Guide to Adoption Grants in Oregon and Washington in 2026

A Guide for Hopeful Adoptive Families

Adoption is an exciting step toward building your family. It is also a financial commitment. Many families are surprised to learn that there are grants, state programs, and tax benefits available to help with adoption expenses.

If you are planning to adopt in 2026 and live in Oregon or Washington, this guide outlines Guide to Adoption Grants in Oregon and Washington in 2026some of the financial resources that may be available to you.

At Choice Adoptions, we believe that finances should not stand in the way of a loving and prepared family.

Understanding Adoption Costs

Adoption costs vary depending on the type of adoption. Private domestic adoption, foster care adoption, and international adoption each have different fee structures. While some adoptions through foster care may have little to no agency cost, private adoption often includes agency fees, legal fees, and other related expenses.

The good news is that grants and assistance programs can help reduce these costs.

Adoption Grants in Oregon

Gift of Adoption Fund – Oregon Chapter

The Gift of Adoption Fund provides grants to families who need financial assistance to complete their adoptions. The Oregon chapter serves families throughout the state.

Grant amounts typically range from a few thousand dollars up to $15,000, depending on need and available funding. These grants are meant to help families complete an adoption that might otherwise be financially out of reach.

To apply, families must:

• Have an approved home study

• Be working with a licensed adoption professional

• Provide financial documentation

• Pay a one-time application fee

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Grants are awarded before finalization and are not reimbursements for completed adoptions.

You can learn more or apply directly through the Gift of Adoption website.

Oregon Adoption Assistance Program

Families adopting children from foster care may qualify for support through the Oregon Department of Human ServicesAdoption Assistance Program.

This program is designed for children who meet the state’s definition of special needs.

Support may include:

• Reimbursement for certain nonrecurring adoption expenses such as legal fees

• Monthly financial assistance based on the child’s needs

• Medical coverage

An adoption assistance agreement must be in place before finalization. Your caseworker can help you determine eligibility.

Adoption Grants in Washington

Gift of Adoption Fund – Washington Chapter

The Gift of Adoption Fund also has a Washington chapter that provides grants to families across the state.

The eligibility requirements are similar to those in Oregon. Families must have a completed home study and demonstrate financial need. Grants are awarded to assist with the final costs of adoption.

Funding depends on donations and availability, so it is helpful to apply as early as possible once you are eligible.

Washington Adoption Support Program

Families adopting from foster care in Washington may qualify for assistance through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families Adoption Support Program.

Support may include:

• Reimbursement of up to $1,500 for nonrecurring adoption expenses

• Monthly maintenance payments based on the child’s needs

• Medicaid coverage

• Counseling and post adoption support services

Like Oregon, eligibility is determined before finalization, and an agreement must be signed in advance.

Federal Adoption Tax Credit

In addition to state programs and private grants, families may qualify for the federal Adoption Tax Credit. This credit allows adoptive parents to claim certain qualified adoption expenses on their federal taxes.

The maximum amount can change from year to year, so it is important to review current IRS guidelines or speak with a tax professional when planning your adoption budget.

Planning Ahead

If you are just beginning your adoption journey, it is never too early to start planning financially. Many families combine personal savings, grants, employer benefits, and tax credits to make adoption possible.

At Choice Adoptions, we walk alongside families through every step of the process. If you have questions about grants, state assistance, or creating an adoption budget, we are here to help.

You can learn more about our services at www.choiceadoptions.org or contact our team to schedule a consultation.

Additional Resources

For more information on adoption and financial planning, explore these pages on our website:

• Affording Adoption – Learn about grants, loans, and other ways to make adoption more affordable.

• Home Study Services – Information on completing your home study, required for many grants.

• Our Adoption Process – Adoption options and learn more about working with Choice Adoptions.

• Contact Our Team – Schedule a consultation or ask questions about your adoption journey.