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Surrogate Compensation: What You Should Know

There are many factors that go into surrogate compensation, so while we can’t tell you an exact figure, we can give you a general idea of what to expect. These are the different categories that make up surrogate compensation.

Compensation 

It is extremely important to work with an ART (Assisted Reproduction Technology) certified surrogacy lawyer and/or surrogacy agency in order to protect your interests as a surrogate. These professionals will help ensure that you receive fair compensation and that all your expenses are covered throughout your journey. 

Several items are taken into consideration to determine your base compensation. The policies of the surrogacy agency, if you are working with one, may set the amount. The intended parents’ budget is another factor that influences this amount. Your own experience with surrogacy (first time surrogate vs. multiple) is another factor in determining a base compensation.

The average base pay in the United States for a first time surrogate is between $25,000 and $30,000. This is typically paid in monthly installments throughout the surrogacy process. Compensation typically begins after a pregnancy is confirmed by the attending physician.

Surrogacy-Related Expenses

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The intended parents will pay for all of the expenses you incur as a surrogate. In addition to the base compensation, which we already covered, expenses such as medical and legal costs will be paid for you as a surrogate. Surrogacy related costs that can be covered by intended parents include:

  • Maternity clothes
  • Travel for doctor’s appointments
  • Childcare for your own children when you go to appointments
  • Meals while travelling
  • Prenatal vitamins and other health supplies
  • Medical bills and insurance premiums if necessary
  • Legal expenses
  • Other agreed to expenses

If you or your spouse/partner miss work for surrogacy appointments, you can receive additional compensation for lost wages. Again, an experienced surrogacy attorney or agency will ensure that you are reimbursed appropriately for your expenses and time missed from work related to the surrogacy.

Other Factors

Women who have experience with surrogacy and have carried a healthy surrogate pregnancy tend to be paid more than first time surrogates. The intended parents’ budget also influences the amount of pay. Working with a surrogacy professional will give you the most accurate estimate of how much you will be paid to be a surrogate. 

To get a better idea of how to become surrogate or to view some of the compensation opportunities available, visit these surrogacy agency sites for additional information:

Surrogacy is a beautiful way to help someone’s dreams of parenthood come true. It can also be a great way for you to achieve some of your own goals, such as paying for school or a house. Working with surrogate professionals, like us, will help ensure that you are compensated fairly and in a timely manner for the gift you are growing.