a private lawyer, you are legally required to complete a home study before you can adopt. A home study is a necessary step to ensure that the family is prospective family is ready and capable to adopt.
The Iowa adoption home study is completed in just a few easy steps:
- Select a home study provider near you. In Iowa, you might work with Adoption Associates of Iowa.
- Submit fingerprints and obtain your criminal records from any applicable law enforcement agencies. This will all be part of your background check.
- Meet with your home study professional to learn about any additional materials you’ll need for the Iowa adoption home study.
- Prepare everything you’ll need to give to your social worker. Items may include, but are not limited to:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Driver’s licenses
- Proof of insurance
- Green card, if applicable
- Passports if you intent do pursue an international adoption
- Health statements indicating that both your physical and mental health is sufficient to take care of a child
- Background checks and clearances
- Financial documents (i.e. pay stubs, income statements, tax returns)
- Names and contact information for people you would like to use as references
- Autobiographical statements that explain a little about yourselves and why you are interested in adopting
- Receive your social worker into your home for the home inspection and interviews.
- Upon receiving the home study document in the mail, verify with your social worker that all information is correct. If there are any changes, tell the home study professional immediately.