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Adopting a Child

For many, adopting a child is a wonderful way to expand their family. Whether you are considering a domestic or international adoption, we have a number of benefits to help you through the process.

Where to Start

By contacting GW's work-life partner, LifeCare, you will be connected with a work-life consultant who can help you figure out how to get started in the adoption process. They can also help put you in contact with adoption agencies to meet your specific needs.

The LifeCare website also has a large library of articles, webinars, videos, and links to learn more about the adoption process.

Getting Legal Advice

Both domestic and international adoptions can require a lot of legal paperwork. Employees who have enrolled in GW's Legal Resources benefit have access to a network of lawyers who can help you understand the legal implications of adopting.

Not enrolled in Legal Resources? Contact LifeCare to get referrals and discounts to legal professionals in your area. While talking with your LifeCare consultant, ask them about LifeCare's financial services to help you budget for your future child's needs.

Getting Emotional Support

Adopting a child can be mentally and emotionally challenging - both the adoption process and in welcoming a new child into your home. Depending on the age of your child, it may also mean a significant emotional adjustment for him or her.

As a GW employee, you and members of your household can take advantage of GW's employee assistance program 24/7 to identify and address concerns, develop an action plan, and receive referrals. As part of this benefit, you and your household members can also take advantage of 5 in-person counseling sessions per issue. This can be a valuable benefit for any member of your household and it's completely free.

Adding Your Child to Your Health Insurance

You have 30 days from the date of adoption to add your child to your health insurance. Review GW's Benefits Administration site to learn more about Qualifying Life Events and how to make the necessary changes to your health insurance and other benefits.

This might also be a good time to also consider opening a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) if you will be paying for child care. An FSA can allow you to pay for your child care costs pre-tax, saving you money.

Prepare for Your Time Away From Work

Eligible GW employees can take up to 16 work weeks of unpaid family leave for placement of a child for adoption or foster care under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Applying for FMLA is important, not only because it is required of you as an employee, but because it protects your job while you are out on leave. Even if you are planning to use sick or vacation time during your leave period, you must still apply for FMLA. While university policy requires 30 days advanced notice for FMLA leave, the earlier you plan the better prepared you will be.

Consider Your Child Care Options

Finding the right child care can be a major source of concern for new and expecting parents. GW can support you in identifying child care options that meet your needs through our partnership with LifeCare. By calling LifeCare, you will be connected with a child care consultant who will discuss your specific child care needs and preferences and then identify providers with openings in your area. This is a free service to you as a GW employee.

Free Gifts and Special Discounts

We know having a child can be expensive. So we have put together a package of gifts and discounts just for you available through our LifeCare program.

Free Child Safety Kit - If you have a child under age three, the Child Safety Kit can help you protect him or her from today's most prevalent dangers.

Shopping discounts - Through LifeCare's LifeMart Discounts you have access to hundreds of discounts on apparel, entertainment, travel, home, etc. Stocking up on baby supplies? Trying to find a hotel discount for your visiting family? Are you and your partner planning a much needed night out? Save on these items and more.

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