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Becoming a surrogate is one of the greatest things you can do for those struggling to start or grow a family of their own. Giving a family the gift of a lifetime is priceless, but we firmly believe that surrogates should be properly compensated for their dedication, commitment, and compassion.

As you embark on your journey, it is important to consider all elements, one of which is surrogate compensation. The responsibility of carrying someone else's child from conception to delivery is a rewarding yet selfless act. However, it is not uncommon to ask yourself, what is considered a reasonable amount for a surrogate to make?

Here's how to ensure your surrogate compensation is adequate to take care of your needs and expenses related to the pregnancy.

What Do Surrogates Make?

‍On average, surrogate compensation in total ranges from $28,000 to $60,000, depending on various factors associated with the pregnancy. (At Worldwide Surrogacy, we offer base compensation from $45,000 to $60,000 based on Gestational Carrier's insurance, experience, and requests. This figure doesn't include additional compensation.) At times, surrogates may be entitled to more for certain expenses.

Allowances

‍After you have been matched with your Intended Parent(s), you should receive a monthly allowance that will commence upon contract signing and will be paid throughout the pregnancy. At Worldwide Surrogacy, in addition to your $350 monthly allowance, you'll receive additional compensation for testing/transfer travel expenses, embryo transfers, maternity clothes, housekeeping, and lost wages.

In addition to a monthly allowance and additional compensation, surrogates will receive additional compensation on an as-needed basis:

• Multiples Fee - $10,000 (per multiple)
• C-Section - $3,000
• Selective Reduction/Termination - $2,000
• Invasive Procedure not listed here - $500 (per procedure requiring anesthesia or overnight hospital stay)
• Cancelled Cycle - $1,000
• Mock Cycle (if applicable) - $250–$500
• Partial Loss of Reproductive Organs - $4,000
• Full Loss of Reproductive Organs - $8,000
• Breast Milk (if desired by IP’s) - $300/week
• Breast Milk Supplies/Shipping Costs - Actual Cost
• Amniocentesis - $1,000
• D&C/D&E - $500
• Psychological Counseling and Support During Pregnancy/Post-Birth - $1,000

Base Compensation

‍In addition to allowances, surrogates are paid a base compensation that generally begins upon detection of a fetal heartbeat. Normally, a surrogate's pay is distributed monthly thereafter until the delivery.

Often, women with more experience (meaning they have acted as a surrogate before) may receive more than a first-time surrogate. Generally speaking, experienced surrogates receive anywhere from $55,000-$60,000, whereas first-time surrogates may receive between $45,000-$50,000. As a surrogate, if you are carrying twins (or multiples), you should receive even more compensation (usually around $10,000 per multiple) in addition to your normal base compensation.

Be Wary if it's "Too Good to Be True"

‍Be wary of surrogacy agencies that offer what seems to be extraordinarily high surrogate pay. Make sure you have a lawyer to represent you who can explain the contract that you are asked to sign.

All in all, it takes a special person to be a surrogate. However, before beginning this journey, make sure that your surrogate compensation is adequate to take care of your needs and expenses related to the pregnancy. Not worrying about finances during your surrogacy journey is essential to making sure that the pregnancy is as stress-free and happy as possible.