The Cost of Surrogacy: A Comprehensive Guide to Expenses and Considerations

The average cost of Surrogacy in the United States of America is much higher than in the rest of the countries. Surrogacy has become an increasingly popular option for couples and individuals looking to start a family. It offers the opportunity for those who are unable to conceive or carry a child to still experience the joys of parenthood.

However, along with the excitement and hope that comes with surrogacy, there is also the important consideration of cost. The financial aspects of surrogacy can often be a significant factor in the decision-making process for intended parents. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of the overall expenses involved in this method of building a family.

In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the costs associated with surrogacy and provide valuable insights into the different factors that can affect the final price. From agency fees to medical expenses, we will break down the various components of surrogacy costs and provide an overview of the range of fees that intended parents can expect to pay.

Key takeaway:

Here are the key takeaways regarding the cost of surrogacy:

• Costs vary widely based on location, services, legal needs, medical care, and compensation. The average range in the US is $100k-$150k.
• Going international can lower costs substantially – between $50k-$80k in countries like India, Mexico, and Ukraine.
• However, the legal and ethical implications of international surrogacy must be researched thoroughly first.
• While finances are crucial, the well-being of all parties should remain the priority when choosing agencies.
• Reputable professionals can guide costs and ensure an ethical process.
• Though expensive, surrogacy offers the possibility of parenthood for those who can’t conceive or carry a pregnancy.
• Understanding all contributing cost factors allows intended parents to make informed decisions about budgeting for this journey. It is good to refer to our surrogacy cost-saving tips.

Understanding the average cost of gestational surrogacy

In a typical surrogacy journey in the United States, approximately 50% of the total budget is allocated toward compensating the surrogate. Another one-third of the budget is allocated for agency fees and legal fees. The remaining portion of the budget is dedicated to covering clinic procedures and related expenses. Furthermore, the majority of the money is paid upfront, either to the clinic, or agency or into an escrow account.

On the other hand, overseas surrogacy programs often follow a month-by-month payment structure, where fees are charged as each service is performed.

The location of the surrogacy country plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Different countries or even specific jurisdictions within a country may have varying legal requirements and regulations.

If you are planning to do your surrogacy process in the US, it is one of the most expensive countries. The average cost of gestational surrogacy in the US can be around $130,000 to $200,000. Some states like California are more expensive as surrogate mothers are more in demand and legally favorable for all family types.

International surrogacy cost is much lower and almost 70% less than typical surrogacy cost in the USA.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in America- Surrogacy Cost Breakdown and Factors that Affect Surrogacy Price

Have you ever wondered, “How much does surrogacy cost?” It’s a question many people considering surrogacy ask. Let’s explore the factors that affect surrogacy costs in a typical surrogacy program. To understand the average surrogate cost let’s explore the tentative cost breakdown for each stage with costs associated.

Here is the surrogacy cost breakdown in a table format:

· Compensation for the Surrogate Mother

$55,000 – $75,000 and it is paid in full into escrow upon signing the surrogacy contract.

Compensation for the gestational carrier is an essential consideration. Surrogate compensation typically includes a base compensation amount, additional expenses related to pregnancy and maternity, and potential extras like lost wages, travel expenses, and health insurance coverage.

In the United States, a typical surrogate receives a monthly salary ranging from $35,000 to $55,000. Additionally, she is provided with various benefits amounting to an additional $5,000 to $10,000 USD.

The compensation structure should be discussed and agreed upon between the intended parents and the surrogate, considering various factors and legal requirements.

· Screening and support for the Surrogate Mother

$4,000 – $5,000 and it is paid once the surrogate is matched with the intended parents.

The process of evaluating a prospective surrogate is a crucial stage in ensuring that intended parents are matched with surrogate mothers who are both physically healthy and fully committed to successfully carrying a baby to full term.

 The expenses associated with the screening process are typically covered by the agency fees when working with a full-service agency. However, if paid separately, the cost of screening can amount to approximately $4,000. It is essential for all surrogates to undergo thorough medical, psychological, and emotional screenings to ensure their readiness for the commitment involved in surrogacy.

· Prenatal Care for surrogate mother

$5,000 – $10,000 and it is paid monthly from the escrow account.

For any surrogacy program compensation for prenatal care commences once the surrogate’s pregnancy is confirmed, typically around 3 to 4 weeks after the embryo transfer. Depending on the agreement, the intended parents may start covering the surrogate’s medical insurance expenses at this stage.

· Surrogacy Legal costs

$8,000 – $10,000 and it is due at the time of drafting the surrogacy agreement and then in the third trimester of the pregnancy.

In the typical budget, there are two significant legal services that play a crucial role. The first essential service is the drafting and execution of the surrogacy contract. It consists of the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved—the intended parents and surrogate.

Similarly, other services such as pre-birth or post-birth orders are taken under the legal fee. These are critical steps in the surrogacy process to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved and establish the legal foundation for the intended parents’ parental rights.

· Surrogacy Agency Fees and Services

The average cost of a surrogacy agency is $30,000 – $40,000 and it is paid at the start of the journey

Surrogate costs with an agency are higher as working with an agency can provide invaluable support throughout but come with associated fees. Surrogacy agencies offer various services, including surrogate screening, matching, coordination with medical professionals and legal experts, and emotional support for both the intended parents and the surrogate.

· Medical Costs like IVF – Embryo creation and embryo transfer

$25,000 – $35,000 and it is paid at the start of the IVF cycle and paid at the fertility clinic.

Medical expenses constitute a significant portion of surrogacy costs. These expenses include fertility treatments, such as IVF, prenatal care, and any necessary medical procedures. The complexity of the medical procedures required, including potential additional treatments or medical complications, can impact the overall cost.

· Surrogacy Insurance Costs

 $8,000 to $10,000 for private health insurance for the surrogate pregnancy

Intended parents hold the responsibility of covering the surrogate’s medical expenses throughout the surrogacy journey, including the provision of maternity insurance that encompasses all pregnancy-related appointments and healthcare services. Once the baby is born, they immediately include the child under their own insurance coverage.

Insurance coverage is another aspect that affects the cost of surrogacy. It is important to ensure that comprehensive medical and liability insurance policies are in place to cover the surrogate’s prenatal care, delivery, and potential complications.

The cost of insurance varies depending on the policy and should be factored into the overall expenses. Besides this, private health insurance for newborn babies can be approximately $25,000.

Factors Affecting Overall Cost of Surrogacy

 Questions about surrogacy costs are the most common faqs. Here are some additional factors to consider in full-service surrogacy:

1. Location of country/state: The cost can differ based on the country or state where the surrogacy arrangement takes place. The cost of medical procedures and the cost of living for a surrogate mother make a lot of variations.
2. Surrogate mother compensation: Surrogate mother pay differs depending on factors such as the surrogate’s experience, background, and location.
3. Medical complications and additional treatments: If there are any medical complications or if additional medical treatments are required, such as fertility treatments or prenatal care, these can add to the overall cost. The number of IVF cycles to achieve pregnancy and use of additional techniques like PGT.
4. Multiple births and associated expenses: Gestational carrier cost with twins is much more than a singleton pregnancy. For twins, expenses for the medical care of the surrogate and the babies will increase along with additional costs for neonatal care and the need for specialized medical attention.
5. Unforeseen miscellaneous circumstances and potential contingencies: Surrogacy journeys can sometimes encounter unexpected situations or complications, which may require additional resources or services.
6. Type of Surrogacy (Traditional or Gestational): Traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate uses her own eggs, may involve fewer medical procedures but can still incur expenses related to fertility treatments and legal processes. On the other hand, gestational surrogacy, which involves the use of the intended parents or a donor’s eggs, generally requires more extensive medical procedures, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), increasing the overall cost.
7. Egg donation services used or not: If you are using your own oocytes, your overall fee will be less as you can save up to $10,000 to #15,000 egg donor fee.

As you can see the breakdown of gestational surrogacy costs:

• Surrogate compensation makes up the largest share at 35%
• Agency fees also take a big share at 25%
• Medical costs are 20%
• Legal and insurance costs make up 10% each

I chose to visualize the breakdown in a pie chart because it allows you to easily see the proportion of each cost category in the total surrogacy cost. The percentages are based on typical ranges mentioned in the article.

How Much Does a Surrogate Cost?

 The overall expense associated with a surrogate typically falls within the range of $50,000 to $60,000, encompassing both base compensation and various additional benefits and expenses.

The surrogate mother’s compensation cost constitutes a significant portion of the overall surrogacy expenses incurred by the intended parents.

The total cost of a surrogate, inclusive of base compensation, may vary from $50,000 to $70,000. She gets another $5,000 to $10,000 USD in various benefits such as Monthly allowances for surrogate expenses, maternity clothing, housekeeping, child care, travel, and lost wages.

Additional costs may arise in specific circumstances, such as instances where bed rest is required, pregnancies involving multiples, or if a cesarean section becomes necessary, that is why being aware of aspects of surrogacy is important.

How Much is the Cost of Surrogacy Without Using an Agency?

 Not all intended parents can afford surrogacy in the USA. Such parents can choose “Independent Surrogacy/ Private Surrogacy” where they manage their journey themselves and experienced surrogacy professionals can help them with this, at a fraction of the cost.

So, by excluding the surrogacy agency services, you can do potential savings ranging from $20,000 to $40,000. However, all other expenses still apply. It’s important to note that without an agency managing the process, intended parents must invest a significant amount of time and effort. They are now responsible for coordinating and communicating with IVF clinics, local monitoring clinics, and hospitals—a role typically handled by an agency.

 How can you reduce the total cost of surrogacy?

1. Research and compare different surrogacy agencies: Take the time to explore various agencies and compare their fees and services. Look for agencies that offer transparent pricing structures and comprehensive packages that meet your specific needs.
2. Consider independent surrogacy arrangements: Instead of working with a full-service agency, some intended parents opt for independent arrangements. This involves directly connecting with a surrogate without agency involvement. While this approach requires more individual coordination and legal assistance, it can potentially lower overall costs. Furthermore, a friend or family member can help with being a carrier for you.
3. Explore international surrogacy options: However, it’s important to thoroughly research the legal frameworks and requirements of the chosen country before proceeding. The international surrogacy cost is as low as 70% less than the US.
4. Review insurance options: Understand the insurance coverage options available for surrogacy journeys. Consult with insurance providers to explore plans that cover maternity and prenatal care for the surrogate. Adequate insurance coverage can help mitigate medical expenses and cover the cost.
5. Plan and budget carefully: Create a detailed budget that includes all anticipated costs. This will help you identify areas where expenses can be minimized and allow for effective financial planning.
6. Seek financial assistance and surrogacy grants: Explore available grants, scholarships, or financial assistance programs specifically designed to support individuals or couples pursuing surrogacy. Additionally, consider crowdfunding platforms or fundraising activities to help offset some of the costs.

Why Does Surrogacy Cost So Much in the USA?

Surrogacy costs so much because it works at multiple levels and many parties are involved in completing the full process,

Due to the complex medical nature of fertility treatment, legal assistance needed, surrogate and egg donor compensations, administration and coordination work from a surrogacy agency, and a long period of prenatal care and birthing.

#1. Medical Procedures like ART, Screening, and Testing

One of the primary reasons for the high cost of surrogacy in the USA lies in the medical procedures and testing involved. Fertility treatments and medications, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), are often necessary to achieve a successful pregnancy. These assisted reproduction treatments come with their own expenses, including the cost of medications, laboratory tests, and monitoring.

 Additionally, surrogates undergo thorough screening and medical tests to ensure their suitability. These assessments are crucial for identifying any underlying health conditions or potential risks that may affect the pregnancy. The expenses associated with these medical procedures and testing contribute significantly.

#2. Legal and Agency Fees

Surrogacy involves complex legal agreements and contracts to protect the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Legal fees are incurred to draft and finalize these documents, ensuring that the surrogate, intended parents, and any other involved parties are legally protected.

 #3. Compensation for Surrogates

Surrogates deserve fair compensation for their selfless act of carrying a child for the intended parents. This compensation includes a base fee, which varies depending on factors such as the location, experience, and previous successful pregnancies of the surrogate. Additional expenses, such as maternity clothing, travel costs, and lost wages during the pregnancy, are also factored into the overall compensation.

International Surrogacy Options Worldwide

The cost of surrogacy worldwide varies as per the location and cost of medical procedures and surrogate compensation. Please remember each surrogacy case is unique.

Although international destinations offer gestational surrogacy at a significantly lower cost compared to the U.S., they come with various inconveniences, and finding a trustworthy partner can pose a challenge.

Below are some of the international surrogacy countries in which we assist our intended parents.

International Surrogacy Cost in 2024

#1. The average cost of services in the USA ranges from $130,000 to $150,000.

#2. Guarantee Surrogacy Baby Cost in Colombia, Bogota- For all parents. The cost of IVF, egg donor, and surrogacy with an all-inclusive guaranteed surrogacy baby is $65,000.

#3. Guaranteed Surrogacy Baby Cost in Georgia- For married couples. The secure or guaranteed baby cost in Georgia is 67,000 USD.

 #4. Guaranteed Surrogacy Baby Cost in Mexico- For all parents. The guaranteed baby Mexico surrogacy cost is 70,000 USD.

 #5. Guaranteed Surrogacy Baby Cost in Argentina- For all parents. The guaranteed baby Mexico surrogacy cost is 65,000 USD.

Cheapest countries for surrogacy: Surrogacy cost comparison

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of surrogacy can vary greatly depending on individual factors such as location, agency fees, medical expenses, and legal fees. It is important for intended parents to carefully research and budget for all potential costs involved in the surrogacy process.

It is also advisable to seek guidance from a reputable agency or legal counsel to ensure a transparent and ethical journey towards parenthood. While surrogacy may be a significant financial investment, for many individuals and couples, the joy of welcoming a child into their family is immeasurable and worth every penny.

If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at Complete Surrogacy. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE with our surrogacy experts to reduce the cost.

Our team has over 13 years of experience facilitating surrogacy arrangements, egg donation, and serving as an advocacy resource for infertile couples and LGBTQ individuals seeking to build families.

Our founder and chief surrogacy consultant, Neelam Chhagani, passionately helps couples struggling with fertility challenges. Since starting our surrogacy consulting agency in 2013, we’ve helped welcome over 500 babies for intended parents nationwide.

Our team includes experts from diverse backgrounds with leading reproductive attorneys, professionally trained top fertility doctors, former surrogacy case managers, experienced and kind surrogate mother and egg donor coordinators, mental health professionals specializing in infertility counseling, and a logistic support team to assist you in your chosen surrogacy country.

FAQ For the cost of surrogacy

How much does surrogacy cost?

The cost of surrogacy in the USA, surrogacy costs starts from $130,000 to $150,000. The cheapest international surrogacy countries are in Eastern European countries like Ukraine and Georgia ranging from $40,000 to $60,000.

How much does surrogacy cost for gay couples?

Surrogacy cost for gay couples ranges from $65,000 to $70,000 for the all-inclusive guaranteed baby plans in Colombia and Mexico.

What countries offer low-cost yet legal surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy is both legal and affordable for married couples in Eastern European countries like Georgia and Ukraine. For same-sex and single-male surrogacy, the most affordable countries are Mexico and Colombia.

 Is surrogacy covered by insurance?

Health insurance coverage for surrogacy-related services can vary depending on the insurance plan. It’s essential to review the policy and discuss coverage options with the insurance provider to understand what expenses may be covered.

What are hidden costs and unforeseen surrogacy expenses?

Despite careful planning, there may still be hidden costs and unforeseen expenses throughout the surrogacy journey. It’s essential to be prepared for unexpected financial obligations that may arise, such as medical complications, additional legal fees, or extended support required for the surrogate or the child.