How Much do Surrogates Make?

As a SENSIBLE surrogate, you can earn from $65,000 up to $85,000 for a surrogacy journey in the United States. Experienced surrogates, those with “maternity friendly” health insurance, and women in certain U.S. states often earn significant bonuses.

Every surrogate has unique needs and different priorities; that’s why all SENSIBLE’s compensation packages are completely personalized. Your pay will include individual benefits like wellness and “pamper” packages that meet your unique situation and desires. That said, below is a typical compensation package for a SENSIBLE surrogate.
 

Your Surrogate Pay in Detail

ProcedureCompensation

Surrogate Base Pay:

(Based on previous experience, location, insurance and other variables)

Up to $85,000

Monthly Living Allowance:

$250/month throughout the pregnancy, to cover the general costs of being pregnant (e.g. local travel, meals, telephone charges, postage, childcare charges, vitamin/supplements and over the counter products).

$3,500

Surrogate Support Sessions

At least one support session each month throughout the program.

$1,800

Wellness Package

Payment for any activity to aid in the well being of yourself, the pregnancy or the baby (i.e., prenatal exercise classes, nutrition counseling, prenatal massage, etc.).

$1,250

Start Medications Fee:

A single payment made whenever you begin a fertility treatment.

$500

Mock Cycle Fee:

A single payment paid if you are asked to undergo a "mock cycle".

$500

Embryo Transfer Fee:

A single payment made when you undergo an embryo transfer procedure.

$1,000

Maternity Clothes

For the purchase of maternity clothes, paid in the 2nd trimester

$800 to $1,000

Health Insurance Premiums

Health insurance is provided (or reimbursed if your current policy is surrogate friendly)

Actual Cost

 

But aside from financial rewards, many women get great satisfaction from helping a childless couple. Being a surrogate can be a meaningful way to support your own family while helping another couple fulfill their dreams.
 

Understanding Your Compensation Package

Your total compensation is separated into “Base Salary” plus “Benefits”.

Surrogate Base Pay

Your Base Pay is the cash payment you receive for being a surrogate and carrying the pregnancy. If you’re a first-time surrogate, your base pay typically ranges from $55,000 to $65,000. You may earn more if you have supportive health insurance, live in a surrogacy friendly state, or have other unique criteria.

Surrogate Benefits

Benefits are additional cash payments and reimbursements to support you during your pregnancy. You will receive an added $7,000 to $10,000 in various benefits. SENSIBLE’s benefits include a monthly living stipend, wellness & counseling programs, reimbursement for daily expenses, plus extra pay for completing certain milestones (like starting a fertility treatment or undergoing an embryo transfer).

Surrogates also get additional payments for expenses like maternity clothes, transportation, lost wages, household expenses, and more.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is an additional benefit offered to all surrogates. The cost of insurance ranges from $7,000 for an ObamaCare policy, to more than $20,000 for a policy on the open market. If you already have “surrogacy friendly” insurance, intended parents may reimburse some of the cost of your insurance premiums during the pregnancy.
 

The Final Word on Surrogate Pay

As a SENSIBLE surrogate, your total compensation may range from $65,000 to $85,000 or more. The exact amount will depend on many factors, including your experience, location and personal situation. Surrogates in “very friendly” states like California or Nevada may be paid slightly higher. Health insurance benefits can vary depending on your state or family situation.
 

When considering surrogacy agencies, be sure to review the entire compensation package. Some benefits are required by law and others are offered out of gratitude and support. All are part of a comprehensive compensation package that every SENSIBLE surrogate will arrange with her Intended Parents.
 

Bonuses/Gifts: While not mandatory, many parents like to offer a ‘signing bonus’ to entice their surrogate to come work with them. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a cash payment — bonuses can take the form of gifts, travel excursions, wellness packages, monthly spa treatments, and other types of gifts that make being pregnant a little easier.
 

To discuss the details of your specific Benefits Package, contact us now.