Article: State agencies, as well as a number of private agencies, typically have classes you must complete to learn about adoption and the needs of adoptive children.  If you're adopting through a state agency, you may have to qualify as both a foster parent and an adoptive parent – even if you're not planning on fostering a child. When adopting through a private agency, you may have to pay a fee to attend parenting classes. During the training sessions, you'll go through the adoption application. If you have any questions about the process or any of the items on the application, ask a staff member for clarification. You must provide thorough personal and financial information to adopt a child. You'll need to attach documentation to your application that supports the statements you made in the application itself.  You'll have to verify your employment and income, and the adoption agency may contact your employer. You also must provide identification that proves you meet the minimum age for adoptive parents in your state. Ask your employer, family members, or other colleagues or community members to write reference letters for you to support your application to adopt. Adoption agencies require you to submit an application, either in person or online, along with all required documents and letters of reference. Before you submit your application, double-check and make sure you have answered all questions honestly and completely. If you have any issues that you think might negatively impact the agency's decision, you might want to write a statement explaining the situation and how you've changed. For example, if you've ever been arrested or convicted of a crime, you want to address this up front on your application and discuss it openly. Once your application is accepted by the agency, you'll be assigned a caseworker who will be your point person throughout the adoption process. They will describe to you the next steps of the process. You need to maintain a good relationship with your caseworker. They are on your side, and want to help you adopt a child. They can answer any questions you have, as well as give you tips and advice. In most states, you must pass a criminal and employment background check before you will be finally approved to adopt. Typically you must request your criminal history from the FBI and the state law enforcement agencies of any states where you've lived.  You also must show that you've never been listed on any child abuse, domestic violence, or sex offender registries. If you have friends or family members who either live in your home or will be frequent visitors, they also may be required to submit criminal histories.

What is a summary?
Attend pre-service orientation and training. Get your documents together. Turn in your application. Meet with your caseworker. Complete all background checks.