GayAdoptionbanToday is a great day because we see on the front cover of People magazine we see a true American Idol holding a baby. This baby will be raised by Clay Aiken who just happened to come out of the closet with this issue of People. This not only looks good for gays who are struggling to raise children on their own but for those hoping to adopt. It sets a wonderful example and we are very proud of Clay Aiken.

I thought this would be a great time to talk about Gay Adoption.

So you’re a grownup now, and mom’s nagging for a grandchild? Perhaps that biological clock is getting louder and louder or you and your partner have simply decided it’s time to bring a child into your family. Without the convenience of compatible biology, adoption is the option chosen by many gay and some lesbian couples. What are the legalities of adoption in your state? What should you know about the adoption process?

The challenges of adopting as a gay couple vary depending upon the state in which you live. In some, you may find that the adoption process, even through the state, is relatively easy. Do keep in mind that in some states, single gay parents can adopt, but the couple cannot adopt. Second parent adoption may be allowed or not. These issues all pose significant challenges to gay individuals. Gaylife.about.com provides a state by state breakdown of adoption laws. Keep in mind that laws do change frequently, and a knowledgeable and friendly social worker can be your best aid in this process.

Adopting through the state foster care system is a popular choice in states that allow this option. This is the most affordable form of adoption, and the child you are adopting often is truly in need of a loving family. You do need to consider your own willingness to adopt an older child, one with special needs, or one of a different race if choosing to adopt through the state.

If you are aiming for a private adoption, you, like any adoptive parents, will need to consider your comfort level with birth parents, and register with an agency in the hopes that a birth mother will choose you as a family for the child she is carrying. Obviously, you should be certain to seek out an agency that welcomes gay adoptive parents.

Today, many heterosexual couples choose international adoption. Unfortunately, this option is only available to gay families if they are willing to be closeted, and adopt from a country that allows for single parent adoptions. If their state then allows it, the second parent may adopt via second parent adoption laws once the international adoption is complete.

As a single parent, a gay individual may use tax credits and deductions afforded by the state and federal governments for adoption; however, as with all things, without the benefit of a marriage license the overall costs for adoption for a gay couple may be higher than they would if for a heterosexual one.