How to Search for Adoption Records in California
- 1). Determine whether or not the adoption was finalized within the state of California. California only records information on adoptions finalized within the state, either adoptions done completely within the state or adoptions where the adopting parents resided within the state.
- 2). Determine if you are eligible to access to the adoption records. The state of California can only divulge records to people who meet certain legal eligibility requirements, including the adoptee (person who was adopted) and the birth parents. If you meet the legal requirements you can request a search for information about the adoption and contact information. Siblings of the adoptee may request a search for information regarding contact information.
- 3). If you are the adoptee you can contact the agency that facilitated the adoption. Addresses and phone numbers are available at the CDSS website. Alternately, you can contact the CDSS in writing, not email, regarding the adoption. The letter must include your full name, date of birth and the full names of the adopting parent(s). It must also be notarized by a public notary. Mail the letter to:
California Department of Social Services
Adoptions Support Unit
744 P Street, MS 8-12-31
Sacramento, CA 95814 - 4). If you are the birth parent seeking information about the adoption, you can also contact the agency that facilitated the adoption. Or you can contact the CDSS in writing requesting information. The letter must include your legal name at the time of the adoption, the child's name (if the child had been given a name at that point in time) and the child's birth date. This letter must be notarized. Send it to the previously listed address.
- 5). If you are a sibling you must complete form 904 and return it to the agency that conducted the adoption or to the CDSS. You can download the form at the CDSS's website. It is also available from the CDSS by phone at 916-651-8088, or you can contact the department in writing.
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