Thinking about becoming a surrogate? You’re not alone, and you’re not selfish for wondering about compensation either. This blog will walk you through the emotional and financial aspects of surrogate pay, including what first-time and second-time surrogates can expect. Whether you’re motivated by a calling to help a family grow or looking to create financial stability for your own, this is your guide to what surrogates really make.
Key Takeaways
- Average surrogacy compensation in the U.S. ranges from $65,000 to $100,000+, depending on your experience and other factors.
- First-time surrogates start with generous base pay, while second-time surrogates can earn significantly more.
- Your compensation package covers not just the pregnancy but every cost associated with your journey, including medical, legal, and personal expenses.
- A detailed surrogacy contract ensures you’re legally protected and paid fairly.
Why Surrogates Deserve to Be Compensated Generously
Let’s get one thing straight. Choosing to become a surrogate is an extraordinary act of generosity. You’re carrying a child for someone else, a gift of immeasurable emotional and biological value.
That means your compensation isn’t just about the pregnancy, but the emotional labor, medical procedures, legal process, and months of physical commitment you go through.
At Creative Love, we believe that surrogates deserve to be supported, respected, and fairly compensated, not just with money, but with kindness, transparency, and a community that cares deeply about your experience.
What Is the Average Surrogacy Compensation in the U.S.?
Currently, average surrogacy compensation in the United States ranges from $55,000 to $100,000+, depending on several factors [Source]. For some, it may go even higher, especially for experienced surrogates, twin pregnancies, or those with a proven track record of healthy pregnancies.
But this isn’t a flat rate. Your compensation package includes base compensation, monthly allowances, child care, maternity clothing, lost wages, medical bills, travel expenses, and other factors related to the surrogacy process.
First Time vs. Second Time Surrogate Compensation
So, how much do first-time surrogates make?
At Creative Love, first time surrogate compensation typically starts at around $59,000 to $90,000 in base pay, with additional compensation depending on your unique situation.
But if you’re a second time surrogate, congratulations. You’re considered a repeat surrogate, and that valuable experience matters. Second-time surrogate compensation often includes a higher flat rate, usually starting around $70,000+ and rising with each successful journey.
Why? Because intended parents deeply value someone with a history of healthy pregnancy outcomes.
What Influences Surrogacy Pay?
Here are several factors that impact how much surrogates make:
- Experience: Experienced surrogates often receive higher compensation
- Medical History: A proven track record of full-term, uncomplicated pregnancies is highly valued
- Number of Children Carried: Carrying twins or more can result in additional pay
- Surrogacy Agency: Not all agencies are transparent or supportive (Hint: Creative Love is!)
- Insurance Coverage: Whether or not your current health insurance covers the pregnancy matters
At Creative Love, we make sure all these factors are discussed openly and honestly because there should be no surprises when it comes to your surrogate income.
Breaking Down the Surrogate Compensation Package
To give you a clearer idea, here’s what’s typically included in a surrogacy compensation plan at a reputable surrogacy agency like Creative Love:
Every surrogacy contract will outline these clearly so you know exactly what to expect.
| Category | Description | Amount | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Allowance | Covers small, incidental costs (travel under 80 miles, OTC meds, vitamins, etc.) | $350/month (12+ months) | |
| Start of Medication | Lupron or equivalent start fee | $800.00 | |
| Embryo Transfer Fee | Paid after transfer | $1,000.00 | |
| Maternity Clothing | Provided at 12 weeks gestation | $1,000.00 | |
| Lost Wages | Gross lost wages for post-delivery recovery (6-8 weeks) | Varies based on income | |
| Life Insurance | $750,000 policy provided | Paid by agency | |
| Psychological Support | Counseling and support services | As needed |
Special Circumstances & Procedures
| Event | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Twin Pregnancy | $10,000.00 |
| Selective Reduction | $2,000.00 |
| C-Section Delivery | $6,000.00 |
| Drop Cycle | $750.00 |
| Invasive Procedure (e.g., Amnio) | $1,500.00 |
| Termination for Medical Reasons | $1,500.00 |
| Loss of Reproductive Organ | $10,000–$20,000 (Insurance policy pays directly to the surrogate. |
| Bed Rest (doctor ordered) | TBD (case-based) |
| Breast Milk Pumping (post-birth) | $300/week |
Why a Transparent Surrogacy Contract Matters
The legal process involved in surrogacy isn’t just formal, it’s essential. Your surrogacy contract protects you, the intended parents, and the baby. It clearly defines expectations, outlines surrogate pay, and covers everything from lost wages to travel expenses.
At Creative Love, we only work with trusted surrogacy professionals and attorneys who specialize in this space. We make sure that you are never left in the dark about your rights, responsibilities, or income.
Do Gestational Surrogates Pay Out of Pocket?
Absolutely not. As a gestational carrier, you should never pay for any part of the surrogacy process.
All expenses related to the pregnancy, from medical procedures to legal fees, are covered by the intended parents.
We also ensure that your health insurance is reviewed, or that a new surrogate-friendly policy is provided.
Your financial security is just as important as your physical and emotional well-being.
Compensation Isn’t Everything, But It Does Matter
Let’s talk about something real for a moment. Surrogacy is not a job. It’s a calling. But it’s also a major responsibility, physically, emotionally, and mentally.
You’ll go through embryo transfer, deal with hormonal changes, navigate pregnancy symptoms, and put your life on pause for months to help another family grow. That’s not a small ask.
So yes, surrogates deserve to get paid, and they deserve to feel empowered while doing it.
It’s okay to want financial stability. It’s okay to see surrogacy as a way to help your own family while helping someone else build theirs.
Why So Many Women Choose Creative Love
Many women who begin their surrogacy journey with Creative Love tell us the same thing. “I felt seen. I felt valued.” And that means everything to us.
We provide:
- One-on-one guidance through every step of the surrogacy process
- Transparent, fair, and competitive compensation
- Emotional support from a community of surrogacy professionals
- Legal, financial, and logistical support from start to finish
We’ve walked this road with first-time surrogates and second-time surrogates alike, and we’re here to make sure your first journey or your fifth is a safe, positive, and empowering experience.
Let’s Talk About Your Journey
You’re not just a surrogate mother. You’re a giver of hope, a builder of dreams, and a real-life superhero.
You deserve to know your worth, and to be treated with care, dignity, and love throughout your journey.
At Creative Love, we see you. We respect you. And we’re ready to support you, every step of the way.
Thinking about becoming a surrogate?
Let’s start this beautiful journey together. Reach out today and learn more about what you can expect, not just in compensation, but in compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogate Compensation
Do first-time surrogates get paid less?
Yes, generally first time surrogate compensation starts lower than for repeat surrogates, but it’s still generous and includes many additional benefits.
How do second time surrogates benefit?
Second time surrogate compensation includes a higher flat rate and often more flexibility, thanks to your proven track record and experience.
Does my location affect how much I get paid?
Yes, average surrogacy compensation can vary depending on your state due to legal frameworks and cost of living.
Are all medical bills covered?
Yes. Intended parents pay for all medical procedures, IVF clinic fees, and expenses related to the pregnancy.
Is there a monthly allowance during the pregnancy?
Absolutely. Most agencies, including us, provide a monthly allowance to cover everyday costs like gas, food, and other basics.
Wendy Arker entered the field of infertility with a huge heart and passion to guild others on their quest to grow their own family after her personal journey with infertility and turning to egg donation and sperm donation to create her own family. Being a single-mother-by-choice, Wendy understands firsthand the unique way families are built. Whether you’re a married couple, single, or LBGTQ, Creative Love is committed to assisting you.
