What services does LDS Family Services provide for single expectant parents?

LDS Family Services provides the following services for single expectant parents:

• Free professional counseling to all single expectant parents who are referred by their bishops. LDS Family Services provides these services regardless of the single expectant parents' decision to place the child for adoption, raise the child as a single parent, or marry.

What services does LDS Family Services provide for prospective adoptive couples?

LDS Family Services offers free consultation for prospective adoptive couples about adoption issues. Prospective adoptive couples will have the option to publish a free profile on Adoption.com/LDS if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Should prospective adoptive couples identify the community resource they wish to use before being selected by a single expectant parent planning to place their child for adoption?

While it is not a requirement, it is generally recommended that prospective adoptive couples decide which community resource they would like to use. If prospective adoptive couples would like assistance in identifying resources, LDS Family Services can consult with couples about local resources.

Will prospective adoptive couples living outside of the United States have access to the same services as couples living within the United States?

Generally speaking, no. LDS Family Services may be able to provide limited consultation to prospective adoptive couples depending on where they live. Contact your local ecclesiastical leader for information.

Does LDS Family Services provide adoption services?

LDS Family Services provides adoption related services, such as:

• Free professional counseling for single expectant parents referred by their Bishop.
• Free consultation for LDS hopeful adoptive couples referred by their Bishop.
• Consultation for LDS Church leaders.

• LDS Family Services provides free, professional counseling to all single expectant parents who are referred by their bishops.
• LDS Family Services will often refer those considering adoption for their child and who are looking for an LDS prospective adoptive couple to Adoption.com/LDS.

• LDS Family Services provides free adoption consultation to prospective adoptive couples referred by their Bishop.

How do couples get started using the Adoption.com/LDS site?

Couples should go directly to Adoption.com/profiles to apply.

When should couples retain an adoption professional?

Couples should consult with an adoption agency, licensed adoption provider or experienced adoption attorney as early as possible in the adoption process. An adoption agency, licensed adoption provider or experienced adoption attorney will help couples understand the different ways they can adopt and will help them understand the adoption laws of their state. They will also answer adoption questions, and help minimize a couple’s risk in connection with the adoption.

How should couples select an adoption agency, licensed adoption provider or experienced adoption attorney?

It is important to have an adoption agency, licensed adoption provider or experienced adoption attorney that is knowledgeable in the type of adoption you are pursuing. We recommend that you visit American Academy of Adoption Attorneys for tips in selecting an adoption attorney.

What are the eligibility requirements for publishing on Adoption.com/LDS?

Bishop's recommendation, live in the United States of America, temple recommends, and temple marriage.

How will Adoption.com determine if couples meet LDS Family Services eligibility requirements?

With the couple's permission, Adoption.com will contact LDS Family Services headquarters office in Salt Lake City, who will contact their bishop to determine their eligibility. LDS Family Services headquarters office in Salt Lake City, will then notify Adoption.com of the couple's eligibility through an automated process.