Are there financial benefits for the family adopting a child?

In California, there can be financial benefits for the family adopting a child, although this often depends on the type of adoption being considered. For example, those adopting through the public child welfare system, such as foster care, may be eligible for a monthly financial benefit to help cover the cost of care for the adopted child. In addition, some public adoption agencies may provide financial assistance for things like legal fees or medical costs related to the adoption process. Families also may be eligible for state and federal tax credits, including the Adoption Tax Credit, which allows adoptive families to claim a tax credit of up to $13,460 (as of 2019) for qualified adoption expenses. Families adopting a special needs child may also qualify for what is known as a Special Needs Adoption Tax Credit, which is higher than the regular adoption credit. Finally, those adopting a child may be eligible for the Adoption Assistance Program (AAP), which is a federal program that provides reimbursement for qualified adoption-related expenses. There is no income limit and no application fee, although the program is only available to families that adopt through the public child welfare system or licensed private agencies. Overall, families adopting a child in California may be eligible for financial benefits and assistance, although this will depend on the type of adoption involved. It is important for adoptive families to research the types of assistance and credits that may be available for their specific situation.

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