Things People Get Wrong About Birth Fathers Missouri

5 Things People Get Wrong About Birth Fathers in Missouri

June 12, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

5 Things People Get Wrong About Birth Fathers in Missouri

By Lindsay Parkoo

Birth fathers have a pretty bad reputation in the world of adoption. In the media, birth fathers are depicted with many negative stereotypes. This creates negative expectations for how a birth father deals with adoption. They are seen as unimportant, absent, or unsupportive. While that can be the case for some, birth fathers are so much more than that. They can provide so much for the birth mother during the adoption. So, let’s break down some common misconceptions about birth fathers and let you know the truth.

But first, if you’re looking to place your baby for adoption, look for Adoption Choices of Missouri. With Adoption Choices of Missouri, you’ll work with adoption counselors who’ll provide support for you as a birth father. We make sure you understand the adoption process as well as what the types of adoption for you are. You can rest assured that you’ll be well informed in every decision that needs to be made.

5 Misconceptions about Birth Fathers

Birth Fathers Don’t Want to be Involved in Missouri Adoption

Every birth father has the choice to be involved in the adoption process. In some cases, unfortunately, they choose not to be. That shouldn’t have an impact on the birth fathers that do make an effort to be involved. They get to decide with the birth mother on their adoption choices. If they opt for open adoption, the birth father has the option to be involved with the child. Adoption in Missouri allows you to have a relationship with your child after placement if all parties agree.

Birth Fathers aren’t Involved with the Birth Mother in Missouri Adoption

Many believe that once the baby has been placed, the birth mother and father are done with each other. That isn’t always the case, but that decision is up to the birth parents. Many couples may choose adoption and still become parents later. Birth fathers learn to understand that a birth mother’s needs must come before theirs at times. Sometimes going through the adoption process together can lead to a better understanding with their partner too.

Birth Fathers are Unsupportive in Missouri Adoption

When a birth mother is pregnant and considering adoption, there’s a lot for her to think and worry about. She is, after all, making a brave and big decision for her and her child. She likely needs more support now than at any other time in her life. Being the birth father means that your job is to support her needs during and after the process. Whilst there are birth fathers who aren’t supportive during adoption, that doesn’t make up the whole. There are birth fathers who also feel that they’re not ready to be a parent.

Birth Fathers aren’t Important in Missouri Adoption

This is very false. While the birth mother does take priority, the birth father is often there as her support. If the birth mother isn’t comfortable, there can be complications during her labor. It’s the birth father’s job to make sure she is being cared for. It’s a very important job to undertake. They should be included in all major steps, from making an adoption plan to choosing the adoptive family. That way, the birth mother doesn’t feel overwhelmed.

Birth Fathers Don’t Need Counseling During Adoption in Missouri Adoption

Our society often doesn’t let men talk about their feelings or get counseling. However, adoption can be an emotional process for both parents. It’s not easy if you feel like you’re giving a child up for adoption. Birth fathers might feel like their feelings and experiences aren’t worth dealing with. They might also feel judged by others if they seek out counseling. Adoption in Missouri allows both birth mother and birth father to get the emotional support they need during adoption.

Be a Part of the Missouri Adoption Process as a Birth Father

Birth fathers don’t always live up to the negative reputation the media puts on them. There are birth fathers that support the choice of adoption. They need emotional support and want to be involved with the child. We mustn’t leave them behind. There are resources and steps so that the birth parents collaborate during the process.

Adoption Choices of Missouri can give you those resources. We take you step by step from birth to placement. Adoption Choices of Missouri even has a home study checklist for when they research and review prospective families. There’s a plethora of things your adoption agency teaches you, such as positive adoption language. So, you don’t have to search for how to give a baby up for adoption and feel miserable for it. Contact us early in your partner’s unplanned pregnancy and start your journey.

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Birth Father FAQ With Adoption Agency in Missouri

June 5, 2023 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Birth Father FAQ With Adoption Agency in Missouri

By Janae Pabon

When discussing how adoption in Missouri works, you mostly hear talk about the birth mother. The birth mother works with the adoption counselor to create the adoption plan; she chooses the adoptive family, etc. You may be wondering, what role does the birth father play in all this? Do adoption agencies near me require the birth father to be involved in a Missouri adoption?

If you’re nervous about involving the birth father in the adoption process, these are all important questions to ask. Adoption Choices of Missouri wants to make sure you understand the birth father’s role in the adoption process.

Birth Father Frequently Asked Questions

To help answer the questions you may have about the birth father’s involvement in the adoption process, we have created a list of frequently asked questions.

Does the birth father have to be part of my adoption plan?

If the birth father is your husband, he does have the right to be part of the adoption plan. The process may be a little more complicated if the birth father is your husband and you do not want him to be involved. You may be wondering how to give a baby up for adoption without the birth father. Know that the adoption can happen without him if he doesn’t fight for custody. Also, if the birth father is unknown or he denies paternity, the process can continue without him.

What happens if the birth father is unknown?

Adoption Choices of Missouri can try to locate the birth father and let him know his rights if you want him to be involved. If we cannot find him, the adoption will continue as planned. An unknown birth father will not stop the adoption process from proceeding.

What if the birth father doesn’t want the adoption to proceed?

The baby’s birth father may not understand the benefits of adoption and may not agree with you that it is the right choice. If this is the case, he can fight for complete custody in court. However, if he cannot prove that he can support a child on his own, the adoption can continue without him. To better understand the benefits of adoption, he can get an adoption counselor or reach out to us at Adoption Choices of Missouri for more information about adoption.

What if the birth father approves but just doesn’t want to be involved in the adoption?

If the birth father does not fight the adoption but doesn’t want to be involved at all, the adoption can proceed. He can choose to sign away his parental rights, and then the birth mother can place the baby for adoption without intervention.

Will the birth father be required to support the baby after the adoption?

After both birth parents sign away custody, neither you, the birth mother, nor the birth father will be required to pay the child’s support. The adoptive family will now be responsible for the expenses of the child.

How can the birth father help with the adoption itself?

If you have a healthy relationship with the birth father and decide that you would like him to be involved, this can be of great benefit to you. As the expectant mother, you do not have to make decisions about the adoption alone. The birth father can work with you to create the adoption plan, which outlines everything about this adoption. He can help you assess your adoption options and decide whether you want a closed, semi-open, or open adoption. The birth father can also help you search through all possible adoptive families who have completed the home study checklist. You do not have to choose the perfect adoptive family for your baby alone!

How can the birth father support the birth mother through the process?

The birth father may want to help you through the adoption process but simply not know how. Emotional support is extremely important during this difficult process. The birth father is the father of your child and, therefore, can partially understand how you feel. He can be there for you while you go through the inevitable rollercoaster of emotions. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers counseling services to you, and he can even attend these with you for extra support.

Can the birth father have a relationship with the child after the adoption?

If the birth father is involved in the adoption planning, and you both pursue an open adoption, then the birth father can see the baby. The birth father can either visit your child with you during scheduled meetings, or you can go separately. Of course, the adoptive family’s wishes must also be considered when it comes to visits. You can discuss what they are comfortable with and figure out what will fulfill both your wishes and the adoptive family’s.

Can the birth father be included in the birth of your baby?

The birth plan exists for you. Whatever you put it in is there to guarantee that your needs for the birth are met. Our adoption counselors and the birth father can help you make some decisions regarding the birth plan, but ultimately it is up to you. If you would like the birth father to be present at the birth, and he agrees, then he can be there to support you.

Are there resources for the birth father?

The adoption process can be emotionally taxing for the birth father, too. He may need extra support, and Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to offer him that. He can attend a support group where he can talk to other birth fathers who understand the emotions that come with adoption. Adoption Choices of Missouri can help birth fathers get connected with these support groups. An adoption counselor can also help figure out what other resources are available for birth fathers.

We Can Help You With Your Missouri Adoption

Birth fathers matter when it comes to adoption. They have certain rights and can be an extremely beneficial part of helping your adoption process. However, Adoption Choices of Missouri wants you to know that no matter your relationship with the birth father, you can still place your baby for adoption.

If you are thinking of giving your child up for adoption but don’t know where to start, you can contact us at Adoption Choices of Missouri. We are here to help you no matter where you are in the adoption process.

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2022 Adoption Tax Credit

October 21, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

2022 Adoption Tax Credit

The 2022 tax filing season is upon us! The Internal Revenue Service recommends taxpayers take time to determine if they are eligible for important tax credits. Many of our adoptive families will be applying for the Adoption Tax Credit. With that in mind, we have compiled some basic information about the 2022 adoption tax credit.

Adoption Tax Credit 101 – for 2022 adoptions (claimed in early 2023)

If you have done any research into adoption financing, you’ve probably heard about the Federal Adoption Tax Credit. But what exactly is this credit, and how does it work?

The Federal Adoption Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit that helps families offset the costs of qualifying adoption expenses. Families who paid qualifying adoption expenses in 2022, and owe taxes, may be eligible to benefit from this credit. For adoptions finalized in 2022, there is a federal adoption tax credit of up to $14,890 per child. The 2022 adoption tax credit is NOT refundable, which means taxpayers can only use the credit if they have federal income tax liability.

Parents who are adopting from the U.S. and claiming qualified adoption expenses can claim the credit the year of finalization or the year after they spent the funds. Parents who adopt a child with special needs and are not basing their request on expenses should claim the credit the year of finalization. Parents who adopt internationally cannot claim the credit until the year of finalization.

The credit applies one time for each adopted child and should be claimed when taxpayers file taxes for 2022.

To be eligible for the credit, parents must:

Have adopted a child other than a stepchild — A child must be either under 18 or be physically or mentally unable to take care of him or herself.
Be within the income limits — Income affects how much of the credit parents can claim. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of $223,410, and it’s completely phased out at $263,410 or more.

According to the IRS, “qualified adoption expenses” can include items like:

Reasonable and necessary adoption fees
Court costs and attorney fees
Traveling expenses related to adoption
Other expenses that are directly related to and for the principal purpose of the legal adoption of an eligible child

If you’re not sure whether you are eligible to use the adoption tax credit or if you paid qualifying adoption expenses in 2022, a tax professional will be able to provide more information.

How Much is the 2022 Adoption Tax Credit?

The amount families are eligible to receive from the Federal Adoption Tax Credit depends on a number of factors and will vary based on their unique situation. Families who finalize the adoption of a child with special needs in 2022 and fulfill the eligibility requirements above, can claim the full credit of $14,890 whether or not they had any expenses.

Other adopters can claim a credit based on their qualified adoption expenses, which are the reasonable and necessary expenses paid to complete the adoption that have not been reimbursed by anyone else. If the expenses are less than $14,890, the adopters claim only the amount of those expenses. However, if the expenses exceed $14,890, the adopters can claim up to, but no more than, $14,890, per child.

The Adoption Tax Credit limit is based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and is recalculated each year based on current cost of living. Income affects how much of the credit parents can claim. For the 2022 Adoption Tax Credit, families with a MAGI below $223,410 can claim full credit. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of $223,410, and it’s completely phased out at $263,410 or more.

Adoption and taxes can be complicated, and you will likely have questions about the tax benefits available in your specific situation. While we hope you find the information in this post helpful, keep in mind that Adoption Choices does not offer tax advice. Talk to a tax professional for more specific information about how the Adoption Tax Credit can benefit your family.

Future: 2023 Adoption Tax Credit – If you adopt a child in 2023, the credit maximum amount will be $15,950 with an AGI phaseout threshold of $239,230 to $279,230.

Present: 2022 Adoption Tax Credit – If you adopt a child in 2022, the credit maximum amount will be $14,890 with an AGI phaseout threshold of $223,410 to $263,410.

Past: 2021 Adoption Tax Credit – for the past tax year 2021, the maximum adoption credit was $14,440 per child with a phaseout range of $216,660 – $256,660.

Interaction with the Child Tax Credit

The Child Tax Credit changed in 2018, there was also a temporary change in 2021. The amount is now $2,000 per child, but only $1,400 of it can become the refundable additional child tax credit (dependent on the family’s earned income), with the remaining $600 a non-refundable Child Tax Credit. This credit will supersede the adoption tax credit when reducing the tax liability.

To determine the amount of the Child Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit a family uses, a family must complete the Child Tax Credit Worksheet in IRS Publication 972. Software and tax preparers will automatically calculate these amounts.

Taxpayers who can answer “Yes” on the last line of the Child Tax Credit Worksheet may be eligible for the Additional Child Tax Credit, which is a refundable credit (meaning they can claim the credit regardless of their tax liability). To claim the Additional Child Tax Credit, parents must complete IRS Schedule 8812.

How Much Taxpayers Will Benefit

How much, if any, of the adoption tax credit a parent will receive depends on their federal income tax liability in 2022 (and the next five years). In one year, taxpayers can use as much of the credit as the full amount of their federal income tax liability, which is the amount on line 11 of the Form 1040 less certain other credits (see Child Tax Credit above). Even those who normally get a refund may still have tax liability and could get a larger refund with the adoption tax credit. Taxpayers have six years (the year they first claimed the credit plus five additional years) to use the credit.

People who do not have federal income tax liability will not benefit this year. We encourage them to claim the credit and carry it forward to future years since the credit may become refundable again in the future.

Claiming the Adoption Tax Credit

To claim the credit, taxpayers will complete a 2022 version of IRS Form 8839 (available at irs.gov) and submit it with their Form 1040 when they file their 2022 taxes. Most tax software will create this form for you. Before filing, taxpayers should review 2022 Form 8839 instructions (will also be available at www.irs.gov) very carefully to be sure that they apply for the credit correctly and to see if anything has changed. The instructions are needed to calculate how much of the credit will be used.

When claiming the adoption tax credit, you’ll want to be ready with documents such as:

The final adoption decree
A placement agreement from an authorized agency
Court documents
A state’s determination for special-needs children, if applicable

This is a lot of information, and you probably have more questions about the tax credit for adopting a child in your specific situation. Adoption Choices does not offer tax advice and recommends that you talk to your tax professional for specific information on how the Adoption Tax Credit can benefit your family.

Birth Father's Adoption Role and Responsibility in Missouri

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Birth Father’s Role and Responsibility in Missouri

June 13, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Birth Father’s Role and Responsibility in Missouri

By Alex Reza

There are many misconceptions that birth fathers and the birth father’s role during the adoption process. However, this is not the case. Birth fathers have many responsibilities and play an important role in giving a baby up for adoption. We understand that considering adoption is not easy for birth parents, as you may feel guilt and a sense of loss. It may be difficult to express your thoughts and feelings about being unable to care for your child. Unfortunately, these feelings are not unusual. However, we understand you care about your child’s future and want the best for them.

This is where adoption agencies in Missouri can help. You will be very involved in deciding what is best for your child, even if you are no longer with the birth mother. Both birth parents should be aware that the birth father will not play a marginal role in the adoption of their child but instead will play an active role as a responsible and supportive partner in putting together an adoption plan.

Adoption Choices of Missouri is a licensed, private, child-placing agency that serves women facing unplanned pregnancies and prospective adoptive families. If birth parents are considering placement and wondering what role the birth father will play, please click on this link. An adoption specialist will assist you throughout the process: adoption agencies near me.

Are Adoption Agency is here to Provide Adoption Support

As the birth father, you will be the birth mother’s key support throughout the adoption process. You will help her make important decisions as to what is best for your child. The birth mother will need your support when you both become involved in choosing an adoptive family for your child. You will also need to decide what type of adoption you would like and if you want to stay informed about your child’s progress.

Communication will be very important during this process as it’s not easy to make decisions when emotions are running high. Being a supportive partner and respecting the birth mother’s decisions will be very important. The birth mother will benefit from your caring and understanding support as she goes through the pain of adoption loss. Adoption agencies in Missouri will also offer the support you will both need.

A Birth Father’s Role Includes Providing Your Complete Medical History for an Adoption

This is very important because, at some point in your child’s life, they may need to know if there are any hereditary illnesses in their family’s history for their health and wellbeing. Being transparent and providing detailed health information regarding illnesses, substance abuse, or mental health issues can help your child deal with future health complications. If your child is aware that they may be predisposed to certain illnesses, then they can be proactive with preventive care. This information will also help the adoptive family provide the best care for your child.

Helping the Birth Mother with the Adoption Plan

Think of an adoption plan as a road map that takes you through all of the key details of your adoption. Each adoption is unique, and you should feel comfortable expressing your opinions and desires for your child. You may disagree with the birth mother on some important issues. That is why your involvement is imperative to develop a plan with which the two of you feel most comfortable. There are different choices that you have to decide on when it comes to adoption.

Open adoption is where you would remain in contact with the adoptive family and will receive information about your child. There is also a semi-open adoption where you would receive this information through the adoption agency and can remain anonymous. Finally, you can choose a closed adoption where you would not receive any information about your child. In essence, you sever ties. The choice is yours and the birth mother’s to make. A key element of the adoption plan is that you also get to choose the family or individual that will adopt your child.

The Birth Father Might be Present at the Hospital During the Birth of Your Child

Depending on your relationship with the birth mother, you may also be a part of putting together a hospital plan. This is a plan of what the birth mother wants to do while in the hospital. You should decide how involved you would like to be. Do you want to be there during the birth of your child? Do you want to possibly take the birth mother to the hospital? You and the birth mother may want to spend some time alone with your child before he or she goes to the adoptive family. These are all important decisions that should be determined before your child’s birth. Your local adoption agency has a lot of experience in this area and can guide you through everything you need to consider.

It’s very important as a birth father that you do not neglect the emotional aspect of giving a baby up for adoption. You may feel it’s more manly to not express your grief and attempt to bury your feelings. However, how you feel is natural, and it is healthy to express what you are going through. Adoption Choices of Missouri offers counseling to both birth parents to help process these emotions.

As birth parents, you may be wondering what the birth father’s role will be throughout the adoption process. If you are seeking information, your local adoption agency can assist you. Click on this link to locate the adoption agencies near me. They are available to help you throughout this important journey.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

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Birth Father Consent: Can I Choose Adoption in Missouri Without the Birth Father’s Permission?

June 6, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Birth Father Consent: Can I Choose Adoption in Missouri Without the Birth Father’s Permission?

By Alex Reza

It is possible that your unplanned pregnancy has complicated your relationship with the birth father. Rest assured that this is not unusual. You will need the birth father’s consent to put your baby up for adoption as. Generally speaking, a child cannot be put up for adoption without the consent of both parents. The birth father does have rights that must be taken into account when adoption is involved. However, some exceptions may apply.

Depending upon the circumstances between you and the birth father, you may be able to move forward without his consent. For example, if the father of your child denies he is the legitimate parent and denies paternity. There may also be an instance where the birth father’s identity is unknown to you, or if known, the court could determine that he is unfit to care for your child or that he abandoned the child. It is imperative in Missouri and most state that your child’s welfare is of primary concern.

That is why Adoption Choices of Missouri is available to help guide you through this complex issue of consent. Each adoption situation is unique, and each state’s adoption laws are different. Our adoption specialists will help you determine the best course of action to proceed with your adoption plan, and they will provide expert legal representation. For further help, please click on this link: adoption agencies near me.

How does the state of Missouri define a birth father?

A birth father is the biological father of a child, so your child would share DNA with this individual. If a man is married to you at the time of your child’s birth or is a registered partner, he will be considered the child’s legal father or a presumed father. If you are not married, then legally, he would be considered a putative father. For more information about the different types of both fathers please consult your adoption specialist.

As a putative father, he would need to establish his paternity with the court system no later than fifteen days after your child’s birth, and he must file with the putative father registry. If the birth or putative father consents to the adoption, he will no longer have any future interest in the child, and he terminates his parental rights.

We understand that this may seem like a complicated process. However, adoption agencies in Missouri, along with an assigned adoption attorney, can assist you in navigating the laws governing adoption. Our aim is to make this entire process less stressful for you. In addition, you will have a Birth Parent Counselor to help you understand all the intricacies of adoption and which course of action would be best for you and your child.

Navigating the process of consent with the birth father

Generally, the birth mother has more importance and leverage when it comes to making the decisions about giving a baby up for adoption. If the birth father has abandoned your child for at least six months before you put your baby up for adoption, his consent will not be required. Also, if the birth father denies the paternity of your child, then again, his consent is not necessary.

To help determine the necessity of the birth father’s consent, please contact your local adoption agency. We will help you understand the legal requirements of adoption in Missouri. If the birth father agrees with you to place your child up for adoption, the adoption process will not be complicated. He will just need to give his written consent before a judge or notary public and provide two witnesses to his signature on the document.

As a full-service, licensed adoption agency, Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to guide you through this process. For further help, please click on this link to find adoption agencies near me to provide you with all the resources you will need to protect your adoption rights as a birth mother and obtain the free legal representation necessary to assist in the consent process.

The importance of an adoption plan

Depending on your relationship with the birth father during your pregnancy, it is important to have an adoption plan.

This will be very helpful if your relationship with the birth father is complicated, abusive, or contentious. In these cases, it is possible to proceed with the adoption without his consent. Of utmost importance are the safety of you and your child. If the birth father is absent or does not want to acknowledge he is the father, a judge can grant you sole parental rights. This will allow you to proceed with the adoption without the birth father’s involvement.

In addition, an adoption plan will provide you with counseling, legal advice, prenatal care during your pregnancy, financial support, and safe housing if needed. Most importantly, we will provide you with emotional support throughout your adoption journey. We are here for you to help out in any way we can!

If you are a woman considering adoption and seeking information on the process, your local adoption agency can assist you. Click on this link to locate the adoption agencies near me. They are available to help you throughout this important journey.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond. Please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

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2021 Adoption Tax Credit

January 24, 2022 Adoption Choices of Missouri

2021 Adoption Tax Credit

The 2021 tax filing season is upon us! The Internal Revenue Service recommends taxpayers take time to determine if they are eligible for important tax credits. Many of our adoptive families will be applying for the Adoption Tax Credit. With that in mind, we have compiled some basic information about the 2021 adoption tax credit.

Adoption Tax Credit 101 – for 2021 adoptions (claimed in early 2022)

If you have done any research into adoption financing, you’ve probably heard about the Federal Adoption Tax Credit. But what exactly is this credit, and how does it work?

The Federal Adoption Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit that helps families offset the costs of qualifying adoption expenses. Families who paid qualifying adoption expenses in 2021, and owe taxes, may be eligible to benefit from this credit. For adoptions finalized in 2021, there is a federal adoption tax credit of up to $14,440 per child. The 2021 adoption tax credit is NOT refundable, which means taxpayers can only use the credit if they have federal income tax liability.

The credit applies one time for each adopted child and should be claimed when taxpayers file taxes for 2021.

To be eligible for the credit, parents must:

Have adopted a child other than a stepchild — A child must be either under 18 or be physically or mentally unable to take care of him or herself.
Be within the income limits — Income affects how much of the credit parents can claim. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of $223,410, and it’s completely phased out at $263,410 or more.

According to the IRS, “qualified adoption expenses” can include items like:

Reasonable and necessary adoption fees
Court costs and attorney fees
Traveling expenses related to adoption
Other expenses that are directly related to and for the principal purpose of the legal adoption of an eligible child

If you’re not sure whether you are eligible to use the adoption tax credit or if you paid qualifying adoption expenses in 2021, a tax professional will be able to provide more information.

How Much is the 2021 Adoption Tax Credit?

The amount families are eligible to receive from the Federal Adoption Tax Credit depends on a number of factors and will vary based on their unique situation. Families who finalize the adoption of a child with special needs in 2021 and fulfill the eligibility requirements above, can claim the full credit of $14,4400 whether or not they had any expenses.

Other adopters can claim a credit based on their qualified adoption expenses, which are the reasonable and necessary expenses paid to complete the adoption that have not been reimbursed by anyone else. If the expenses are less than $14,4400, the adopters claim only the amount of those expenses. However, if the expenses exceed $14,4400, the adopters can claim up to, but no more than, $14,4400, per child.

The Adoption Tax Credit limit is based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) and is recalculated each year based on current cost of living. Income affects how much of the credit parents can claim. For the 2021 Adoption Tax Credit, families with a MAGI below $216,660 can claim full credit. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) in excess of $216,660, and it’s completely phased out at $256,660 or more.

2022 Adoption Tax Credit – If you adopt a child in 2022, the credit maximum amount will be $14,890 with an AGI phaseout threshold of $223,410 to $263,410.

2020 Adoption Tax Credit – for the past tax year 2020, the maximum adoption credit was $14,300 per child with a phaseout range of $214,520 – $254,520.

Interaction with the Child Tax Credit

The Child Tax Credit changed in 2018. The amount is now $2,000 per child, but only $1,400 of it can become the refundable additional child tax credit (dependent on the family’s earned income), with the remaining $600 a non-refundable Child Tax Credit. This credit will supersede the adoption tax credit when reducing the tax liability.

How Much Taxpayers Will Benefit

How much, if any, of the adoption tax credit a parent will receive depends on their federal income tax liability in 2020 (and the next five years). In one year, taxpayers can use as much of the credit as the full amount of their federal income tax liability, which is the amount on line 11 of the Form 1040 less certain other credits (see Child Tax Credit above). Even those who normally get a refund may still have tax liability and could get a larger refund with the adoption tax credit. Taxpayers have six years (the year they first claimed the credit plus five additional years) to use the credit.

Claiming the Adoption Tax Credit

To claim the credit, taxpayers will complete a 2021 version of IRS Form 8839 (available at irs.gov in early 2022) and submit it with their Form 1040 when they file their 2021 taxes. Most tax software will create this form for you. Before filing, taxpayers should review 2021 Form 8839 instructions (will also be available at www.irs.gov) very carefully to be sure that they apply for the credit correctly and to see if anything has changed. The instructions are needed to calculate how much of the credit will be used.

When claiming the adoption tax credit, you’ll want to be ready with documents such as:

The final adoption decree
A placement agreement from an authorized agency
Court documents
A state’s determination for special-needs children, if applicable

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Do I Have to Tell the Birth Father About an Adoption Plan?

December 5, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Do I Have to Tell the Birth Father About an Adoption Plan?

As a birth mother, you may have a great relationship with your baby’s birth father, or you might not even know who the birth father is. Maybe you aren’t on speaking terms with the birth father, or perhaps you’ve lost contact with him. Regardless of the situation, your baby has a birth father, and there may be some concern over whether or not he will be included in the adoption plan.

Due to legal requirements, there is an extent to which the birth father will be involved, even at a private adoption agency like Adoption Choices of Missouri. Many states will require the birth mother to post an adoption announcement in the legal advertising portion of the newspaper, which is meant to inform any potential birth father of the decision to give a baby up for adoption. Talk to your legal advisor or adoption caseworker for more information about the legal requirements of adoption and consent. Our adoption agency in Missouri has gone through this process many times and is prepared to guide you through it with as much clarity and ease as possible.

How Involved Can the Birth Father Be?

It is important that any birth mother follows the requirements to receive the birth father’s consent for the adoption to prevent any complications in the future. After this requirement is fulfilled, involvement varies from case to case. In some situations, such as many teen pregnancy cases, after the consent, the birth father may choose how much involvement he has in the adoption process, although this does not have to be true for every situation. Speak to your adoption caseworker for more information about the birth father’s role and responsibilities.

If you have a good relationship, the birth father can be just as involved as you, the birth mother. He can help decide the future family of your baby and guide you as you figure out all the details of your adoption plan. The birth father can provide a great form of support for birth mothers. Yet, there are cases where birth mothers have a negative relationship with the birth father and may have a hard time involving them in the adoption plan. If things get complicated between you and the birth father, Adoption Choices of Missouri is equipped to assist you in sorting out any disruptions between you and the birth father.

Do I Get the Final Say in the Adoption Journey?

If the birth father wants to be involved in the adoption plan throughout the adoption process, he has a right to contribute. Although interacting with the birth father may cause pain and negative feelings to resurface, if he genuinely desires to help in the adoption plan, keep in mind that the process is meant to provide a secure future for your child. Thus, allowing feelings to get in the way of the valuable insight he may provide to the process may not be what’s best for your child’s future.

So, Do I Tell the Baby’s Birth Father About the Adoption Plan?

The various requirements of the adoption process can get complicated. Speaking to an adoption caseworker or legal advisor can help clarify how to approach the situation. This news may be harder for some to take than others, but if considering adoption is the best choice for your child, in the long run, letting the complication of figuring out who the birth father is or concern over his consent steer you away from choosing it would be detrimental. Ultimately, as a birth mother, try to approach the feelings the birth father may have with grace and understanding because your child is his child too. Discuss with him the courage and love it takes to choose the route of adoption for your child and come to an agreement together on how to deal with your pregnancy if possible for more information on the adoption process and what next steps you can take with your pregnancy, contact Adoption Choices of Missouri.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Kyla’s life has been filled with adventure and transition – both good and difficult. She loves to take on challenges head-on and lead an organized and balanced life. She’s passionate about many different areas and loves how writing gives her the flexibility to engage in research of almost every field of study imaginable. She grew up very involved in theater and music and continues to use her free time to play the piano and sing. However, she is also very interested in how the natural world works and takes any chance she has to spend the day away from crowds, enveloped in the seclusion of nature. Growing up in the Philippines, she’s had some unique experiences that have shaped her worldview and given her a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures. She gets excited about research papers, completed to-do lists, and her morning coffee.

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Self-Care Tips For Birth Moms During The Adoption Process

October 5, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Self-Care Tips For Birth Moms During The Adoption Process

Are you pregnant and considering adoption in Kansas City, Missouri? If you are looking for self-care tips for women during the Missouri adoption process, have you considered a healthy diet, exercise, prenatal massage or spa treatments, meditation, following doctor’s orders, or even taking part in something fun like a hobby or quick getaway? All of these options are great ways to cope with any anxiety, issues, or concerns throughout your unplanned pregnancy and the Missouri adoption process. Adoption Choices of Missouri understands the importance of self-care. Here are a number of self-care tips for birth moms going through the adoption process:

Healthy, Unplanned Pregnancy: Healthy Diet

Whether or not you are placing your child up for adoption in Kansas City, a healthy diet is a great way to take care of yourself and have a healthy pregnancy. Try to include healthy fats, fiber-rich carbohydrates, and proteins. Foods with folic acid are also good at aiding in your baby’s neural tube growth, prevents neurological birth defects, and prevents anemia for you. Such recommended foods include leafy greens, cooked fish, chicken, beans, yogurt, milk, nuts, and seeds.

Healthy, Unplanned Pregnancy: Exercise

If you are putting your child up for adoption in Missouri, low-impact exercise can also aid in a healthy pregnancy, while aiding in your own self-care whilst going through the Missouri adoption process. Yoga, taking a walk, swimming, stationary cycling, aerobics, pilates, and strength training are all good examples of ways you can exercise and work off any stress. Exercise is good to treat anxiety and depression, aid in brain function, lower blood pressure, and aid in cardiovascular health as well.

Unplanned Pregnancy Self-Care and Stress Relief

If you need something to take your mind off of the Missouri adoption process or relax and have some fun, a brief getaway or hobby can help. Missouri has some great sights to see, such as the Missouri Botanical Gardens. You can always take in the fresh air and nature, absorb some sun, and take a nice walk through the gardens to unwind and release tension. There are many great museums, zoos, and other tourist attractions you can go to and see to have some fun.

A hobby is another great way to help your mind focus on something and relax. Painting, crocheting, knitting, reading, or journaling are all great hobbies you can take part in. There may be some groups or clubs in your community you can join to do these activities with and seek some company, as well.

Self-Care and Stress Relief During An Unplanned Pregnancy

A good way to relax during your pregnancy and the Missouri adoption process is a prenatal massage. Prenatal massage is a good way to increase cardiovascular health, improve sleep, and reduce back and joint pain. Just as prenatal massage can aid you in these ways, meditation can also be of use. There are many guided meditations online through videos, apps, music, and podcasts to help you. Essential oils can also help you relax and get into the right mindset for relaxation and meditation. Remember, meditation can aid in sleep and rest is an important thing to get a lot of throughout pregnancy.

Unplanned Pregnancy: Medical Health

If you are placing your child up for adoption in Missouri, to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy, be sure to take your prenatal vitamins and attend all of your OB/GYN doctor’s appointments. Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid to aid in neurological tubular growth and development. You can always get them over the counter at your local pharmacy. Your doctor is also here to help you address any concerns, no matter how small.

Unplanned Pregnancy: Mental Health

Anxiety, grief, and depression, or postpartum depression are possibilities during and/or after your unplanned pregnancy, especially during the Missouri adoption process. Know that We are here to help and support you in any way, especially by listening to you and aiding in any mental health issues. We have a relationship with New Perspectives Therapeutic Services, a great counseling service ready to aid in assisting you throughout and following the Missouri adoption process.

Missouri Adoption Self-Care Tips for Birth Moms

We hope you appreciated these tips for self-care. Adoption Choices of Missouri understands the importance of self-care throughout the Missouri adoption process. We also understand the difficulty of this time and how much stress you may be under. Self-care can be very helpful during this time. Know that you are not alone and we are here for you. These tips are only suggestions to help you through this time and process. We are ready to help you through this process. We are here to provide support; rely on us if you need anything at all.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Carly is a recent graduate of Connecticut College with a dual degree in Psychology and Italian Studies. Graduating Cum Laude with honors in both Psychology and Italian departments, Carly has a background in gender-related research through the Connecticut College Psychology Department and Honors Theses Program. When not trying to figure out life or working, Carly is reading historical fiction novels or playing with her black cat, Isabelle.

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Why MO Adoption is a Wonderful Process

September 20, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

Why MO Adoption is a Wonderful Process

Having an unexpected or unplanned pregnancy is always a tough experience, but it is nothing to be afraid of because you have options. One of these options is MO adoption. Whether your reason to go with the adoption process is that you do not feel ready to be a parent, financial reasons, or unsupportive family members, adoption is always a good choice. Here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, our staff is ready to help you.

How Do I Know If Adoption Is For Me?

How women come to the choice of adoption is different for everyone. It can be because of the reasons mentioned above or because they do not wish to terminate their pregnancy. Either way, if you are dealing with any of those reasons and do not wish to terminate your pregnancy, then our pregnant adoption help could be for you. Adoption in MO is a wonderful opportunity to help ensure that your unborn child has the future that you want them to have. We know that the MO adoption process can seem scary, but we are here to help you through the process.

Other Reasons Adoption in Missouri Can Be For You

On top of the reasons mentioned above, there are some others that birth mothers might deal with that leads them to decide to choose the MO adoption process. Some birth mothers choose adoption because they feel that they are not mentally ready and prepared to raise a child. Mental health is very important, and if you are not mentally ready and prepared to raise a child, then adoption can be for you. It is okay to have this feeling, and there is nothing wrong with it. Another reason that birth mothers choose adoption is a medical condition. You could have a medical condition, and you can feel that with this condition, it would be difficult to raise a child. There is nothing wrong with feeling this way. Here at Adoption Choices of Missouri, our staff is here to support you on your journey.

If You Wish to Ensure Your Baby’s Future Then Adoption is For You!

Adoption is a wonderful opportunity to ensure your baby’s future. If you decide to work with us, we will make sure that you have all the information you need to create an adoption plan that you feel safe and comfortable with. Heading into the adoption process, we know there is a common misconception that you will not have a say in the process or your adoption plan. That is not the case when you work with us here at Adoption Choices of Missouri. When you work with us, we are here to help guide and support you. You will be assigned a caseworker who will provide you with all the information you need to get your adoption plan started and created.

You Are in Control of Your MO Adoption Plan!

The adoption process is nothing to be afraid of. During the adoption process, you will be in complete control of how your adoption plan is. Our staff will answer any questions you have about the adoption process. You get to decide on what type of adoption plan you want to have, the adoptive family or parent, and the type of communication you have with the adoptive family or parent after you have given birth and they are officially the parents of the baby.

Contact Us Today! Adoption Choices of Missouri Is Here To Help

Adoption Choices of Missouri is here for you. No matter what your reasoning is for going with the adoption process, our staff is here to help you and support you. We know Adoption in Missouri can be stressful, and if you work with us, we will do our best to make sure you have everything you need. Our mission is to help you build an adoption plan that you feel comfortable and secure with. We also want to make sure that you feel like your adoption plan is ensuring your baby’s future. You can find out contact information on our website.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the Author: Nickolas Cooney is a senior at Arizona State University working through his final semester to get his bachelor’s degree in Sports Journalism. Nick also attended the University of Alabama for his first year and a half of college when he was a biology major. He decided to move back to Arizona and transfer to ASU when he changed his major because he saw more opportunities at the Walter Cronkite School of Mass Communication and Journalism. Since transferring to ASU, Nick has been a reporter for the AIA in Arizona for a semester and worked with the Phoenix Suns and Rising for stories.

While writing about sports and creating content about sports is Nick’s passion. He also is very passionate about playing sports as well. He grew up playing baseball, basketball, and racing motocross. Nick still does his best to ride and race motocross when he has time, but he has been focusing on his schooling and another one of his passions, gaming. Nick is an avid gamer, and he is even a streamer on Twitch. He has built up a fan base to be a part of the Twitch Affiliate program.

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5 Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy Before Adoption in MO

September 15, 2021 Adoption Choices of Missouri

5 Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy Before Adoption in MO

Regardless of your choice if you are pregnant considering adoption or if you choose to parent your child, the need to live a healthy lifestyle remains the same. Pregnancy not only changes your body but also takes a lot of its resources. Through hormonal changes, fatigue, and other symptoms, getting used to changing your life is challenging enough, and maintaining healthy eating habits can get tough. Your doctor may have already prescribed a prenatal supplement, but this does not replace healthy food. There may also be foods that you previously loved that you must now forgo or cut back on. The change, though, is not impossible. We at Adoption Choices of Missouri want to help you keep a healthy lifestyle for your health and the health of your unborn child. Below are five tips for a healthy pregnancy before adoption in MO.

Go To All Of Your Medical Appointments And Keep The Adoptive Parents Informed

Neglecting your appointments is far too easy to do, but checking in should be one of your top priorities. You might have some anxieties, and having a doctor to answer those questions and see if everything’s going smooth will ease the nerves. They will also inform you of any complications and let you know your options. Your child’s adoptive family should also be in the know of what’s going on, so they can adapt.

Exercise and Move Your Body Throughout your Pregnancy

Exercise is often praised for weight loss benefits, but there are many other ways it can help you too. Even light-intensity exercises such as walking a few times a week can help. Although heavy lifting is not recommended for pregnant women, moderate exercise is safe. Exercise helps with stress, blood circulation, energy, sleep, strengthening muscles, and more. Talk to your doctor about your exercise routine to see what he or she recommends. Contact your healthcare provider for more information.

Eliminate Unwanted Toxins During Your Pregnancy

You can’t avoid every toxin, but cutting it down will reduce the risks of birth defects and other problems for your baby as he or she grows. Environmental toxins can be made or natural. Many of the ways you can cut down on toxins are easy and will give your baby the best chance at health. Three things you can do to avoid toxins include:

Avoid BPAs: BPA stands for bisphenol-A. It’s used in resins and polymers, but unfortunately, disrupts hormones that already fluctuate during pregnancy. You can reduce your exposure to BPAs by swapping plastic water bottles and containers for glass, avoiding canned soup, and using gloves when handling a lot of paper receipts. Occasionally, touching a receipt is harmless, but if you work as a cashier or perform another job with a lot of them, BPAs are permeable through the skin.
Avoid phthalates: Phthalates are in plastics like BPAs, but they are also in beauty products such as lotion and nail polishes and fragrance products like candles and perfumes. They disrupt hormones and the endocrine system. Replace scented products with essential oils and buy phthalate-free products.
Avoid PFCs: PFC means perfluorinated chemicals, which you will get most of your exposure from non-stick cookware. These chemicals can limit the growth of your baby and affect brain and organ development. Cast iron and glass cookware are safe alternatives. Beware of lead if you use ceramic.

Avoid Certain Foods Through Your Adoption Journey

Your physician has already advised eating a balanced diet. Chances are, you were already briefed on the dangers of alcohol and smoking during pregnancy. In today’s environment, though, there are other things you will have to consider reducing your intake of due to toxins. These things include:

Fish with higher levels of mercury: this includes tuna, King mackerel, marlin, swordfish, Orange roughy, shark, and tilefish.
Raw or undercooked eggs, seafood, meat, and poultry: You are at increased risk of bacterial food poisoning. Use a thermometer to make sure your foods are cooked to the right temperature, and cook eggs until both whites and yolks are firm.
Unpasteurized milk or juice.
Excess caffeine

Take Care and Eat A Balanced Diet to Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy Before Adoption in MO

Eating healthy is a challenge for a lot of people, but remember to do the same while pregnant comes with myths. Your nutrition needs will go up, but your calorie needs won’t increase much. A well-balanced diet includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals. Consult with your doctor for your calorie needs throughout your pregnancy.

Prenatal vitamins are made to help fill in any gaps, but there is no substitute for a good diet. Folic acid, a B vitamin, is important and has lower the risk of a neural tube defect in babies such as spina bifida. Choline also helps prevent birth defects in the brain and spine. However, it is often not included in prenatal supplements, so talk to your doctor about choline supplements.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves women facing unplanned pregnancies serving over 100 women annually. Our counselors give support and help and are committed to supporting the women we serve regardless of the choice they make.

Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll-free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 816-527-9800

Meet the author: Seannea Wharton is a student at Miami University majoring in English. As of now, she is working on her first novel, starting a book blog, and learning American Sign Language. She was raised in a suburban town in New Jersey and has various hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crocheting. She enjoys learning about a wide range of topics and loves finding new books to read.

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