Understand Texas laws concerning placing your child for adoption in Texas.
Let’s consider some of the most important points you should be aware of. Don’t hesitate to call us or an adoption attorney if you have more questions.
In Texas, like all states, you are not allowed to be paid for your baby. BUT you do have the right to receive financial help during your pregnancy. This isn’t payment for your baby – it’s support to help you through your pregnancy. The law allows for:
All these expenses must be considered “reasonable and necessary.” This means you can’t receive money for things like recreation, buying a car, or supporting other family members (except your minor children who live with you).
We want you to be aware of the waiting period in Texas adoption. This is one of the most important legal protections for birth mothers in Texas.
You cannot sign your consent for adoption until 48 hours after your baby is born. This gives you time to recover from birth and think about your decision. Once you sign the consent, it’s usually permanent under Texas law, so it’s crucial to be confident about your choice.
Texas has what’s called the Baby Moses Law. This law allows you to safely and anonymously surrender your baby (if they’re younger than 60 days old) at designated safe places like hospitals, fire stations, or emergency medical stations. While this isn’t the same as planned adoption, it’s important to know this option exists if you’re in crisis.
At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we will help you create an open adoption agreement. This is created if you want to stay in contact with your child after adoption.
You can click on the navigation bar on the side to watch videos or read about the types of adoptions are available.
Remember that in Texas, you have the right to:
Licensed adoption agencies in Texas must follow strict rules about how they can help you. They’re required to: