The Complete Guide to

Becoming a surrogate can be one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences of a person’s life.

At Los Angeles Surrogacy, a leading surrogacy agency, surrogates help both individuals and couples achieve their dreams of parenthood. Along with the incredible joy of facilitating one of the most important journeys of a new parent’s life, surrogates are also financially compensated. In this article we will address the intricate factors of the compensation process, diving into the amount and frequency of payment, as well as taxation, expense coverage, and the timeline of receiving payments.

See If You Qualify

How Much Compensation Will I receive?

The answer may vary, and most heavily depends on the arrangement made with the intended parents the surrogate is matched with.

Other factors may include if the surrogate carries twins, or if they require a C-section. At Los Angeles Surrogacy, we stress the importance of open communication when negotiating payment. It is quite common for first-time surrogates to receive competitive compensation packages. Please contact us for further details.

How Soon and How Often Do I Get Paid

Compensation is typically paid in installments at prearranged milestones throughout the pregnancy journey.

At Los Angeles Surrogacy, we adhere to a structured financial plan designed to support our surrogates every step of the way. This plan includes an initial payment upon contract signing, followed by multiple installments throughout fertility treatments and pregnancy. We also cover expenses like travel and maternity clothing, and surrogates receive a monthly allowance. The final payment is made after the birth of the child.

How Are Expenses Covered during Surrogacy?

Los Angeles Surrogacy recognizes the various expenses that arise throughout a surrogate’s journey.

Medical treatments, travel tickets, and maternity clothes are only a few of the costs that may accumulate. To ensure that surrogates are not financially burdened by the generous gift they are giving to their intended parents, the intended parents most often directly cover these costs. This is not subtracted from the base compensation, but in addition to it.

In conclusion, there are many factors that contribute to the building of a surrogate’s compensation package. Los Angeles Surrogacy guarantees financial stability for the well-being of all of our surrogates. We also emphasize the importance of setting clear agreements with the intended parents so each party involved has a full understanding of the financial aspects of surrogacy. With the extensive support provided by LAS staff, surrogates can begin their journey with confidence and security.

My time has come to an end, I feel as if my journey was a complete blessing.

Lindsey Guerrera

Surrogate

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Surrogacy Baby Biologically Related to a Surrogate Mother?

No. Via gestational surrogacy, the egg of the intended mother (or a donor) is combined with the sperm of the intended father (or a donor) and transferred to the surrogate mother for growth during pregnancy. Therefore, the surrogate has no genetic link to the child, and the baby will only resemble the intended parents (or donors of the egg and sperm). There is no transfer of DNA during pregnancy.

How Much Money Does a Surrogate Make?

Surrogate compensation is not a “one size fits all” paycheck. It will vary greatly depending on location, prior experience as a surrogate (first-time surrogates may have an advantage sometimes), and other personal factors such as carrying multiples (twins or more), necessity of a C-section, coverage of insurance costs, medical fees (IVF appointment and checkups), possible travel fees, coverage of maternity clothing, legal fees, potential lost income (when working is no more an option near the third trimester), etc.

Does a Surrogate Mother Breastfeed the Baby?

A surrogate mother usually does not breastfeed, but there are exceptions.

Emotional & legal boundaries – Breastfeeding may create an unintended emotional bond that the surrogacy contract usually intends to prevent.
Intended parents’ role – Many intended mothers prefer to induce lactation or use donor milk.
Colostrum feeding – In a number of cases, a surrogate will provide colostrum for early immunity.
Pumping breast milk – In a number of cases, surrogates agree to pump milk for the baby.

How Many Times Can I Be A Surrogate?

A woman can typically be a surrogate 3-5 times, depending on medical guidelines and personal health. Fertility specialists often recommend a maximum of 5 pregnancies (including her own) to minimize health risks. Surrogacy agencies and fertility clinics also impose their own limits based on medical guidelines.

What Disqualifies You From Being A Surrogate?

Common disqualifications for surrogacy:

Medical

Age outside of 21-40 range
Previous pregnancy complications
Over 5 prior pregnancies or 3 C-sections
BMI over 32
Untreated or chronic health conditions (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases…)

Lifestyle

Smoking and drug/alcohol use
Criminal record or unstable living situation
Absence of a support system

Legal

Living in a state where surrogacy is illegal
Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

What Questions Should I Ask?

10 key questions to ask before committing to becoming a surrogate and when meeting with intended parents:

Before committing:

What are the medical requirements and risks for surrogacy?
What compensation, benefits, and reimbursements are provided?
What legal protections exist for surrogates in my state?
Will I need to travel for medical procedures or delivery?
How does health insurance coverage work for surrogacy?

When meeting with intended parents:

What level of communication and involvement do you expect during pregnancy?
What are your views on medical decisions (C-section, selective reduction, termination, etc.)?
What are your expectations regarding my lifestyle, diet, and medical care?
Will you be involved in the birth and post-delivery care?
How will we handle unexpected medical or personal issues during the process?

Your surrogacy agency will advise you in much more details to ensure you are making your choice in full awareness of what it entails.

Is Becoming a Surrogate Risky?

Yes, becoming a surrogate carries risks, both medically and emotionally. This is not a light matter. You have to consider several aspects, including these:

Medical risks:

Pregnancy Complications.
Multiple Births
C-Section Risks
Hormonal Side Effects
Long-Term Health Effects

Emotional & psychological risks:

Emotional bonding with the baby
Conflicts with intended parents
Postpartum depression

Legal & financial risks

Deficient legal protections
Insurance complications

Your surrogacy agency will strive to give you a detailed account of the implications of becoming a surrogate before you decide to embark on this journey, and will work to set up the best possible contractual and financial conditions to ensure you are not subjected to hardship during and immediately after your pregnancy.