Can I Adopt in Texas if I'm Single?

 Posted on February 09, 2026 in Adoption

Many single people dream of becoming parents through adoption. The good news is that Texas allows single people to adopt children. You do not need to be married to provide a loving home to a child who needs one.

If you are single and considering adoption in 2026, a Denton adoption attorney can guide you through the legal steps and help you build the strongest case.

What Requirements Must Single Parents Meet to Adopt in Texas?

Texas Family Code Section 162.001 states that any adult may petition to adopt, but they have to meet certain requirements. You must: 

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Complete a home study. This is an evaluation of your home, finances, background, and whether you can be a good parent. A licensed social worker will visit your home, interview you, and review your financial documents and background checks
• Show financial stability. You do not need to be wealthy, but you must show that you can afford to provide for a child's basic needs.
• Pass criminal background checks and child abuse registry checks.
• Show that you have a support system. You do not need a spouse, but being a parent is difficult. Courts want to see that you have family members, friends, or community resources who can help you.

What Types of Adoption Are Available to Single People in Texas?

Foster Care Adoption

This is often the easiest option for single parents. Thousands of children in Texas foster care need permanent homes, and the state encourages qualified single adults to adopt them. Foster care adoption is much less expensive than private adoption, and many children adopted from foster care qualify for ongoing financial assistance.

Private Domestic Adoption

Single people can work with private adoption agencies or adoption attorneys to adopt newborns or young children. American Adoption points out that there may actually be many advantages to single-parent adoption. However, some birth mothers specifically request married couples as adoptive parents, which means you may wait longer to be matched with a child. Also, bear in mind that not all private agencies work with single parents.

International adoption

Single people can adopt children from other countries, but it has become more complicated in recent years. Some countries do not allow single people to adopt their children. Others have specific requirements about age, income, or how long you have been single. International adoption is also expensive and time-consuming.

How Can I Strengthen My Adoption Application as a Single Parent?

Demonstrate Financial Stability 

Maintain steady employment, build savings, and create a realistic budget. If possible, cut down on debt before beginning the adoption process.

Financial review is often more intense for single parents since you will be supporting a child on one income. You may need to show detailed budgets, proof of employment stability, and your savings.

Build and Document Your Support Network 

Balancing work and childcare can be challenging. During your home study, the social worker will want to understand your childcare plans and how you will manage work responsibilities with a child.

Make a list of family members, friends, and community resources who can help you with childcare and emergencies. Ask some of these people to write letters of support for your adoption application.

Consider Taking Parenting Classes or Volunteering with Children

This shows your commitment to learning about child development and parenting skills.

Be Flexible About the Age and Needs of the Child You Will Accept

Single parents who are open to adopting older children, sibling groups, or children with special needs often have more opportunities and shorter wait times.

Call a Denton County, TX Adoption Lawyer Today

Adopting as a single parent in Texas is possible, but navigating the legal process requires knowledge and preparation. At The Law Office of Linda Risinger, our mother-daughter attorney team brings over 30 years of family law experience to every case. We are local to Texas and understand the challenges you face when adopting here.

We focus on achieving the best results while keeping cost-effectiveness in mind. We know that adoption can be expensive, and we work efficiently to help you complete the process without unnecessary delays or costs. Contact The Law Office of Linda Risinger at 972-294-6533 today for a free consultation with a Denton adoption lawyer.