If you’re considering adopting an adult, there are several things you need to know before getting started. One of the most important things you should be prepared for is the cost of adopting someone over 18.
Can You Adopt Someone That’s Over 18?
You can adopt someone over the age of 18 in most states, including California. Many people choose to adopt an adult to give that person all the legal rights of a biological child. These rights include inheritance, which is the most common reason people choose to adopt adults. In this case, the adoptee may receive property or financial assets from their adopted parent more easily.
The other reason someone may choose to adopt an individual over 18 is to establish a legal parent-child relationship. This kind of relationship gives each individual the legal rights as a guardian or a child.
What is the Maximum Age for Adoption in the U.S.?
There is no maximum age for adoption in 29 states and Washington, D.C. Other states and U.S. territories have varying laws. For example, in Colorado, Rhodie Island, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, you can only adopt an adult if they are over the age of 18 but under the age of 21. California is another state that has its own unique rules regarding the adoption of an adult.
What are the Requirements for Adoption in California?
In California, you can adopt someone over the age of 18 as long as they are not your spouse. You must also be at least ten years older than the individual you want to adopt. That is, a 36-year-old cannot adopt someone who is 28. There may be an exception to this rule if the adopting party is a stepparent, sibling, uncle, aunt, or cousin.
To complete the adoption, all parties involved, including spouses, must sign a petition agreeing to the adoption. Potential parents may also have to submit to a background check.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt Someone Over 18?
Adult adoptions are not as popular as child adoptions, making them much less expensive. Still, the cost to adopt someone over 18 varies significantly and can fall anywhere between $100 and $2,000. The following factors may affect the cost of your adult adoption:
- The state you are adopting in. Every state has different fees associated with adoption.
- Associated legal fees. You’ll most likely need to hire a family law attorney to help you complete the adoption.
- The type of adoption. Stepparent or sibling adoptions are generally less expensive than independent adoptions.
Discuss Your Adoption with Our Team
At the Law Offices of Bloom and Rudibaugh, we have a dedicated team of family law professionals ready to help you with your adult adoption. We are here to support you through the process of adopting someone over 18. Call our Hemet Law Office today at 951-652-1400 or our Murrieta/Temecula office at 951-296-5360 to schedule a consultation with our family law lawyers and discuss your adoption today.
