Navigating surrogacy is challenging yet extremely rewarding. And, while it shouldn’t be the only reason you decide to become a surrogate, financial compensation is one of its many benefits. Because you’ll endure a physically and mentally demanding journey, you deserve to be properly compensated. 

Talking about surrogate compensation and pay can be complicated, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Let’s break down what you need to know about surrogate compensation — from benefits and expectations to everything in between.

Base Compensation for Gestational Carriers

There isn’t one flat rate for surrogates. In fact, various factors can impact payment, including whether you’re birthing multiples or if you’ve been a gestational carrier before. On average, first-time surrogates in the United States receive $40,000 to $55,000, with payment rising to $60,000 to $70,000 if you’ve done it before.

In addition to the base pay, you may also receive supplemental payments. These funds will compensate you for additional procedures, lost wages, travel expenses, or any other expenditure that comes up, so they vary depending on the circumstances of your pregnancy. For example, you’ll likely receive additional payments if you have a cesarean section versus a vaginal birth, as a C-section involves a longer recovery.

Does Being a Surrogate Cost Money?

There’s a lot that goes into being a surrogate. From doctor’s appointments to buying maternity clothes to accommodate your growing bump, you may wonder if you have to pay anything out of pocket. Fortunately, these expenses are typically paid for or later reimbursed by the intended parents. 

The goal of the intended parents and your agency team is to ensure the surrogate is comfortable and has everything necessary for a successful pregnancy and birth. If there’s anything you need along the way, don’t be afraid to ask.

Receiving Payments

No two people are the same, so no two surrogates will have the same financial circumstances and expectations. Discuss your financial expectations with your surrogacy agency before starting the matching process. It is important to make sure you are aware of the compensation and expenses you are entitled to from the onset. Those fees/expenses are shared with the Intended Parents prior to matching, so that you start the journey with an agreed-upon compensation package. The goal is for everyone involved in the surrogacy process to be on the same page. 

Explore Your Surrogacy Options with Confidence

Surrogacy is an incredible journey, and gestational carriers are generously compensated for their participation. Payments can vary based on the circumstances of the pregnancy, so it’s best to be honest about your expectations and desires from the get-go. At Reproductive Possibilities, we’d be happy to discuss our surrogacy process with you and answer any questions you have about compensation. For more information, contact our expert team today.