A. Download our application and other forms from our website. Simply mail in your application with the appropriate fees.  We will then contact you to set up your first home study appointment and/or to start the adoption paperwork.

Q. What is a home study?

A. It is an objective and narrative report based on supportive documentation, interviews, and background clearances which assesses a family's ability to parent an adopted child.

Q. What is involved in a home study?

A. Home studies require several meetings with a home study provider. At least one visit must take place inside your home. You will be interviewed and asked to gather supporting documentation. 

Q. How much does a home study cost?

A. The cost of a home study can vary from state to state and from agency to agency. For specific information about FHSA home study costs, please contact us by e-mail or call us at (941) 342-8189.

Q. Why do I need a Home Study?

A. If you are seeking to adopt internationally, a home study is required by the State in which you reside, by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the country from which you are adopting. If you are adopting domestically in the State of Florida, part of the process requires that the adopting family submit a favorable home study.

Q. What should I look for in a home study provider?

A. Look for a kind, friendly person who has experience writing home studies. Don't hesitate to ask for their educational background, experience writing home studies, and references. Experience can make a huge difference whether or not a country or United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will accept your home study. Additionally, many countries require the home study provider be employed by a licensed adoption agency and not an independent social worker.  FHSA can assist you with your home study if you reside in the State of Florida. If you reside outside of Florida, check here for a listing of home study agencies.

Q. What are the steps for United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)?

1. File form I-600A with documentation (copies of Birth and Marriage certificates) and fees.
2. Get fingerprinted at your local United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office.
3. Upon receipt of a favorable home study, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will issue form I-171H.

Q. What paperwork will I need to file with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)?

A. You will need to file form I-600A. This is an application for advanced processing of orphan petition. Call the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) customer service department at 1-800-375-5283 to have the form mailed directly to you, download the form with instructions from the FHSA site, or download it from the USCIS website. Mail your completed I-600A to your local United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office.

Q. Does my home study need to be completed before I file with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)?

A. Some CIS offices allow you to send in your I600A form prior to completing your home study.  You will need to check with your home study provider.

Q. What if I'm not sure how to fill out the form?

A. The on line forms available from FHSA are already partially filled out and come with detailed instructions. However, if you still have questions or need help, your home study provider will be more than happy to help you!

Q. What is the home study provider looking for when she comes to my home?

A. In general, she is making sure you have room for a baby or a child in your home. She is not coming with a white glove, nor will she be looking under your beds. You do not need to have the baby's room ready, but you should have plans for where the baby will sleep and a clear idea how you will baby-proof your home. If you have a pool, you must meet the State of Florida regulations for pool safety. Guns must be kept locked in a safe, with the ammunition stored and locked separately.

Q. What if I have pets?

A. We like pets and are aware that most people have them. There is no need to hide them.

Q. Do I have to write an autobiography?

A. No, you do not. At Florida Home Studies and Adoption Inc., we believe it is our job to write the information for you. During your interview, the home study provider will take careful notes as you answer questions. (NOTE: If you are using a home study agency other than FHSA, you may be asked to write an autobiography depending on their specific requirements or regulations.)

Q. What kinds of questions will be asked?

A. Questions like the following:

• Did you enjoy school as you were growing up?
• What activities were you involved in?
• How are your relationships with your parents and siblings?
• How do you resolve disagreements with your spouse?
• In what ways do you discipline your child?
• What do you view as your parenting style?
• If this is your first child, what exposure have you had with children?
• What are your childcare plans?
• What are your hobbies and interests?

Q. What are you looking for when you ask about finances?

A. Your home study provider is simply making sure a baby will not cause a financial burden. You will be asked about your savings and checking accounts, mortgage or rent payments, bank loans, credit cards, and any other debts you have. You need to show that you are managing your finances in such a way as to be able to meet the needs of your adopted child.

Q. What could cause me to get turned down for a home study?

A. If you have an unstable marriage, a chemical dependency, a history of mental illness, or been charged or convicted of a crime against a child or a violent crime, you will probably not be able to adopt a child.

Have a question that is not answered above? Call or e-mail us anytime. We are happy to help answer your questions about adopting.