How Much do Surrogates Make?

Tessa Coffey
Tessa Coffey

Considering becoming a surrogate? Here is a breakdown of the surrogate compensation and benefits package.

If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, one of the common questions you may have is, “How much do surrogate mothers make?” Compensation for surrogates can vary depending on several factors, but it’s important to understand how this process works and what contributes to the overall payment. At Northwest Surrogacy Center (NWSC), we aim to make sure our surrogates are well-compensated for their dedication and the life-changing role they play in helping intended parents build families.

 

How Are Surrogate Mothers Compensated?

The total compensation for surrogate mothers can vary based on experience, location, and the specific circumstances of the surrogacy journey. Surrogate compensation covers more than just the pregnancy itself; it also takes into account the time, effort, and personal sacrifices made by the surrogate throughout the process.

 

Surrogate Compensation Breakdown

At NWSC, the compensation and benefits package for surrogate mothers generally ranges between $71,000 and $87,000+, depending on factors like experience, the complexity of the pregnancy, and geographic location. First-time surrogates usually earn around $71,000, while experienced surrogates can make more.

This package typically includes:

  • Base compensation: This is the core payment, covering the surrogate’s time and effort during pregnancy. Base compensation starts at $45,000 but can vary. California surrogates earn a base compensation of $50,000 and experienced surrogates earn an additional $10,000.
  • Additional compensation: Surrogates may receive extra payments for carrying multiples (twins or more), any medical complications, or other unique circumstances during the pregnancy.
  • Reimbursement for expenses: Costs such as lost wages, childcare, maternity clothing, and travel are reimbursed to ensure the surrogate is not financially burdened during the journey.

For a more detailed breakdown of surrogate compensation, you can check out our compensation guide.

 

Timeline: When Do Surrogates Get Paid?

Compensation for surrogates is typically spread out over the course of the pregnancy and beyond. Base compensation payments generally begin once a confirmed pregnancy is achieved and are made in installments throughout the journey. Surrogates at NWSC start receiving payments as early as contract signing, ensuring that they are supported financially before and during the pregnancy.

If you’re asking, “How much can I make as a surrogate?” the answer will depend on factors like where you live and whether it’s your first time as a surrogate. Experienced surrogates or those who meet specific criteria (such as carrying multiples) may receive higher payments. Payments also cover medical needs, missed work, and other potential costs, all of which are discussed upfront with your surrogacy coordinator.

 

Medical Needs

The surrogacy journey involves various medical requirements, including fertility treatments and prenatal care. These medical needs are covered by intended parents, but they are an important aspect of the surrogacy process that impacts both the surrogate’s well-being and compensation.

Medical procedures such as IVF, fertility treatments, and regular prenatal checkups are all essential parts of the journey, and surrogates are reimbursed for the time and energy required to attend appointments and meet medical requirements. Surrogates at NWSC earn $500 for starting their IVF medication and an additional $500 for each embryo transfer.

To learn more about the specific requirements to become a surrogate mother, check out our guide on what to expect.

 

Varies by Experience

Surrogates with prior experience tend to receive higher compensation than first-time surrogates. Experienced surrogates are in high demand because they have already gone through the process, understand the medical and emotional aspects, and can provide greater peace of mind to intended parents.

  • First-time surrogates: At NWSC, first-time surrogates can expect to earn around $71,000.
  • Experienced surrogates: Surrogates who have completed previous journeys can earn more, with total compensation reaching up to $87,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the pregnancy and any special requirements.

Becoming a surrogate involves a thorough and selective process, with specific requirements designed to ensure the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby. These include maintaining good physical health, leading a stable lifestyle, having experienced at least one healthy full-term pregnancy, meeting the BMI criteria, and fulfilling additional medical and emotional requirements. These guidelines help ensure that the surrogate is fully prepared for the journey and capable of supporting a healthy pregnancy from start to finish.

 

How to Become a Surrogate

If you’re considering surrogacy and are curious about how to become a surrogate, the process typically involves meeting with an agency, undergoing medical screenings, and working with legal professionals to ensure that all parties are protected. At NWSC, we provide comprehensive support and guidance for surrogates every step of the way.

You can explore the requirements to become a surrogate mother on our website to see if surrogacy is the right path for you.

 

Conclusion

Surrogacy is an incredibly rewarding experience, both emotionally and financially. If you’ve been wondering “How much do surrogate mothers make?” you now know that compensation can vary based on experience, location, and the details of the pregnancy. At NWSC, we ensure that surrogates are well-compensated for their dedication, offering competitive packages that reflect the important role they play in helping families grow.

If you’re interested in becoming a surrogate or learning more about how the compensation process works, feel free to reach out to us or explore our website for more information on the surrogacy journey.

 

Ready to see if you qualify?

If you are a healthy, nonsmoking woman between the ages of 21 and 41 years old and have had previous healthy, full-term pregnancies, we would love to hear from you!

Ready to take the first step to parenthood?

Schedule a free consultation with our team to answer your questions and discuss the surrogacy process, including matching times and costs.