If you are like many couples hoping to adopt, you may be unaware of some of the benefits available to you. For instance, you probably don’t know that there are employer adoption benefits. Not every employer offers these services, but it is a growing trend.  

What Are Employer Adoption Benefits?

Adoption benefits provided through an employer can help alleviate the financial stress associated with adoption. Many companies extend parental leave to families who are adopting.
 
Here are some common types of benefits that employers may offer

Financial Assistance 

Reimbursement for adoption-related expenses could be available through your employer. Agency fees, home studies and travel expenses are just some of the financial support that could be available to you.  The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption 2024 Best Adoption-Friendly Workplace Survey, estimates that employers offer an average of over $16K in financial reimbursement for adoption costs.

Before you move into your adoption journey, double-check your benefits with your employer. If they have adoption benefits, make sure yours are available. Some benefits are reimbursed after you pay for them. Others may not be available until after the adoption is finalized. Stay prepared and on top of your employer benefits to help ease the financial burden.   

Counseling and Support

Adoption is challenging and emotional. Counseling services can greatly help adoptive families through the adoption and after it is finalized. Stress and anxiety are prevalent during the adoption journey and many companies have counseling and other support services available for those who need it. 

Work Arrangements

You may be eligible for reduced work hours, remote employment, or other flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs during this time. This flexibility can help you attend adoption-related appointments, home studies, court appointments and other events that you need to be available for. 

Employer Adoption Benefits – Talking To Your Employer

Speaking to your employer may be necessary early on so that you can prepare for different parts of the adoption process. You will need financial documents from your company as well as information about any potential benefits they offer.

At this time, keep track of your expenses and maintain your financial records. Keep receipts, invoices, and other financial documents that can help you receive reimbursement later. 

If you feel uncomfortable talking about the adoption to your employer, just remember that your HR representative is required to keep the information private and respected. Information can be provided on a need-to-know basis and HR can help you communicate this information to supervisors as needed. 

If your company doesn’t offer adoption benefits, check out these other financial benefits available for adoptive parents.