When people think of surrogacy, they often have many questions. What is surrogacy, exactly? How does a surrogate mother become pregnant? Why do women become surrogate mothers? (To get the answers to these questions, just follow the links!)
One of the most common questions we hear is: Can I get paid to be a surrogate? The short answer is … yes! As a surrogate, you give up a great deal of your time and energy to help an individual or couple grow their family, and in most of the U.S. (as well as several other countries), you can be compensated for it.
Read on to find out how you can get paid to be a surrogate, and how much money you can expect to earn.
Where can you get paid to be a surrogate?
In the U.S., gestational surrogacy agreements aren’t legal in all 50 states. Each state determines the legality of surrogacy agreements, and laws vary considerably from one state to the next.
“Surrogacy-friendly” states have statutes recognizing and permitting surrogacy, or they have no law prohibiting surrogacy. In these states, compensated and uncompensated surrogacy agreement is allowed.
The following states are considered surrogacy-friendly:
- California
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Maine
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Washington
The following states allow surrogacy, but the legal protection for surrogates and intended parents is a little more uncertain:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- New Mexico
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
The only state considered “non-surrogacy friendly” is Michigan. Michigan laws prohibit paid surrogacy and surrogacy contracts are void and unenforceable. Altruistic (or uncompensated) surrogacy, however, is legal in Michigan.
Why is California considered one of the best places to be a surrogate?
California, where Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is based, has more statutory law and case law on surrogacy than almost any other state.
Intended parents are able to establish their legal parental rights before the birth of their child without having to complete adoption proceedings. Also, surrogacy is available to individuals regardless of their marital status, orientation, or gender identity.
How much do surrogate mothers get paid?
Compensation for surrogates varies by surrogacy agency and depends on the surrogate mother’s level of experience and her personal situation.
Surrogate Parenting Services offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in California. Our packages start at $58,000, with many additional compensation add-ons possible. (Note that due to Covid-19, our pampering options have changed to ensure the health of the surrogate, her family, and the baby. Please contact us for details.)
Typically, all of the surrogate’s expenses are covered, including her screening costs, medical procedures, and legal expenses. Plus, she may receive a monthly payment or a one-time allowance that covers pregnancy-related costs such as maternity clothes, childcare, housekeeping, insurance co-pays, prenatal vitamins, local travel to doctor’s appointments, and more. For details about the benefits package, make sure to inquire with the agency.
Why is financial stability a requirement for surrogate mothers?
Surrogates who have the most successful and rewarding experiences are primarily inspired by altruistic motivations. Many surrogates genuinely want to help families realize their dreams, and many others have watched a loved one struggle with infertility. Surrogate mothers also set a fantastic example for their children, showing them what selflessness and compassion look like.
Of course, there is also a financial component to surrogacy in the U.S., and it can provide a significant contribution towards achieving a financial goal. For example, putting a down payment on a new home, starting a college fund, paying off their student loans, going back to school, or traveling with the family to experience new cultures.
Many surrogacy agencies, including Surrogate Parenting services, screen surrogates for financial stability so we can be certain that future discussions about surrogate compensation will be grounded in positivity and compatible with our values—and so we can help ensure the surrogate has the most fulfilling experience possible.
We hope this information about surrogate compensation was helpful for you!
Learn More About Becoming a Surrogate with Surrogate Parenting Services
Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate 30 Years of helping to bring dreams to life! Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy program that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We’re passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both sides and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.
Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.
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