Yes, you can! If you live outside the state but are exploring how to adopt a child in Illinois through the foster care system, you are still eligible – provided you meet certain requirements.
To participate in Illinois foster care adoption as an out-of-state resident, you must:
- Be a licensed foster parent in your home state
- Have a current and approved home study/assessment
Once you meet these criteria, you can register with the Adoption Listing Service of Illinois at Let It Be Us. Our team will review your information and determine if you may be a good fit for one of the waiting children featured in the Heart Gallery of Illinois.
Whether you’re hoping to foster to adopt in Illinois, are researching how to adopt a baby in Illinois for free, or simply want to learn more about Illinois adoption, Let It Be Us is here to guide you through every step no matter where you live.
Registration with the Adoption Listing Service of Illinois with Let It Be Us is simple and includes two key steps:
Step 1: Complete and Submit the Family Registration Form
- Fill out the Family Registration Form HERE
- Once you receive an email with your completed form, please:
- Sign the form
- Have your partner sign (if applicable)
- Have your licensing worker sign
- Email the signed form to:
adoptionlistingservice@letitbeus.org
Or mail to:
Let It Be Us
145 West Main Street
Barrington, Illinois 60010
Step 2: Submit Your Home Study/Assessment
- Please send a copy of your home study or foster home assessment confirming your status as a licensed foster parent.
- Email to:
adoptionlistingservice@letitbeus.org
Or mail to:
Let It Be Us
145 West Main Street
Barrington, Illinois 60010
Note: If your home study was completed over a year ago, please also include your most recent licensing records (e.g., your latest monitoring visit report).
By registering with the Adoption Listing Service of Illinois at Let It Be Us, you’ll gain access to matching services that connect you with waiting children in the foster care system. Whether you’re interested in adopting a child in Illinois or researching how to adopt a baby in Illinois for free, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
NOTE: if it was finalized over a year ago, please also send along licensing records from within the past year. (ex. Most recent licensing monitoring records.)