For those dreaming of expanding their family, surrogacy can be a beacon of hope. However, navigating the world of surrogacy also means understanding the significant financial investment involved. So, how much does a surrogate cost? The answer, while varied, can be demystified by breaking down the expenses and understanding the factors that influence the final price tag.
Destiny Blackmon, who went through two surrogacy journeys, shared her experience with TODAY.com, estimating a total cost of around $100,000. This included the cost of eggs ($20,000), legal fees, travel, clinic expenses, and insurance, all separate and substantial costs. While the financial commitment is significant, Blackmon emphasizes that the years of research, emotional rollercoaster, and expenses were ultimately worth it.
Experts agree that the cost of surrogacy is highly variable and depends on individual circumstances. Stephanie Levich, founder and president of Family Match Consulting, estimates the “all-in average,” including surrogate compensation, agency fees, legal fees, and insurance, to be approximately $125,000 to $175,000.
Let’s delve into the specific costs associated with surrogacy in the United States:
Decoding the Costs of Surrogacy
Understanding the individual components of surrogacy costs is crucial for budgeting and financial planning.
Agency Fees: $15,000 to $30,000
Many intended parents choose to work with surrogacy agencies to streamline the process of finding a suitable surrogate. These agencies provide a range of services, including medical screenings for surrogates and egg/sperm donors, counseling for all parties involved, assistance with navigating insurance policies, and negotiating the terms of surrogacy and legal agreements. The cost of these services can vary greatly between agencies.
Levich explains that surrogacy agencies help intended parents find a gestational carrier. However, a common challenge is that an agency may not always have a surrogate available who meets the client’s specific criteria, leading to potentially long waitlists.
Surrogate Fees: $30,000 – $60,000
Surrogate compensation covers medical testing and screenings, the physical and emotional demands of carrying and delivering the child, and the overall surrogacy journey. Several factors can influence the surrogate’s fee, including her location, prior experience as a surrogate, and whether she is carrying multiples (twins or triplets). Additionally, the fee may increase if a cesarean delivery is required.
Legal Fees: $5,000 – $15,000
The legal aspects of surrogacy are crucial for establishing parental rights and ensuring a legally sound agreement. The total cost will depend on location and the specific lawyers involved.
Embryo Creation: $20,000 – $30,000
For gestational surrogacy, embryo creation is a necessary step. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is used to create the embryo, which is then implanted into the surrogate.
Egg Donation: $20,000 – $30,000
If intended parents require donor eggs, the cost can range significantly depending on various factors.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): $10,000 – $15,000
The average cost for a single IVF cycle is typically more than $12,000, but this can fluctuate based on location and the specific clinic.
Insurance Costs: $10,000 – $30,000
Most health insurance plans do not cover surrogate pregnancies. Intended parents are typically responsible for covering the surrogate’s insurance premiums and deductibles or securing a separate medical insurance policy for her.
Additional Costs: Varies
When budgeting for surrogacy, it’s wise to account for unexpected expenses. Agencies often recommend including a budget for items like maternity clothes for the surrogate, unforeseen medical expenses, travel and lodging if the surrogate lives far away, and the usual costs of preparing for a new baby.
Funding Your Surrogacy Journey
The financial burden of surrogacy can seem daunting, but various options exist to help intended parents manage the expenses. These include tapping into savings, seeking financial assistance from family and friends, and exploring surrogacy grants and loans.
According to Levich, finding a reputable agency that can provide guidance on financial planning is crucial. She also emphasizes the importance of educating prospective clients about the various options available so they can make informed decisions.
Surrogacy vs. IVF: A Cost Comparison
Surrogacy is generally more expensive than IVF alone. Since IVF is an integral part of surrogacy, the overall cost of surrogacy encompasses the IVF expenses plus additional fees. Levich advises prospective parents to factor in the cost of IVF medications, which can range from $3,000 to $5,000.
Insurance Coverage for Surrogacy
In most cases, insurance coverage for surrogacy is limited. Levich explains that screening, embryo transfer, and monitoring fees during the initial stages of surrogacy are often not covered. Once the surrogate is under the care of an OB (typically around 12 weeks of pregnancy), her personal insurance may be used.
However, many insurance policies have exclusions for surrogacy, making it essential to work with insurance professionals who specialize in surrogacy to determine the most appropriate and cost-effective plan.
Key Takeaways on Surrogacy Costs
While the dream of parenthood through surrogacy is invaluable, the financial reality is that it can be a significant investment. In the United States, the cost can easily exceed six figures. For Blackmon, despite the challenges and expenses, the journey was ultimately worthwhile.
Blackmon emphasizes the importance of support and encouragement for families pursuing surrogacy: “My husband and I are so thankful that there are people out there willing to help families who just want to have a baby to raise in love. It’s absolutely possible. Be encouraged.” Understanding the various cost components and exploring available financial resources can help intended parents navigate the path to building their families through surrogacy with greater confidence.
