The cost of adoptions varies greatly. Typical costs may include reasonable living expenses for the birth mother during her pregnancy, pregnancy­related medical expenses, home study fees, court costs, agency or attorney's fees, and rehabilitation expenses for the birth mother after the birth of the baby. However, each adoption is different and may not necessarily include all of these costs. Types of adoptions include private independent adoptions, agency adoptions, international adoptions, minority/special needs adoptions, and relative and step­parent adoptions. The total cost of a private independent adoption between non­ relatives can range between eight thousand and twenty thousand dollars for uncontested placement. These fees may be much higher depending on the medical fees, reimbursement for the birth parent's pregnancy­related expenses, legal fees, and counseling services. Agency fees also vary, with some agencies charging a sliding fee based on the income of the adoptive parent. Adoptions through the Department of Human Services can cost much less, and in the case of special needs children, the adoptive parents may receive an adoption subsidy. Each agency, attorney, country, and state can set fees independent of other providers. Discussion of fees early in the process is recommended. For more information on adoption costs, contact a qualified attorney.