If you adopt a child, you may deduct the expenses incurred in the adoption. You may claim legal and medical expenses incurred up to a maximum of $3,000 per adoption. Travel expenses don't qualify. If the expenses are incurred in two or more years, deduct the costs in the year paid until the $3,000 limit has been met. The expenses related to an unsuccessful attempt to adopt aren't deductible. If expenses were claimed in a year prior to such a determination, file an amended return to add back any deduction claimed for the unsuccessful attempt.