Requirements for Adoptive Parents
Health
A medical history and recent physical examination is required of all applicants, as well as an evaluation based on their physical and emotional abilities to properly care for children. Applicants must also be in good health, have a reasonable life expectancy, and be free from any life threatening or communicable diseases.
Criminal Background Investigation
A criminal background investigation will be conducted for each prospective adoptive parent.
Marital status
If applicants are married, husband and wife must have maintained a residence together for at least two years. Single mothers are considered based on their abilities to meet the needs of available children. The relationship stability between husband and wife is taken into consideration; how the couple views and respects one another, how differences are resolved, and what common goals are share.
Age
While age is not a determining factor, the emotional stability, physical health, and life expectancy of applicants are taken into consideration during the selection process.
Income
Although income status is not the determining factor, applicants are required to show proof of income and assets to ensure that they have sufficient funds to provide financial security and stability for a child, as well as cover costs associated with the adoption.
Housing
The housing and locality of applicants should provide adequate space and a proper living environment to care for an adopted child. Owning a home is not required and strict space requirements are not deterrents for placement, as long as family relationships are deemed satisfactory and the living conditions are safe for the adopted child.
Religion
Religious affiliation is not a prerequisite for adoption.
Parenting Views
Applicants are given an opportunity to discuss their personal parenting philosophies such as discipline, education, expectations, and so forth.
Working Parents
Applicants who work outside the home are not excluded from consideration; they are evaluated based on their ability to provide security and responsible parenting for an adopted child.
Bureau of Criminal Investigation
All Utah applicants must submit photocopies of their driver's license along with a signed Consent and Release of Liability Form and Request for Background Screening form to meet the required Utah BCI clearance. Out-of-state residents must comply with the requirements of their state for a background criminal check.
Child Abuse and Neglect Investigation
The names of all Utah applicants are submitted to the Utah Division of Family Services for a thorough abuse screening. For out-of-state applicants, a child abuse screening should be included in the criminal check that is completed. However, they should check with their home agency to ensure an abuse check is completed.
Health Insurance
A letter from the applicants' health insurance provider regarding the child's policy coverage is required. A copy of the current health insurance card is also welcomed.