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What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a powerful act of love, purpose, and possibility.
When you carry a child for someone else, you become an essential part of their story — offering hope to those who cannot experience pregnancy themselves due to medical, biological, or personal reasons.
As a surrogate, you’re not only helping create a new life — you’re transforming someone’s future, and your own, in ways you may not even expect. It’s a deep and meaningful commitment, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Yes, it’s a hormonal roller coaster. Yes, it’s a feat of epic proportions. And if you ask any of us who’ve done it?
It’s the most rewarding journey you’ll ever take.
For many, the inspiration comes from someone close — a friend, a family member, someone you love and admire who would make a wonderful parent but faces obstacles. Maybe it’s your gay best friend. Maybe it’s an aunt who’s battled infertility. For all of us, the choice to become a surrogate is rooted in something real: the chance to turn what might be heartbreak into joy.
Because some families can only be built through the incredible generosity of someone like you.
What is Gestational Surrogacy
A gestational carrier is more commonly called a gestational surrogate, or simply a surrogate or “GC”, refers to a woman such as yourself who is willing to carry a child for someone else and become an essential part of their story.
Understanding Gestational Surrogacy
It’s normal to have questions — especially at the beginning. Many parents arrive at this process after a long road of fertility challenges, loss, or difficult decisions. That’s why at All About Surrogacy, we provide a space that puts you first — with clear information, real-life stories, and a supportive community that understands just how powerful your role is.
Here are three important things to know:
You won’t be genetically related to the baby.
The egg and sperm come from the intended parent(s) and/or donors — never from the surrogate.
Pregnancy begins through IVF.
Fertilization happens outside the body, and a doctor transfers the embryo to your uterus.
You’re supported every step of the way.
From medical care to emotional support, our focus is on you — the surrogate — throughout the entire journey.
Surrogacy: A Life-Changing Gift
Surrogacy is a deeply meaningful way to help create families — a journey full of purpose, possibility, and heart. By carrying a baby for someone who can’t experience pregnancy themselves due to medical or personal reasons, surrogates become essential partners in making parenthood possible.
As a surrogate, you’re changing someone’s life forever — and your own in the process. You’re helping bring a child into the world, offering hope where there once may have been heartache. It’s a big commitment, emotionally, mentally, and physically. A hormone-fueled roller coaster. A powerful, life-shifting experience. And if you ask anyone who’s been there?
It’s truly life-changing
Many surrogates are inspired by people close to them — a best friend whose part of the LGBTQ+ community, a sister or aunt who’s struggled with infertility, or someone they know who would make an amazing parent but needs help to grow their family. When given the chance to bring joy and possibility into someone’s life, many of us have chosen to say yes — to create something that couldn’t happen without us.
How Do I Know if I Qualify to be a Surrogate
We’re So Glad You’re Here!
Before we dive into how to qualify to become a surrogate, we just want to say — welcome. Truly.
Nothing makes us happier than connecting with someone who shares our mission: helping families grow through the gift of surrogacy. If you’re here, that means you’re considering something extraordinary — and we’re honored to be part of your journey.
Let’s Get to Know Each Other
The first step? Filling out a getting-to-know-you form. This helps us understand your story and what inspired you to explore surrogacy — and it helps you learn what’s ahead in the process. Together, we’ll figure out if this is the right fit for you and your life.
Basic Surrogate Requirements
To be eligible to start your surrogacy journey, you’ll need to meet these criteria:
You’re between 21–42 years old
You have a BMI under 35
You are a U.S. citizen or green card holder
You live in a surrogacy-friendly state (unfortunately, Louisiana and Nebraska are excluded)
You’ve had no more than 3 C-sections
You’ve carried and delivered at least one full-term pregnancy without complications
What Happens Next?
Once we’ve reviewed your getting-to-know-you form, we’ll reach out to talk through next steps, answer any questions, and guide you toward the agency that aligns best with your preferences and goals.
What Disqualifies You From Being A Surrogate?
Sometimes, certain factors mean you might not qualify to be a surrogate — here are a few possible reasons.
Not having a child of your own
Not being a U.S. Citizen
Not being financially stable
Being a smoker
Not being between the ages of 21-42 years old
Having a BMI less than 19 or higher than 35
Not living in a surrogacy-friendly state
i.e. Nebraska and Louisiana
If it turns out you don’t qualify to be a surrogate, please know it’s not because you’ve done anything wrong. Most often, it’s about meeting specific medical guidelines from fertility clinics and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine to help make sure the journey is safe and successful. This doesn’t affect your ability to have your own healthy pregnancies.
You’ll fill out these questions on our getting-to-know-you form at your own pace, and then one of our team members will follow up with you. We’ll help you figure out the best next steps for you. No matter what, you’re amazing for considering this path — and you’re never alone on this journey.
How Long Does a Surrogacy Journey Take?
We know you’ve got a full plate (and probably a snack cup in your hand, too). Life doesn’t pause when you start your surrogacy journey — and it doesn’t have to. Surrogacy is a time commitment, but it’s one that can fit alongside your everyday life. Many surrogates say that reaching each milestone along the way gives them even more motivation to keep going.
Every surrogacy journey is unique, which means timelines can vary — and that’s okay! Below is a general idea of how long certain steps might take. Just know: we’re here to work with your schedule, not against it.
Your life keeps going — and your team at All About Surrogacy (plus your agency and clinic) will always do their best to make things work around your availability.
Your surrogacy agreement will cover all those “what if…” moments, so you’re never caught off guard if something moves faster or slower than expected.
You’ll have clear expectations and boundaries from the start, so you always know what’s coming next — and what’s being asked of you.
Application & Screening (1–2 months)
You’ll fill out your interest form, talk with our team, and complete non-medical and psychological screenings to make sure surrogacy is the right fit.
Matching with an Agency & Intended Parents (about 1 month)
Once you’re approved, we’ll help you find the right agency and match you with intended parents who align with your values and preferences.
Medical & Legal Clearance (2–4 months)
You’ll complete fertility clinic screenings, review and sign legal contracts, and get ready for the embryo transfer.
Embryo Transfer & Pregnancy (9–12 months)
You’ll begin medications to prepare for the embryo transfer (which typically includes a short trip). If successful, you’ll carry the pregnancy and attend regular checkups.
Delivery & Postpartum (1–3 months)
After delivery, we’ll continue to support you as you recover physically and emotionally — you’re never in this alone.
Altogether, you can expect your surrogacy journey to take around 18 to 24 months if everything goes smoothly. But here’s what really matters — no matter where you are in the process or how long it takes, you’re never doing this alone.
We’ll be here, every step of the way.
Surrogate Compensation & Benefits: What You Need to Know
Surrogacy is a deeply meaningful experience — and yes, it comes with financial compensation, too. At All About Surrogacy, we make sure you’re paid fairly and that all of your care, support, and benefits are fully covered.
Compensation can vary based on a few factors, and we’re here to walk you through every part of it so you know exactly what to expect. No guesswork, no confusion — just honest, helpful info every step of the way.
Base Pay for Surrogates
Most surrogates receive a base pay ranging from $50,000 to $60,000 per pregnancy. With additional benefits included, total compensation can often reach $60,000 to $80,000 or more. Your final amount may depend on several factors, including:
How many babies you’re carrying
Where you live
Whether you’ve been a surrogate before
If you have your own health insurance
It’s also important to know that base pay is just one part of the full compensation package — additional benefits and reimbursements are included, too.
Why Your Choice of Agency Matters
Picking the right surrogacy agency is a big decision — and it directly affects how (and how much) you’re paid.
Agencies offer structured compensation packages that clearly outline everything included: base pay, plus extras like travel costs, lost wages, maternity clothing, childcare support, and more. They’ll also factor in your experience level and any unique circumstances to create a custom plan that fits your journey.
Working with the right agency means knowing exactly what to expect — and feeling supported every step of the way.
First-Time vs. Experienced Surrogates
If you’ve been a surrogate before, you’ve already walked this incredible path — and that experience is highly valued.
Agencies often offer higher compensation or experience bonuses for repeat surrogates, whether it’s through additional payments for each completed journey or a lump-sum thank-you that reflects your insight and commitment. Intended parents and professionals alike understand the wisdom and calm confidence you bring to the process.
What’s Included Beyond Base Pay
On top of your base compensation, you’ll also receive a range of thoughtful benefits that help support you throughout your journey — financially, physically, and emotionally. These extras bring your total compensation package to its full value, all distributed throughout your surrogacy experience.
Here’s a look at what those added benefits might include:
Travel & Lost Wages Covered
If you need to take time off work, travel for appointments, or arrange childcare while away, your intended parents will cover those costs entirely.
Life Insurance Coverage
Before your embryo transfer, a life insurance policy will be secured on your behalf — fully paid for by your intended parents.
Medical Insurance Included
Your agency will review your current health insurance early in the process. If it covers surrogacy, great! If not, your intended parents will cover 100% of a new policy. Either way, you’ll never pay out of pocket for surrogacy-related medical expenses.
Pre-Pregnancy Payments and Fourth Trimester Support
Most agencies offer monthly stipends after delivery, along with special gifts to help ease your recovery and remind you how appreciated you are.
Gifts of Appreciation
You’re doing something incredible — and we don’t take that lightly. Both your agency and intended parents will show their gratitude throughout your journey. (Hint: Keep an eye on your mailbox!)
Everyday Support Perks
Need help with childcare, housekeeping, or even pet care? Many agencies offer support for the things that keep life running smoothly.
We get it — talking about money can feel a little awkward sometimes. That’s exactly why we’re here. We’re happy to share our own experiences and help make those conversations easier, clearer, and more comfortable for you. We’ll ensure you are set up with everything you need and all the information to make informed decisions throughout your journey.
FAQs
Yes! Your intended parents will cover all necessary travel expenses — including transportation, lodging, meals, lost wages, and any appointments related to your surrogacy journey.
Yes! Surrogates who carry twins — or even triplets — receive additional compensation to reflect the added physical demands of a multiples pregnancy.
All medical expenses related to your surrogacy are covered by the intended parents — even if you already have your own health insurance.
Having a lawyer is an important part of protecting yourself during the surrogacy journey — but don’t worry, the intended parents usually cover all legal fees as part of your surrogacy agreement.
Most agencies structure payments around specific milestones in the journey. So, if a miscarriage happens, you’re typically compensated for everything up to that point. The exact details can vary by agency, since each has its own payment policies.
At this time, the IRS doesn’t specifically require a 1099 for surrogacy payments, but policies can vary depending on the agency you work with. Since tax laws also differ by state, it’s a good idea to check with a tax professional or attorney. They can guide you on whether your surrogacy earnings may be considered taxable in your situation.
Start Your Journey Today