10 Best Child Adoption Agencies in Arizona, Your Complete Guide to Finding the Right Match

Choosing an adoption agency is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your journey to parenthood. Arizona offers diverse adoption pathways, from foster care adoption to private infant placement, each served by agencies with unique strengths and specializations.

This comprehensive guide examines 10 leading adoption agencies serving Arizona families. We’ve compiled licensing information, cost transparency, service specialties, and practical insights to help you make an informed choice.

Whether you’re considering foster care adoption, domestic infant placement, or international adoption, understanding your options is the first step toward building your family.

Understanding Arizona’s Adoption Laws

Arizona’s adoption system operates through licensed agencies regulated by the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS). The state offers multiple adoption pathways:

Foster Care Adoption involves children already in the state system, often with subsidized or minimal costs. These children may be older, part of sibling groups, or have special needs.

Private Domestic Adoption typically involves newborns or infants, with birth parents selecting adoptive families. Costs range from $15,000 to $50,000 depending on agency and services.

International Adoption requires Hague-accredited agencies and involves additional legal complexities and costs.

All Arizona adoption agencies must maintain proper licensing through DCS. Always verify an agency’s current licensing status before beginning your adoption journey.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

Our evaluation considered multiple factors important to prospective adoptive parents:

• Licensing and Legal Standing: Current DCS licensing and accreditation status
• Service Specialization: Types of adoption offered (foster, infant, international, kinship)
• Cost Transparency: Availability of published fee schedules and financial information
• Geographic Coverage: Counties and regions served within Arizona
• Support Services: Pre-adoption education, post-placement counseling, subsidy assistance
• Community Reputation: Years of operation and established track record

This guide presents agencies alphabetically within their specialty categories, not as a definitive ranking. Each family’s needs are unique, and the “best” agency depends on your specific circumstances.

Quick Comparison: Arizona Adoption Agencies at a Glance

The 10 Leading Child Adoption Agencies in Arizona

1. AASK (Aid to Adoption of Special Kids)

Overview
AASK stands as one of Arizona’s premier foster care adoption agencies, specializing in matching children with special needs to loving homes. As a licensed foster care provider working closely with DCS, AASK focuses on children who may be harder to place, including older children, sibling groups, and those with medical or emotional needs.

Contact Information

• Website: aask-az.org
• Phone: (602) 254-2275
• Address: 2320 N. 20th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

Cost and Financial Support
Because AASK primarily handles foster care adoption, traditional agency fees are minimal or fully subsidized. Families may receive:

• Non-recurring adoption expense reimbursement up to $2,000
• Ongoing monthly maintenance payments for children with special needs
• Medical and therapeutic support coverage
• Respite care assistance
• Federal adoption tax credit eligibility

Strengths

• Extensive experience with special needs placements
• Comprehensive support infrastructure including therapy referrals and post-placement coordination
• Family mentoring programs and community events
• Strong state subsidy and financial assistance guidance

Considerations

• Limited infant placement opportunities compared to private agencies
• County coverage may vary; verify availability in your area
• Focus on children already in foster care system

Questions to Ask

• “Do you operate in my county?”
• “What’s your current wait time for adoption certification?”
• “Which support and subsidy programs apply to my situation?”
• “Can you provide your complete cost and reimbursement schedule?”

Official Resources

• AASK Adoption Support Page
• AASK Adoption FAQ

2. Agape Adoption Agency of Arizona

Overview
Agape operates as a licensed Arizona adoption agency handling domestic infant adoption, kinship placements, and interstate adoptions. Their smaller scale allows for personalized attention throughout the adoption process.

Contact Information

• Website: agapeaz.org
• Phone: (480) 272-7994
• Address: 4302 E Broadway Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85040

Cost and Financial Support
Agape does not publish fixed cost schedules online. Fees vary depending on the adoption program (infant, interstate, or kinship). Some foster-to-adopt services may have reduced or subsidized costs.

Strengths

• Local, personalized service with direct staff engagement
• Multiple adoption pathway options
• Experience with kinship and interstate placements

Considerations

• Smaller matching pool compared to national agencies
• Limited published cost transparency; must request detailed fee information
• Less online information available for initial research

Questions to Ask

• “What are your complete fees for [specific program type]?”
• “What’s your average timeline from application to placement?”
• “Do you offer payment plans or financial assistance?”

3. American Adoptions of Arizona

Overview
American Adoptions operates as a major national agency with a strong Arizona presence. Fully licensed in Arizona, they specialize in domestic infant adoption with extensive resources and infrastructure to support families throughout the process.

Contact Information

• Website: americanadoptionsofarizona.com
• Phone: 1-800-ADOPTION (national line)

Cost and Financial Support
American Adoptions publishes transparent cost information. Private infant adoption typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on services, travel expenses, legal fees, and other factors. They provide detailed cost breakdowns during consultation.

Strengths

• High match volume and shorter average wait times
• Extensive educational resources and family preparation programs
• National network providing broader matching opportunities
• Strong financial transparency and planning assistance

Considerations

• Higher costs compared to smaller nonprofit agencies
• National scale may mean less personalized local attention
• May have limited presence in rural Arizona areas

Questions to Ask

• “What’s your current average wait time for placement?”
• “Which costs are fixed versus variable in my situation?”
• “What happens to fees if a match falls through?”

Official Resources

• Arizona Adoption Requirements

4. Building Arizona Families

Overview
Building Arizona Families offers comprehensive adoption services including domestic, foster, and international placements. As a Hague-accredited agency, they’re qualified to handle complex international adoption cases while maintaining strong domestic programs.

Contact Information

• Website: buildingarizonafamilies.com
• Contact through online form

Cost and Financial Support
Pricing is program-based and varies significantly depending on whether you pursue domestic, international, or foster adoption. The agency does not publish flat-rate fees and requires consultation for specific cost estimates.

Strengths

• Broad service range accommodating diverse family preferences
• Hague accreditation for international adoptions
• Experienced with complex placement scenarios
• Multiple pathway options under one agency

Considerations

• Complex cost structures requiring detailed consultation
• International placements may involve extended timelines
• Matching delays possible due to program complexity

Questions to Ask

• “What are the complete costs for [your chosen program]?”
• “What’s the typical timeline for [domestic/international/foster]?”
• “What accreditations and licenses does your agency hold?”

5. Catholic Charities – Joining Hearts

Overview
Operating as the licensed adoption arm of Catholic Charities in Arizona, Joining Hearts focuses primarily on private infant adoption with faith-based counseling and support services.

Contact Information

• Website: catholiccharitiesaz.org
• Phone: Varies by office location (see website)

Cost and Financial Support
Catholic Charities does not publicly disclose adoption fee schedules. Prospective parents must request specific pricing information directly from the agency.

Strengths

• Faith-based orientation providing spiritual support
• Strong community trust and established reputation
• Comprehensive birth parent counseling services
• Values-aligned services for Catholic families

Considerations

• Primarily focused on infant placements
• Limited foster care or older child programming
• Cost information not readily available online

Questions to Ask

• “What are your complete adoption fees?”
• “Do you serve families of all faiths?”
• “What post-placement support services do you provide?”

6. Christian Family Care (CFC)

Overview
Christian Family Care operates as a licensed Arizona adoption and foster care agency with strong DCS connections. They offer multiple adoption pathways including infant adoption, foster-to-adopt programs, and DCS placements.

Contact Information

• Website: cfcare.org
• Phone: (602) 234-1935
• Address: 2346 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Cost and Financial Support
CFC publishes partial fee information:

• Application fee: $150
• Education and training fee: $500
• Home study fee: $1,750
• DCS home study (foster track): May be free in certain cases
• Additional placement fees may apply for birth mother support

Strengths

• Strong pre-adoption, placement, and post-adoption support
• Direct DCS connections facilitating foster-to-adopt transitions
• Can convert foster licenses to adoption certifications
• Services available in both metro and rural areas
• Assistance navigating state subsidy programs

Considerations

• Not all fees publicly disclosed for every adoption track
• International or specialized placements may have higher costs and longer waits
• Faith-based orientation may not suit all families

Questions to Ask

• “What are the complete fees for my chosen adoption pathway?”
• “Can you help me access state adoption subsidies?”
• “What’s your average timeline from application to placement?”

Official Resources

• CFC Arizona Adoption Information
• CFC Adoption Booklet PDF
• DCS Christian Family Care Listing

7. Heart Gallery of Arizona

Overview
Heart Gallery of Arizona operates as a unique matching resource rather than a traditional placement agency. They showcase children legally available for adoption through DCS and licensed agencies, helping families connect with waiting children.

Contact Information

• Website: heartgalleryofamerica.org

Cost and Financial Support
Since Heart Gallery connects families to children available through foster care adoption, costs are minimal or fully subsidized through state programs.

Strengths

• Direct visibility into children actively waiting for adoption
• Connects prospective parents with licensed placement agencies
• Focuses on children with greatest need for permanent homes
• Minimal or no costs for families

Considerations

• Does not directly perform placements; you’ll still work through a licensed agency
• Children featured typically have special needs or circumstances
• Requires additional agency partnership for actual placement

Questions to Ask

• “Which licensed agencies work with children I see in your gallery?”
• “How do I begin the process after identifying a child?”
• “What support services are available for the children featured?”

8. Adoption Choices of Arizona

Overview
Adoption Choices of Arizona operates as a licensed private adoption agency with local offices providing personalized service for families pursuing domestic infant adoption.

Contact Information

• Website: adoptionchoicesofarizona.org
• Phone: (602) 870-8233

Cost and Financial Support
The agency does not publish fixed cost schedules online. Private adoption fees will include legal expenses, home study costs, medical expenses, and placement fees.

Strengths

• Local presence with hands-on staff engagement
• Direct personal attention throughout process
• Dedicated service suitable for families wanting close agency relationships
• Arizona-focused with understanding of local regulations

Considerations

• Cost transparency limited until direct inquiry
• Lower matching volume compared to large national agencies
• Less extensive online information for initial research

Questions to Ask

• “What are your complete adoption fees?”
• “What’s your current average wait time for placement?”
• “What post-placement services do you provide?”

9. Angel Adoption (Arizona)

Overview
Angel Adoption operates in Arizona with a focus on infant adoption and exceptional birth parent support services. Their emphasis on ethical placement and counseling creates a supportive environment for all parties.

Contact Information

• Website: angeladoptioninc.com
• Contact via website form

Cost and Financial Support
Fee schedules are not publicly listed. Expect typical private adoption expenses including legal, medical, and placement costs.

Strengths

• Strong commitment to birth mother support and counseling
• Focus on ethical placement practices
• Emphasis on openness and communication
• Comprehensive support throughout the adoption journey

Considerations

• Potentially limited client intake or capacity
• Less published cost and process transparency
• Smaller agency may mean longer matching times

Questions to Ask

• “What level of openness do you facilitate in placements?”
• “What are your complete fees and payment schedules?”
• “What support do you provide to birth parents?”

10. RISE Arizona Family Services

Overview
RISE Arizona Family Services appears in Arizona’s qualifying foster care charitable organizations (QFCO) listings and provides foster care and adoption services with flexibility to serve underserved counties.

Contact Information
Check Arizona Department of Revenue QFCO listings for current contact information and service locations.

Cost and Financial Support
Foster-adoption pathways are likely subsidized through state programs. Private adoption costs are not publicly listed.

Strengths

• Flexibility to serve underserved Arizona regions
• May offer lower-cost or subsidized adoption pathways
• Focus on connecting children with permanent homes

Considerations

• Relatively newer organization with limited public history
• Must verify current licensing, service areas, and costs
• Less established track record than longer-operating agencies

Questions to Ask

• “What counties do you serve?”
• “Are you currently licensed by Arizona DCS?”
• “What are your fees for [specific adoption type]?”

Step-by-Step: The Arizona Adoption Process

Understanding the adoption timeline helps set realistic expectations as you begin your journey.

Step 1: Research and Select an Agency

Use the comparison information in this guide to identify agencies matching your preferences. Consider:

• Type of adoption you’re pursuing (foster, infant, international)
• Geographic location and county coverage
• Cost alignment with your budget
• Agency values and approach

Step 2: Attend Agency Orientation

Most agencies offer information sessions for prospective parents. These sessions cover:

• Agency philosophy and services
• Adoption process timeline
• Requirements and qualifications
• Cost breakdowns and payment options
• Questions and answers

Many agencies like Christian Family Care regularly schedule these orientations.

Step 3: Begin Home Study and Certification

The home study is required for all Arizona adoptions. It includes:

• Background checks (criminal, child abuse registry)
• Medical examinations
• Financial documentation
• Home safety inspection
• Multiple interviews with social worker
• References from family and friends

Home studies typically take 3-6 months to complete and cost between $1,500 and $3,000.

Step 4: Approval and Matching

Once approved, your family profile becomes active:

• Private adoption: Birth parents review profiles and select adoptive families
• Foster adoption: DCS or agency identifies potential matches based on your preferences and qualifications
• International adoption: You’re matched according to country-specific processes

Matching timelines vary significantly. Private infant adoption averages 1-2 years, while foster adoption matching may happen within months.

Step 5: Consent and Placement

In Arizona, birth parent consent cannot be given until at least 72 hours after birth. Once legal consent is properly obtained, the child is placed in your home.

This begins the supervision period where your agency monitors placement progress.

Step 6: Post-Placement Supervision

Arizona law requires post-placement supervision before finalization. Your agency conducts:

• Home visits at 30 days and subsequently
• Progress reports
• Assessment of adjustment and bonding
• Support services as needed

This period typically lasts 3-6 months but varies by case.

Step 7: Finalization in Superior Court

After successful supervision, you petition the Arizona Superior Court for adoption finalization. This legal hearing:

• Terminates birth parent rights (if not already terminated)
• Grants full parental rights to adoptive parents
• Issues new birth certificate
• Makes the adoption permanent and irrevocable

Most families finalize 6-12 months after placement.

Step 8: Post-Adoption Support

Quality agencies continue supporting families after finalization through:

• Counseling and therapy referrals
• Support groups for adoptive families
• Educational resources
• Crisis intervention if needed
• Assistance accessing ongoing subsidies (special needs adoptions)

Arizona Adoption Legal Requirements

Understanding Arizona’s legal framework ensures your adoption proceeds smoothly.

Eligibility Requirements

Arizona adoptive parents must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Complete a home study by a licensed agency
• Pass criminal background checks
• Demonstrate financial stability (not necessarily wealth)
• Provide a safe home environment
• Complete pre-adoption education

Arizona allows adoption by:

• Married couples (any gender)
• Single individuals
• Unmarried cohabiting partners

Birth Parent Rights and Consent

Arizona law protects birth parents while ensuring appropriate adoptions:

• Consent cannot be given until 72 hours after birth
• Consent must be in writing, witnessed, and notarized
• Birth parents may revoke consent within specific timeframes depending on circumstances
• Father’s rights must be addressed through proper legal notification

Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC)

If you’re adopting a child born in another state, or if you live in Arizona but the child is born elsewhere, ICPC governs the process. This requires:

• Approval from both states
• Additional paperwork and waiting periods
• Compliance with both states’ laws

Your agency should have ICPC experience and handle this process.

Adoption Subsidies and Tax Benefits

Arizona families adopting children with special needs may qualify for:

• Monthly adoption subsidy payments
• Medical coverage through AHCCCS
• Non-recurring adoption expense reimbursement (up to $2,000)
• Federal adoption tax credit (currently up to $15,950)

Your agency can help you navigate subsidy applications.

Financial Considerations: Understanding Adoption Costs

Adoption costs vary dramatically based on pathway and agency.

Foster Care Adoption Costs

• Agency fees: $0 to minimal
• Home study: Often covered by state
• Legal fees: $500-$1,500
• Total typical cost: $0-$3,000

State subsidies often reimburse even these minimal costs for special needs adoptions.

Private Domestic Infant Adoption Costs

• Agency fees: $15,000-$40,000
• Home study: $1,500-$3,000
• Legal fees: $2,500-$5,000
• Birth mother expenses: $1,000-$10,000
• Total typical cost: $25,000-$50,000

Costs vary based on agency, services, and situation complexity.

International Adoption Costs

• Agency fees: $15,000-$30,000
• Country fees: $5,000-$15,000
• Travel expenses: $5,000-$15,000
• Legal and immigration: $2,000-$5,000
• Total typical cost: $35,000-$60,000

International adoption requires Hague-accredited agencies and has declined significantly in recent years due to changing international policies.

Financial Planning Tips

• Request complete written fee schedules before committing
• Ask about payment plans and financing options
• Research federal adoption tax credit eligibility
• Investigate employer adoption benefits
• Consider adoption grants from nonprofit organizations
• Budget for unexpected expenses (failed matches, travel changes)

Important Risks and Disclaimers

Every prospective parent should understand potential challenges and limitations.

Cost Changes

Agency fees, legal costs, and birth parent expenses can change. Always request current fee schedules in writing and understand which costs are fixed versus variable.

Licensing and Coverage Verification

Agency licensing status can change. Verify current DCS licensing before beginning services. Confirm the agency operates in your county or is willing to serve your location.

No Guaranteed Matches

Approval for adoption does not guarantee a match. Wait times depend on multiple factors including:

• Birth parent choices
• Child characteristics and needs
• Geographic location
• Your preferences and flexibility

Failed Matches and Disruptions

Birth parents may change their minds before or shortly after placement (within legal timeframes). Adoption disruptions, while rare, do occur. Understand your agency’s policies regarding:

• Fee refunds or credits for failed matches
• Emotional support services
• Timeline to rematch

Consent Issues

Improperly obtained consent or coercion can create legal problems. Work only with licensed agencies following proper legal procedures. Never work with unlicensed “facilitators.”

Legal Advice Disclaimer

This article provides educational information only and does not constitute legal advice. Arizona adoption law is complex and case-specific. Always consult an experienced Arizona adoption attorney before:

• Signing agency contracts
• Making financial commitments
• Accepting a placement
• Finalizing an adoption

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does adoption take in Arizona?

Timelines vary by adoption type:

• Foster care adoption: 6-18 months from application to placement
• Private infant adoption: 1-3 years from application to placement
• International adoption: 2-4 years depending on country

Add 6-12 months for post-placement supervision and finalization.

Can single people adopt in Arizona?

Yes. Arizona law permits adoption by single individuals who meet all other requirements including home study approval, background checks, and financial stability.

What are the age requirements for adoptive parents in Arizona?

Adoptive parents must be at least 18 years old. There is no maximum age limit, though agencies may have their own preferences based on child’s age and needs.

Do I need a lawyer for adoption in Arizona?

Yes, for finalization. While agencies handle much of the process, you’ll need an attorney to file finalization petitions in Arizona Superior Court. Some agencies include legal services in their fees; others require you to hire independent counsel.

How much does foster care adoption cost in Arizona?

Foster care adoption costs are minimal or fully covered. Families may pay only basic legal filing fees ($500-$1,500). Many expenses are reimbursed through non-recurring adoption expense payments.

What if I want to adopt a newborn in Arizona?

Private domestic infant adoption is available through licensed agencies like American Adoptions, Christian Family Care, Catholic Charities, and others. Expect costs of $25,000-$50,000 and wait times of 1-2 years on average.

Can I choose the child I adopt?

In foster care adoption, families often review profiles of waiting children and express interest. Heart Gallery of Arizona showcases children available for adoption. In private infant adoption, birth parents typically choose adoptive families.

What is an open adoption?

Open adoption involves ongoing contact between birth parents and adoptive families. Contact levels vary from periodic photo updates to regular visits. Many Arizona agencies facilitate open adoptions and help families establish comfortable boundaries.

Are adoption subsidies available in Arizona?

Yes, for children adopted from foster care who meet special needs criteria. Subsidies may include monthly payments, medical coverage, and reimbursement of adoption expenses. Your agency can help determine eligibility.

What if I live in rural Arizona?

Several agencies serve rural areas including Christian Family Care and AASK. Some agencies conduct home studies statewide. Verify county coverage when selecting an agency.

Taking Your Next Steps

Adoption is a profound journey requiring careful research, emotional preparation, and practical planning. This guide provides a foundation for understanding Arizona’s adoption landscape, but your personal journey begins with action.

Recommended Next Steps:

Research Thoroughly: Review each agency’s website, read their materials, and understand their philosophy and services.

Attend Information Sessions: Most agencies offer free orientations. Attend multiple sessions to compare approaches.

Request Complete Fee Schedules: Don’t proceed without understanding all costs in writing.

Verify Licensing: Check current DCS licensing status at dcs.az.gov/foster.

Consult an Adoption Attorney: Get legal guidance before signing contracts or making commitments.

Connect with Adoptive Families: Join Arizona adoption support groups to learn from others’ experiences.

Prepare Emotionally and Financially: Adoption requires both emotional resilience and financial readiness.

Official Arizona Adoption Resources

• Arizona Department of Child Safety Foster/Adoption: dcs.az.gov/foster
• Arizona Supreme Court Adoption Information: Check court website for legal procedures
• North American Council on Adoptable Children: State-specific adoption subsidy information

Conclusion: Your Arizona Adoption Journey

Choosing among Arizona’s adoption agencies is deeply personal. The “best” agency for your family depends on your specific circumstances, preferences, and the type of adoption you’re pursuing.

Foster care adoption through agencies like AASK offers low costs and the opportunity to provide permanent homes to waiting children. Private infant adoption through agencies like American Adoptions or Christian Family Care allows you to welcome a newborn. International adoption through Hague-accredited agencies like Building Arizona Families expands your options globally.

Whatever path you choose, work only with properly licensed agencies, verify all information independently, and seek legal counsel before making commitments.

Thousands of Arizona families have successfully navigated adoption to build their families. With careful research, proper support, and patience, you can too.

This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an experienced Arizona adoption attorney and verify all agency information independently before proceeding with adoption services.

About the Author

Sarah Klein, JD, is a former family law attorney with over a decade of courtroom and mediation experience. She has represented clients in divorce, custody cases, adoption, Alimony, and domestic violence cases across multiple U.S. jurisdictions.
At All About Lawyer, Sarah now uses her deep legal background to create easy-to-understand guides that help families navigate the legal system with clarity and confidence.
Every article is based on her real-world legal experience and reviewed to reflect current laws.
Read more about Sarah