When deciding what to do about an unplanned pregnancy, there are a lot of factors to take into account. As you weigh your options, it’s important to assess your physical, mental and emotional readiness to raise a baby — and, of course, you will need to consider your financial preparedness as well.

At this point in your decision-making process, you’re probably asking yourself some big questions, like:

• Can I afford this baby right now? According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, it cost the average middle-income married couple about $245,000 to raise a child in 2013.

• Can I afford to have an abortion? There are a number of factors that can impact the cost of abortion but, according to Planned Parenthood, costs may be up to $1,500 during the first trimester and increase the further along a woman is in her pregnancy.

• Does it cost to put a baby up for adoption in Wisconsin? No. As an expectant mother considering adoption, the process is always 100 percent free to you — and you may also qualify for additional financial assistance for adoption in Wisconsin to cover certain expenses during your pregnancy.

Financial concerns often play a role in a prospective birth mother’s adoption decision. If you’re wondering, “Does putting a baby up for adoption cost money in Wisconsin?” or “Can I get money for giving my baby up for adoption in WI?” know that you are not alone.

We often hear from women who have similar questions about the average cost of giving a baby up for adoption and adoption compensation for birth mothers in Wisconsin. Many women are surprised to learn that not only is adoption the least expensive of their unplanned pregnancy options, but that they may even “get paid” for adoption-related living expenses throughout the process.

Here, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about financial support when giving baby up for adoption in WI.

“Is putting a baby up for adoption in Wisconsin free?”

Yes. It is completely free to make an adoption plan for your baby. All of the adoption services you need will be provided to you free of charge, including:

• Adoption planning and case management services

• 24/7, obligation-free counseling and support

• Independent legal representation to protect your rights and interests

• Medical expenses, including prenatal and hospital care

• Any other adoption-related services

“How much does it cost to give a child up for adoption in Wisconsin?”

It should not cost you anything to make an adoption plan. Your adoption services will be paid for by your adoption professional and/or the adoptive family, so there’s no need to stress about affording the adoption process. All you need to focus on is keeping yourself healthy and making the best possible choices for your baby.

“Do mothers get paid for adoption in Wisconsin?”

Because prospective birth mothers can get paid for certain adoption- and pregnancy-related living expenses, some women wonder, “Do you get paid to give your baby up for adoption in Wisconsin?”

The answer is no; adoption for compensation in Wisconsin and throughout the U.S. is illegal. The financial assistance you can receive for living expenses should not be confused with “giving a baby up for adoption money” in WI.

However, prospective birth mothers in Wisconsin can get paid for certain living expenses during the adoption process, including:

• Living expenses up to $5,000 if necessary to protect your and your baby’s health

• Maternity clothes up to $300

• Transportation related to the pregnancy or adoption

“How can I get paid for adoption expenses in WI?”

The exact types and amount of financial assistance you can receive will vary depending on a number of factors, including your individual living situation. The best way to receive financial assistance for adoption in Wisconsin is by working with a licensed adoption professional like American Adoptions.

Your adoption specialist will help you determine what your financial needs are and how much you can receive in your circumstances. You can learn more about adoption financial assistance in Wisconsin by speaking with an adoption specialist at 1-800-ADOPTION.

“How do adoption agencies pay birth mothers in Wisconsin?”

Remember, your adoption agency is not “paying you” to place your baby for adoption. There are no adoption agencies that pay you in Wisconsin or anywhere else in the U.S. However, there are adoption professionals who are happy to help you get the financial support you need throughout the process.

American Adoptions can provide this financial assistance when you call 1-800-ADOPTION to start the process with our agency.

“Why does the birth mother get paid for adoption expenses?”

Making an adoption plan is emotionally challenging — and on top of that, pregnancy can be expensive. Expectant mothers simply shouldn’t have to worry about this added financial stress during what is already a difficult time.

Recognizing this, Wisconsin laws allow prospective birth mothers to receive free adoption services and help with pregnancy-related expenses. By eliminating the financial burden of pregnancy, childbirth and adoption, expectant mothers in Wisconsin can focus on what really matters: making a plan for their baby’s future.

To learn more about adoption financial assistance in Wisconsin, call 1-800-ADOPTION now or request free information online.

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