Choose the right adoption path
Write down the child’s age, your relationship to the child, and where your family lives. Confirm the appropriate court and adoption path for your situation.
Understand the adoption process →Experience helping 34,000+ families
A clear plan.
A confident next step.
Your family’s story is unique. Organize the adoption journey around your state, your adoption path and the questions that matter—then move into your paperwork when you’re ready.
Understand your path
Choose your state and adoption type. Keep the right references close.
Prepare with clarity
A practical checklist, a cost planner and worksheets you can print.
Move into your paperwork
Carry your state and adoption type straight into your questionnaire.
Make the next step clear
Your stepparent adoption planning checklist
Use this desk to organize questions and preparation. Your court’s requirements determine what your case needs. Checking an item records your planning progress; it does not submit court documents or complete a legal step.
The adult-adoption age and eligibility rules depend on the state. Your selection helps organize resources; it does not establish eligibility.
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Understand consent and the other parent’s rights
Record what you know about the other parent’s consent and location. Absence alone does not determine whether consent can be dispensed with. A disputed termination or uncertain legal grounds may need local legal advice.
Read about consent and notice →Build a realistic budget
Your SA360 document package starts at $349, plus $99 per additional child or adult. Ask your clerk about filing, service, investigation and records costs. Record those separately; ask about a fee waiver if needed.
Open the cost planner →Gather and review your information
Gather legal names, birth information, addresses and relevant marriage, custody or prior court records. Confirm exactly which documents your court needs. You can save your questionnaire and return to it.
Download the paperwork planner (PDF) →Prepare for filing and the court’s next steps
Review names, dates, signatures and required attachments before filing. Ask the clerk about copies, filing method, service and the next step. If a hearing is scheduled, organize your questions and documents in advance; timing depends on the court and your case.
Download the hearing planner (PDF) →Plan your records after finalization
Once a judge has finalized the adoption, request the copies and certificates you need. Ask the relevant agencies how to update their records. Adoption does not by itself guarantee citizenship, benefits, insurance or a tax credit.
Download the records planner (PDF) →Prepared by the SA360 document-preparation team. Planning guidance updated October 6, 2026. We prepare documents and explain filing steps; the court decides the adoption. This planner does not determine legal eligibility or replace advice on a contested case.