Gestational Surrogacy in Indiana: A Comprehensive Guide to the State’s Surrogacy Cost, Laws, and Process
Surrogacy in Indiana poses significant challenges, as the state does not enforce surrogacy agreements. This mirrors the stance of many U.S. states.
While the act of surrogacy itself is legal, it introduces potential hurdles for both surrogates and intended parents. This is particularly true for those considering surrogacy in Indiana.
Understanding the unenforceability of surrogacy contracts is crucial. It highlights the risks and liabilities involved in surrogacy in Indiana.
Seeking advice from a local Indiana surrogacy lawyer is advisable. They can provide insights tailored to your specific situation.
Get in touch for a Free Surrogacy Consultancy:
📲 +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Additional guide for intended parents:
Key Highlights Of Surrogacy In Indiana
➔ Surrogacy agreements in Indiana are deemed “void and unenforceable.” This poses significant legal risks for both intended parents and surrogates. The state’s laws, as outlined in Indiana Code 31-20-1-1, prohibit gestational and traditional surrogacy contracts due to public policy concerns.
➔ Indiana permits paid surrogacy, despite the unenforceability of such contracts in court. This is because the state lacks legislation addressing payment for surrogacy services.
➔ Traditional surrogacy, while not explicitly banned, is subject to the same legal constraints as gestational surrogacy. Any contracts entered into are deemed void.
➔ Traditional surrogacy cases often face court denials of pre-birth orders. Consequently, intended parents must undergo an adoption process post-birth.
➔ Indiana lacks specific surrogacy legislation for contract formation. Legal agreements may need to be replaced with “memoranda of understanding”.
➔ To secure a pre-birth order, medical proof of the embryo’s genetic origin is required. This must be 100% genetically linked to both intending parents.
➔ Unmarried couples unable to obtain pre-birth orders may opt for second-parent adoptions instead.
Surrogacy Laws In Indiana- Is surrogacy legal in Indiana?
Is Surrogacy Legal in Indiana?
Yes, surrogacy is legal in Indiana. The state allows both traditional and gestational surrogacy, though there are no specific statutes regulating the process. This means that while surrogacy is legal, intended parents and surrogates must ensure their arrangement is legally sound, especially regarding parental rights.
Indiana courts are generally favorable to surrogacy agreements and will often issue a pre-birth order to establish the parental rights of the intended parents. Working with a lawyer specializing in surrogacy is essential to ensure that the surrogate cost in Indiana does not escalate due to unforeseen legal issues.
Surrogacy Law in Indiana Indiana’s surrogacy laws are clear and comprehensive, ensuring contracts are enforceable and agreements recognized. Both gestational and traditional surrogacy contracts are void and unenforceable, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting all parties’ rights.
Surrogacy Contracts and Pre-Birth Orders Obtaining a pre-birth order is a critical step in Indiana surrogacy. It establishes the intended parents’ legal rights and voids the surrogate’s parental rights. Surrogacy professionals in Indiana can assist with this legal process.
Intended parents and surrogates must have formal agreements, as mandated by Indiana surrogacy legislation. These agreements clearly outline each party’s rights and responsibilities, establishing a solid foundation for the relationship.
Surrogacy Contract In Indiana- Indiana Surrogacy Laws
Surrogacy contracts are prohibited in Indiana and are considered void and unenforceable. Despite this, gestational surrogacy is practiced, and some courts may issue pre-birth orders.
It is essential for parties to clearly outline their intentions, desires, roles, and responsibilities. This provides a framework for resolving disputes, as there are no specific rules for validating surrogacy arrangements in Indiana. Independent surrogate attorneys are necessary to protect both parties’ rights and interests.
These lawyers will draft a contract that addresses at least the following points:
➔ The responsibilities and rights of each party
➔ Any potential hazards and liabilities, as well as what procedures to take if they materialize,
➔ Compensation for surrogates and other financial details, such as surrogacy insurance
➔ Arrangements pertaining to delicate concerns like selective reduction and termination
➔ Contact requirements
➔ even more
Fertility centers and medical specialists won’t start the medical procedure for surrogacy until this contract is signed.
Legal Parentage In Indiana
In Indiana, pre-birth (and post-birth) orders are normally not allowed. However, under specific conditions, some courts are willing to award pre-birth orders. Pre-birth parentage orders are typically only approved if medical evidence demonstrating that the child is 100% genetically linked to both intended parents (i.e., no donor sperm or eggs were used) is shown.
In Indiana, parentage orders are currently exclusively granted to heterosexual couples. Therefore, same-sex couples should continue with a surrogacy arrangement in this state with caution. If you are considering gay surrogacy in Indiana, we advise taking a consultation with an experienced surrogacy attorney.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost In Indiana?
Indiana is an increasingly popular state for surrogacy due to its legal framework and access to reputable fertility clinics. However, understanding the surrogacy cost in Indiana is essential for intended parents planning their surrogacy journey.
The cost of surrogacy in Indiana can vary widely, depending on the surrogate’s compensation, medical procedures, agency fees, and legal services. In this article, we will provide a breakdown of the typical surrogate cost in Indiana and the various factors that influence the overall expense.
Overview of Surrogacy Costs in Indiana
The average surrogacy Price in Indiana typically falls between $120,000 and $150,000. This range includes essential expenses such as the surrogate’s compensation, medical procedures, agency fees, and legal fees.
Below is a more detailed breakdown of the components involved in the cost of surrogacy in Indiana:
- Agency Fees: Surrogacy agencies in Indiana typically charge between $15,000 and $25,000 for services like matching intended parents with surrogates and managing the process.
- Surrogate Compensation: The surrogate cost in Indiana ranges from $40,000 to $55,000 depending on the surrogate’s experience and the specific terms of the surrogacy agreement.
- Medical Costs: Fertility treatments like IVF, embryo transfers, and prenatal care typically add $30,000 to $45,000 to the overall cost.
- Legal Fees: Legal costs, which include the drafting of surrogacy contracts and establishing parental rights, range from $8,000 to $12,000.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Other costs like insurance, travel, and medical expenses that arise during the pregnancy can add $8,000 to $18,000.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
The following table provides a clear breakdown of the surrogacy cost in Indiana:
| Cost Component | Estimated Range (USD) |
| Agency Fees | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Surrogate Compensation | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| Medical Procedures | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Legal Fees | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $120,000 – $150,000 |
Factors Influencing Surrogacy Cost in Indiana
Several factors can impact the cost of surrogacy in Indiana:
- Surrogate’s Experience: Experienced surrogates typically demand higher compensation, which can increase the overall surrogate cost in Indiana.
- Health Insurance: If the surrogate’s insurance doesn’t cover surrogacy-related expenses, the intended parents may need to purchase a separate plan, adding to the surrogacy price in Indiana.
- Number of IVF Cycles: If multiple IVF cycles or embryo transfers are necessary, medical expenses will rise, thereby increasing the cost of surrogacy in Indiana.
- Legal Considerations: If there are legal complexities—such as international or same-sex couples—the legal fees may increase.
How to Save on Surrogacy Costs in Indiana?
While the cost of surrogacy in Indiana can be significant, there are several ways to reduce overall expenses:
- Work with Local Surrogates: Choosing a surrogate who lives in Indiana can significantly reduce travel and accommodation costs, thereby lowering the surrogacy rate in Indiana.
- Choose an Experienced Agency: A reputable surrogacy agency can ensure the process runs smoothly, reducing potential delays and the need for costly corrections.
- Use Frozen Embryos: If you already have frozen embryos, you can avoid the cost of egg retrieval, which can save tens of thousands of dollars.
- Insurance Coverage: Securing a surrogacy-friendly health insurance plan for your surrogate can prevent additional out-of-pocket expenses related to medical care.
Here’s a table summarizing potential savings strategies:
| Cost-Saving Strategy | Potential Savings (USD) |
| Selecting a local surrogate | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Using frozen embryos | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Choosing a reputable agency | $5,000 – $8,000 |
| Finding insurance with surrogacy coverage | $10,000 – $15,000 |
Gestational Surrogacy Process in Indiana For Intended Parents
If you want to grow your family through surrogacy and you live in Indiana, you might be wondering about the legal and practical implications of this process.
There are substantial risks and challenges associated with choosing this route because Indiana is one of the few states that prohibits gestational surrogacy contracts.
However, it is not impossible to have a successful surrogacy journey in Indiana if you work with experts who can guide you through the process and protect your rights and interests.
Any unmarried couples in Indiana who are unable to get a pre-birth order for their Indiana surrogacy may do it through second-parent adoption. In situations where they are unable to acquire a pre-birth order with both parents mentioned, married intended-parent couples can typically conduct a stepparent adoption.
The surrogacy procedure in Indiana is outlined below.
In Indiana there are typically six processes involved in surrogacy:
Step 1- Contact a surrogacy service or attorney to get started. They can help you with the process and pair you up with a suitable surrogate or intended parents.
Step 2- completing a screening procedure for the intending parents and the surrogate that entails in-home, background, and medical examinations.
Step 3- Finding a compatible match based on your preferences and objectives and getting to know one another by phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings
Step 4- Finishing the legal procedure, which can entail creating a letter of understanding, a declaration of purpose, or signing a surrogacy agreement in another state.
Step 5- Using fertility drugs, creating an embryo through IVF, and placing the embryo in the surrogate’s womb
Step 6- Getting the intended parents’ parental consent and preparing for the baby’s birth
Finding A Surrogate Mother In Indiana
The most significant choice you make as intended parents during the surrogacy process may be your choice of surrogate. So, let’s see how you can find a surrogate mother in Indiana.
You’ll be traveling intimately with this person for at least a year, and you’ll be investing your trust in her as she carries your hopes and goals for your expanding family.
➔ Fertility Clinic: A lot of fertility clinics provide internal surrogacy programs or can suggest qualified surrogates. At these clinics, a network of women who have expressed interest in becoming surrogates is typically visible.
➔ Online surrogacy agencies: There are numerous websites and discussion boards where prospective surrogates can be found. Surrogate profiles are commonly available on these networks, allowing you to choose someone who shares your interests.
➔ Surrogacy Agencies: A lot of surrogacy companies specialize in matching intended parents with surrogate mothers. It is a sensible and reliable option because these firms handle the entire process, including the legal, medical, and matching aspects.
➔ Online communities and classified advertisements for surrogacy: Participating in social media groups, forums, and websites dedicated to surrogacy might make it easier to meet potential surrogates. On these networks, you can join discussions, post ads, and hunt for surrogates who meet your requirements.
➔ Altruistic Surrogacy: Sometimes family members or close friends will volunteer to carry a child. This procedure is known as altruistic surrogacy, where the surrogate is someone, you already know and trust.
Becoming a Surrogate mother in Indiana
Requirements and Legal Considerations
Becoming a surrogate in Indiana involves meeting specific requirements and understanding the legal risks. It’s crucial to have proper legal representation to navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure a smooth surrogacy journey.
Surrogate Compensation Indiana allows for compensated surrogacy, which means surrogates can receive compensation for their selfless act of helping intended parents achieve their dreams of parenthood. The compensation, although surrogacy-friendly, must comply with Indiana’s legal framework.
Legal Support and Resources
Local Indiana Surrogacy Attorney To create a surrogacy agreement that adheres to the state’s laws and ensures the legal rights of all parties, it’s advisable to speak with a local Indiana surrogacy attorney. They can provide guidance on reproductive law, estate planning, and other legal aspects of surrogacy.
Affordable International Surrogacy Countries: Alternatives to High-Cost USA Surrogacy Programs
For many intended parents, the high cost of surrogacy in the USA—ranging between $120,000 and $200,000—makes international surrogacy an attractive alternative. Several countries offer affordable surrogacy options while maintaining ethical and legal safeguards.
Why Choose International Surrogacy?
- Cost Savings: Significant reduction in costs compared to the USA.
- Access to Surrogacy-Friendly Laws: Some countries have clear, legally binding frameworks.
- Cultural Accessibility: Countries like Mexico and Colombia are geographically close and culturally accessible for many intended parents.
- Broader Eligibility: Countries like Argentina allow surrogacy for LGBTQ+ couples and single parents.
Factors to Consider While Choosing an International Surrogacy Destination
- Legal Framework: Understand the surrogacy laws in the chosen country and ensure contracts are enforceable.
- Cost: Compare costs, including medical treatments, legal fees, and travel expenses.
- Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including marital status and medical indications.
- Medical Infrastructure: Choose a country with reliable clinics and experienced medical professionals.
- Proximity and Travel Requirements: Consider travel costs, visa requirements, and the ease of returning home with the baby.
- Cultural and Language Barriers: Opt for countries where language and cultural differences are manageable.
- Support Systems: Work with experienced surrogacy agencies and legal teams familiar with the local processes.
By thoroughly researching and considering these factors, intended parents can choose the best international surrogacy destination that aligns with their financial, legal, and emotional needs.
Top Affordable Surrogacy Destinations- Cheapest Countries for Surrogacy
Below is a look at some of the most cost-effective international surrogacy destinations, including their processes, costs, legal frameworks, and eligibility criteria.
1. Surrogacy in Mexico
- Process: Surrogacy is largely unregulated except in certain states like Tabasco. Surrogacy arrangements are conducted through private agreements with clinics.
- Cost: $60,000–$80,000
- Legal Framework: Only available for heterosexual married couples or single parents in certain states.
- Eligibility: Requires legal contracts; intended parents must work with experienced lawyers to ensure enforceability.
2. Surrogacy in Colombia
- Process: Altruistic surrogacy is allowed, with a focus on legally binding contracts. IVF treatments are accessible at reasonable rates.
- Cost: $60,000–$70,000
- Legal Framework: Open to heterosexual couples and single parents.
- Eligibility: No citizenship requirements; contracts must be reviewed to ensure compliance with Colombian law.
3. Surrogacy in Georgia (country)
- Process: Georgia has well-established surrogacy laws, and agreements are legally binding.
- Cost: $50,000–$70,000
- Legal Framework: Available only to heterosexual married couples. Parental rights are granted exclusively to the intended parents.
- Eligibility: Requires marriage certificates with at least one year of partnership.
4. Surrogacy in Ukraine
- Process: One of the most popular destinations before the geopolitical crisis, offering transparent processes and strong legal protections.
- Cost: $50,000–$70,000
- Legal Framework: Only heterosexual married couples are allowed. Surrogates have no parental rights.
- Eligibility: Only married hetero couples with proof of medical need are required.
5. Surrogacy in Armenia
- Process: Armenia’s surrogacy laws provide legal certainty, making it a growing destination for intended parents.
- Cost: $50,000–$70,000
- Legal Framework: Open to heterosexual married couples.
- Eligibility: Requires couple to be married hetero and age limit for female partner is 53.
6. Surrogacy in Argentina
- Process: Altruistic surrogacy is practiced, but contracts are not legally enforceable. Families work closely with surrogates and clinics.
- Cost: $50,000–$70,000
- Legal Framework: No specific laws on surrogacy, but recognized through family law. Open to all family types, including LGBTQ+ couples.
- Eligibility: Collaboration with legal experts is crucial to navigating the informal framework.
7. Surrogacy in India
- Process: India recently reopened surrogacy to Indian citizens only, with a focus on altruistic arrangements.
- Cost: $25,000–$40,000
- Legal Framework: Available only to heterosexual married Indian couples/ Surrogacy in India for NRI and Surrogacy in India for OCI is possible if thy fulfill all other conditios; commercial surrogacy is banned.
- Eligibility: Couples with citizenship of India/ NRI/ OCI card holder and medical need documentation are mandatory.
Comparative Table: Surrogacy Costs in the USA and Surrogacy Abroad Countries
| Country | Cost Range | Legal Framework | Eligibility Criteria | Key Feature |
| USA | $120,000–$200,000 | Fully regulated, binding | Open to all family types | High-quality medical and legal services |
| Mexico | $60,000–$80,000 | Semi-regulated, binding in parts | Heterosexual married couples, singles | Lower costs and proximity for Americans |
| Colombia | $50,000–$70,000 | Binding legal contracts | Open to heterosexual couples, singles | Affordable and accessible IVF treatments |
| Georgia | $40,000–$60,000 | Strict legal framework | Heterosexual married couples | Strong legal protection |
| Ukraine | $40,000–$70,000 | Strict legal framework | Heterosexual married couples | Transparent and reliable processes |
| Armenia | $50,000–$70,000 | Strong legal protections | Heterosexual married couples | Growing popularity with legal certainty |
| Argentina | $40,000–$60,000 | Informal, family law-based | Open to all family types | LGBTQ+ friendly with affordable options |
| India | $25,000–$40,000 | Strict, altruistic only | Indian citizens only | Most affordable option for eligible parents |
Looking for Best Surrogacy clinic / Surrogacy agency abroad?
We are here to help with more than 15 years of experience in offering safe, reliable, and affordable surrogacy options globally.
We analyze your needs, budget planning, egg donor availability, and destination preferences with the legal framework and find top surrogacy countries and agencies for you!
Our consulting services are free of cost and do not affect your costs in any way but help you to save tons of research time and money.
Additional guide for intended parents:
Conclusion
Whether you are an intended parent or a potential surrogate, you should carefully consider every aspect of your surrogacy in Indiana before committing to it.
Many surrogacy providers would advise you to pursue a surrogacy-friendly state due to the risks and difficulties of this process. It is good to know and understand that gestational surrogacy continues and traditional surrogacy agreements before opting for any type of surrogacy arrangements.
Indiana’s surrogacy laws make it a welcoming state for those considering surrogacy. Understanding the legal landscape and seeking proper legal representation is essential to ensure a smooth and successful surrogacy journey for all parties involved. You should be aware of the legal risk for intended parents and surrogate mothers.
Surrogacy in Indiana is a viable option for intended parents seeking a supportive legal environment and access to high-quality fertility clinics. The surrogacy Price in Indiana typically ranges from $120,000 to $150,000, depending on factors like surrogate compensation, medical fees, and legal expenses. While the cost of surrogacy in Indiana can be high, careful planning and the use of cost-saving strategies can help reduce the overall expenses.
If you’re considering surrogacy in Indiana, it’s essential to work with a trusted surrogacy agency and legal professional to ensure that all aspects of the process go smoothly and that you fully understand the financial commitments involved.
Please note that this information is for reference only, and it is advisable to consult with a local Indiana surrogacy attorney for precise legal guidance related to surrogacy in Indiana.
Our Complete Surrogacy Consulting Services /Case Management coverscover a wide range of services globally, including:
✓ Guide and Support to choose the secure and legal surrogacy program
✓ Surrogacy clinic and agency recommendations
✓ Legal support and referrals
✓ Logistic support/planning
✓ Surrogacy agency liaison
✓ Financial planning/financial aids
✓ Citizenship and passport assistance
✓ Case management
✓ Shipment assistance
✓ Collaborations with third-party support (if you have your own clinic/agency to make sure your program is done properly)
✓ Quick and transparent communication
At COMPLETE SURROGACY our goal is to ensure ana affordable, reliable, smooth, and supportive experience as you start this remarkable journey towards parenthood. If there are any specific questions, concerns, or details you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
We are happy to assist you with one of our global surrogacy programs best suited you your personal and legal needs. I am here to assist you every step of the way
Get in touch for a Free Surrogacy Consultancy:
📲 +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Frequently Asked Questions about Surrogacy in Indiana
What is surrogacy in Indiana?
Surrogacy in Indiana is a legal arrangement where a woman, known as a surrogate, carries a child for intended parents who cannot conceive naturally.
What are the surrogacy laws in Indiana?
The Indiana Code governs surrogacy laws, detailing the legal framework and procedures involved.
Can I become a surrogate in Indiana?
Yes, you can become a surrogate in Indiana if you meet specific criteria. It’s crucial to collaborate with a reputable surrogacy agency or attorney to navigate the process.
Are surrogacy contracts enforceable in Indiana?
No, surrogacy contracts in Indiana lack enforceability. Seeking legal counsel is essential to comprehend the rights and obligations of all parties.
What is gestational surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy involves a surrogate carrying a child conceived through IVF using the intended parents’ embryos. The surrogate has no genetic link to the child.
How do I obtain a pre-birth order in Indiana?
To secure a pre-birth order in Indiana, collaborate with a surrogacy attorney. They will assist in the legal process, establishing the intended parents’ legal parentage before birth.
Are surrogacy contracts void and unenforceable in Indiana?
Yes, surrogacy contracts in Indiana are deemed void and unenforceable. Consulting with a surrogacy attorney is vital to grasp the legal implications and available alternatives.
What are the legal rights of surrogates and intended parents in Indiana?
Surrogates and intended parents in Indiana have the right to legal counsel to safeguard their rights and responsibilities. It’s imperative to engage professionals well-versed in surrogacy law.
Is surrogacy legal in Indiana?
Yes, surrogacy is legal in Indiana, but it adheres to certain legal stipulations and restrictions as outlined in the Indiana Code.
Disclaimer:
All legal information on this website is intended only as a guide and is not a replacement for the opinions of licensed legal professionals/Medical professionals. Some information may have changed since the time of publication. We advise you to consult a licensed attorney/Medical expert with authority in fertility/surrogacy processes.
About Author:
Neelam Chhagani, MA (Counselling Psychology), PGD (Mental Health), and Holistic Infertility and Third-Party Reproduction Consultant.
Member of the European Fertility Society (EFS) and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), Best Surrogacy Blogger for surrogacy and infertility treatment.
Highly esteemed, authoritative, and trusted professional with a 15-year of experience in international surrogacy and fertility medical tourism. Advocate for Secure, Legal, and Affordable International Surrogacy Globally.
I was introduced to Neelam by a friend who worked with Neelam for surrogacy. Neelam is absolutely wonderful. I am a single male and the journey to fatherhood is not that easy. Neelam connected me to a program ideal for my circumstances. She was with me throughout the pregnancy providing advice and guidance along the way. I am so grateful I found her and am thrilled today that I have a beautiful daughter. I highly recommend Neelam to anyone who is on a journey to become a parent. Having a child has changed my world for the better. I wish others success with their own journey and recommend you connect with Neelam to find a path that is best for you.
SA (USA)