Adoption laws in every state, including Texas,  require prospective adoptive parents to complete a pre-placement study or evaluation usually called a home study. This report consists of interviews, and various forms of paperwork, background checks, and a home visit. It can also include education and training.

A home study will gather information about you and your  family and prepare you for adoption, and evaluate your stability as an adoptive home. No matter whom you are working with, a positive pre-adoptive home screening, also known as a home study is required for any domestic or international adoption.

If you are a Texas resident or if you are adopting a child born in Texas, then this evaluation must comply with licensing requirements established by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS). This state agency regulates child-placing agencies in Texas.

The home screening will explore the most personal aspects of your life and may seem intrusive at times. We strive to remain sensitive and respectful throughout the process. Remember the ultimate goal is to ensure that children are being placed in a nurturing and safe environment and state  law requires specific inquires.

Texas requires the verification of certain aspects of any adoption home study. This can include age, income, citizenship, marriages, divorces, and the safety of your home. Keeping a checklist of all these items during the home study process is important you can stay organized.

We will provide a list of documents and checklists needed in order to prepare you and your family for the home visit. These include but are not limited to:

.    
Birth Certificate or Passport
.    
Verification of Income
.    
Verification of Health and Life Insurance
.    
Marriage License
.    
Divorce Decree
.    
Criminal Background Checks
.    
Child Abuse and Neglect Checks
.    
References