Base Compensation
Base compensation is discussed early in the process and structured based on experience, location, and industry guidelines.
Your compensation:
- Is agreed upon before matching
- Is clearly defined in your legal agreement
- Is funded through escrow before transfer
- Is distributed in scheduled installments after pregnancy confirmation
Compensation acknowledges the time, responsibility, and commitment required throughout the journey.
Bonuses and Milestone Payments
In addition to base compensation, surrogates may receive milestone payments tied to specific stages of the process, such as:
- Medical clearance
- Legal clearance
- Beginning injectable medications
- Embryo transfer cycles
- Mock cycles or canceled cycles
These structured payments recognize the time and coordination involved before and during pregnancy.
Monthly Allowances and Reimbursements
Surrogates receive monthly support and reimbursements that may include:
- A non-accountable monthly allowance
- Maternity clothing allowance
- Housekeeping support during later pregnancy
- Wellness support
- Travel reimbursement when required
- Meal allowances for overnight travel
- Companion compensation during approved events
Allowances are outlined clearly in the legal agreement so expectations are defined in advance.
Medical, Legal, and Insurance Coverage
Surrogates are not responsible for surrogacy-related medical or legal costs.
Intended parents cover:
- IVF and pregnancy-related medical expenses
- Independent legal representation for the surrogate
- Required life insurance coverage
- Health insurance premiums when applicable
Your health insurance policy is reviewed before transfer to ensure appropriate coverage.
Additional Protections
Depending on medical circumstances, agreements may include additional provisions for:
- Cesarean delivery
- Multiple pregnancies
- Medically required bed rest
- Lost wages
- Invasive procedures
- Rare medical complications
These protections are structured in advance to prevent uncertainty if unexpected situations arise.
Escrow and Financial Protection
All compensation and approved expenses are managed through a third-party escrow provider.
This ensures:
- Funds are secured before medical treatment begins
- Payments are released according to contract terms
- Approved reimbursements are handled appropriately
- Financial boundaries between surrogate and intended parents remain clear
You are never responsible for requesting payment directly from intended parents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is compensation determined?
Compensation is based on experience, location, and current industry standards. It is discussed before matching and finalized during contract drafting.
When does compensation begin?
Compensation is distributed according to milestones outlined in the legal agreement, typically beginning after pregnancy confirmation.
Are medical and legal expenses covered?
Yes. Surrogates are not expected to pay for surrogacy-related medical care or independent legal representation.
How are reimbursements handled?
Approved expenses are submitted and reimbursed through escrow in accordance with contract terms.
Can experienced surrogates receive different compensation terms?
Yes. Prior surrogacy experience may influence base compensation and related benefits.
