Will It Cost Me to Put a Baby Up for Adoption in Ohio?

Will It Cost Me to Put a Baby Up for Adoption in Ohio?

Unexpected Pregnancy in Ohio
We have some suggested resources for you.

I’m PregnantI want to Adopt

Adoption Is Always Free for You

Adoption is free for birth mothers. There is no reason for a woman to put any money into placing her baby for adoption.

All the services provided to you are free– housing, food, transportation, and counseling. You’ll never be asked to pay for anything related to your adoption plan.

We Help With Living Expenses

Being pregnant can be hard, especially if money is tight. Ohio law allows us to help pay for expenses during your pregnancy and for 60 days after your baby is born.

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We can help with:

Rent or Housing

  • Your current rent or mortgage payments
  • A safe place to stay if you need to move
  • Our Utah apartments if you want privacy and support during pregnancy

Utilities

  • Electric, gas, and water bills
  • Help getting utilities turned back on if they've been shut off

Food and Groceries

  • Gift cards for grocery stores
  • Food delivery if needed
  • Prenatal vitamins and healthy food

Transportation

  • Gas cards if you have a car
  • Bus passes or rideshare assistance
  • Rides to doctor appointments, counseling, or legal meetings

Maternity Clothing and Personal Care

  • Clothes that fit as your body changes
  • Toiletries and personal hygiene items
  • Anything you need to stay comfortable

Total Assistance

Ohio law allows up to $3,000 in living expenses. Payments go directly to your landlord, utility company, or service provider — never cash in hand — keeping everything legal and protecting you.

Here's What Hunter from Columbus Shared With Us:

"I felt so scared. I knew I couldn't take care of a baby. I was barely making rent, and I didn't have health insurance. I didn't want an abortion, but I couldn't imagine raising a baby alone. I also didn't want to never see my baby again—I needed to know she was safe.

I called Heart to Heart, and for the first time, someone actually listened to me. They told me adoption was completely free and that I could choose a family and stay in touch. They helped with my rent, my medical bills, and even groceries.

When I found out I could choose an open adoption where I'd get photos and updates, I felt like I could breathe again. This wasn't about giving up—it was about giving my baby the life I wanted for her while staying connected. And it didn't cost me a penny."

Hunter
HunterBirth Mother · Columbus, OH

We're Here Every Step of the Way

No woman should have to face pregnancy alone or worry about how to pay for help.

At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we'll take care of your needs so you can focus on what's most important — your health, your heart, and your baby.

What If I Decide to Parent Instead?

If you change your mind and decide to parent your baby, that's okay. We'll support your decision and help you access resources in Ohio:

  • WIC (Women, Infants, and Children nutrition program)
  • Medicaid for continued healthcare coverage
  • Parenting classes and support groups
  • Childcare assistance programs
  • Housing and utility assistance

You're not locked into adoption. We're here to help you make the best decision for you and your baby—whatever that is.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help you explore your options, without pressure or judgment.

Talk With Someone Text Us Anytime

Medical and Clinical Content By

Allie James

Senior Content Editor · Heart to Heart Adoptions

Last Reviewed: February 20, 2026