Washington Adoption Laws

Access to Adoption Records

Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:

Adoptive parents, adopted adults, and birth parents may obtain non-identifying information. The age of adulthood in WA is 18.

Obtaining Identifying Information:

Identifying information is provided through a confidential intermediary system. Adopted adults also can file a form for disclosure or nondisclosure with the Department of Health.

Using a Confidential Intermediary:

The following persons may use the confidential intermediary service:

• adopted adults age 21 or older, or adoptees under age 21 with permission of adoptive parents,
  
• birth parents,
  
• birth siblings, and
  
• birth grandparents.

Obtaining an Original Birth Certificate:

Birth parents can receive a photocopy of the original birth certificate for a fee of $15.00 (see Tina Musso's Washington State Informtion for details). An adopted adult age 18 or older can receive the birth certificate if

• the adoption was finalized after October 1, 1993, and
  
• each birth parent has not filed an affidavit of non-disclosure.

Credits: Child Welfare Information Gateway (http://www.childwelfare.gov)