How much do surrogates earn?

Compensation follows a detailed 2025 structure. Base compensation: $35,000-$65,000 for first-time surrogates; $45,000-$91,000+ for experienced surrogates. Milestones/allowances include: $500 sign-on bonus at full legal clearance; $500 expedited notary bonus (if GSA signed/notarized within 48 hours); $1,500 injectable medication start (per qualifying cycle attempt); $2,500 per embryo transfer attempt (inclusive of time, lost wages, bed rest, incidental expenses); $300/month non-accountable allowance for up to 12 months (covers local travel, phone/internet, food, tolls/parking, miscellaneous). Additional compensation: $7,000 per additional fetus for multiples; C-section delivery: additional compensation as specified in agreement; maternity clothing $1,000 after 15 weeks (+$200 for multiples); pregnancy wellness program $1,000 after heartbeat; housekeeping allowance up to $1,400 weekly starting at week 28 (paused during physician-ordered bed rest). Medical/travel support: bed rest or activity restriction $250/week with physician’s note (covers childcare/housekeeping/misc.; lost wages included per policy); travel may include ground transportation up to $100, hotel up to $300/day, meal allowance $75/day, childcare $100/day per child (up to 6), and companion lost wages up to $100/day for 5 days with proof of employment. Cycle contingencies: dropped cycle $500; mock cycle $500; invasive procedures $500-$7,000 depending on type. Infectious disease waiver (excluding CMV) if required by clinic: minimum $5,000.

What usually drives cost or compensation

Costs (and compensation packages) are often driven by medical plan complexity, legal requirements, insurance strategy, and logistics like travel or additional appointments.

For transparent planning, ask for a written breakdown of what’s included, what can change, and how funds are handled (often via escrow) to protect both sides.

Typical workflow (high level)

1. Confirm eligibility: requirements, records, and a quick pre-screen.
2. Screening: medical records review, background checks, and psychological screening.
3. Matching: profile review, introduction, and alignment on expectations.
4. Legal: agreements are reviewed and signed before medical steps proceed.
5. Medical cycle + transfer: the clinic manages timing, medications, and monitoring.
6. Pregnancy + delivery: ongoing care coordination through birth and postpartum wrap-up.

What can vary (and why)

• Clinic schedules and medical protocols (individualized to the situation).
• State and international legal requirements (especially for parentage workflows).
• Matching preferences and availability (fit matters).
• Insurance and financial structure (coverage details can change).
• Logistics like travel, time zones, and appointment availability.

Questions to ask (so you don’t get surprised later)

• What are the next 2–3 steps in my specific situation?
• What documents or records should I prepare before we start?
• Which decisions should I make now vs later?
• Which fees are fixed vs which can change based on the medical plan?
• What is included vs not included in the quoted estimate?
• How are escrow and reimbursements handled?
• What support is available during pregnancy (coordination, counseling, emergency support)?
• What expenses are covered and how do reimbursements work?

Next steps

• Surrogacy requirements
• Apply as a surrogate
• Surrogacy process
• Contact our care team

Important note

This page is educational information only and is not medical, legal, or tax advice. Always confirm specifics with qualified professionals and your care team.

See the sources section below for reference links when available.