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Adoption Benefit

The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) administers the State Employee Adoption Benefit Program, which provides a one-time lump sum benefit to eligible individuals who adopt through Florida’s child welfare system.

Eligible applicants may receive:

  • Up to $25,000 for the adoption of a difficult-to-place child
  • Up to $10,000 for the adoption of a non-difficult-to-place child

Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements to receive the benefit.

Eligibility

Section 409.1664, Florida Statutes (F.S.), defines eligible applicants and includes individuals employed full-time or part-time by:

  • State agencies (Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches, including the Department of Lottery)
  • State universities and community colleges
  • School districts, charter schools, and Florida Virtual School
  • Water Management Districts
  • The Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (instructional personnel)

The Legislature has also expanded eligibility to include:

  • Veterans and service members
  • Law enforcement officers as defined in s. 943.10(1), F.S.
  • OPS employees who have been employed by a state agency for at least one year

Additional Resources

Contact Information

For additional information regarding the State Employee Adoption Benefit Program, please contact the Adoption Information Center via phone (1.800.96.ADOPT) or email. You may also reach out to the UWF Human Resources Benefits Team for assistance via phone at 850.474.2694.