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Surrogacy Financing Options For Intended Parents

by Neelam Chhagani

Surrogacy Cost Financing: Your Comprehensive Guide to Funding Your Surrogacy Journey

Surrogacy Financing Options

Surrogacy financing refers to the financial aspects of the surrogacy process, which involves a woman (the surrogate) carrying and delivering a baby for the intended parents. Surrogacy can be an expensive journey, involving various medical procedures, legal fees, and compensation for the surrogate. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of surrogacy cost financing, exploring various options to make your dreams of parenthood a reality.

If you are considering surrogacy,  you need to research and plan by keeping medical, legal, and financial parts carefully.  The path to parenthood can be a challenging one, especially for couples facing infertility and having a limited budget.

The desire to start a family is a deeply emotional journey, and we are here to guide you through the financial aspects of surrogacy.

The financial burden of surrogacy is much more in the US as compared to surrogacy abroad.  However, it is possible to receive financial help for surrogacy via surrogacy grants and loans. We strongly recommend working with financial advisors who specialize in surrogacy planning. These professionals can help you assess your financial situation, create a budget, and explore the most suitable financing options based on your unique circumstances.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost for Intended Parents?

Surrogacy can be an incredible journey, offering hope and the possibility of expanding your family when other methods have fallen short. However, the costs associated with surrogacy can be a significant barrier for many hopeful parents.

The cost of surrogacy in North America starts from $100,000 while the independent surrogacy cost can be up to $180,000 for a typical surrogacy program.

The surrogacy costs depend upon two factors – the area where the surrogacy procedure is carried out (which controls the surrogate compensation) and the medical cost of the IVF process or infertility treatments.

For example, in the USA the medical costs are relatively higher as compared to the other nations.  The same goes for gestational surrogate mother payment, which is again the highest in the USA.

How much do surrogacy cost and average cost of surrogacy

Here are some key points related to surrogacy financing and the Surrogacy Payments Plan:

  1. Cost Breakdown: The total cost of surrogacy can vary widely based on factors such as location, agency fees, medical expenses, legal fees, and compensation for the surrogate. It’s essential to understand the breakdown of costs to plan accordingly.
  2. Agency Fees: Many intended parents work with surrogacy agencies that assist in finding a suitable surrogate, managing the process, and handling legal matters. These agencies charge fees for their services, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost.
  3. Medical Expenses: Medical expenses for surrogacy and other infertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryo transfer, prenatal care, and delivery costs. These expenses can vary based on the medical needs of the intended parents and surrogate.
  4. Legal Fees: Legal fees are incurred for drafting and reviewing surrogacy agreements, establishing parental rights, and ensuring the legal aspects of the arrangement are properly addressed. These fees can vary depending on the jurisdiction and complexity of the case.
  5. Surrogate Compensation: Surrogates receive compensation for their time, effort, and the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth. The amount varies, but it typically covers the surrogate’s base fee, medical expenses, and additional compensation for potential complications.
  6. Insurance: Health insurance for the surrogate is an essential consideration. It’s important to ensure that the insurance covers prenatal care and potential complications during the pregnancy.
  7. International Gestational Surrogacy: Intended parents seeking surrogacy abroad should factor in additional costs such as travel, accommodation, translation, and potential legal complexities related to international surrogacy.
  8. Financing Options: Given the high costs involved, some intended parents explore financing options like loans, grants, and fundraising. There are organizations that provide financial assistance specifically for those pursuing surrogacy.
  9. Budgeting and Planning: It’s crucial for intended parents to create a detailed budget and financial plan before embarking on the surrogacy journey. Researching costs, exploring financing options, and seeking advice from professionals can help in making informed decisions.
  10. Legal and Financial Advice: Due to the complex legal and financial aspects of surrogacy, it’s recommended to consult with experienced attorneys and financial advisors who specialize in reproductive law and family planning.

Additional guide for infertility and surrogacy costs:

What does average surrogacy cost?

Surrogacy Costs Breakdown: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Surrogacy Costs So High And How To Manage It?

Georgia surrogacy cost

Surrogacy consultation help parents to make informed decesion about surrogacy

Gestational Surrogacy Financing Options

Below is a list of a few main financing options for surrogacy. 

 

Financing Option for Surrogacy  Description
Personal Savings If possible, use your own savings to cover surrogacy costs.
Family and Friends Consider loans or financial assistance from loved ones.
Fertility Grants Numerous organizations provide grants for fertility treatments, including surrogacy.
Surrogacy Loans Specialized loans for surrogacy can be an option.
Credit Cards Some individuals use credit cards with low interest rates for financing.
Home Equity Loans Utilize the equity in your home for a loan.
Employer Benefits Check if your employer offers any fertility-related benefits.
Medical Tourism Exploring surrogacy in countries with lower costs may be an option.
Crowdfunding Online platforms can help you raise funds for your surrogacy journey.

Let’s discuss these options in detail now.

#1. Surrogacy Grants financing programs 

Surrogacy grants are one of the options available for people who want to opt for surrogacy and are facing financial problems. These grants are granted at annual intervals by various organizations to reduce the burden of surrogacy for the intended parents.

These grants are awarded to the parents who meet the application procedure. These organizations may have different procedures and requirements to provide grants to families.

There are ways to receive financial help and surrogacy grants. Some might require specific religious practices others might want you to be a resident of a particular area for the grant.

Some of the most common surrogacy grants and surrogacy financial assistance provided for the process of surrogacy are –

  • Baby Quest Foundation – In this case, financial assistance is provided to those who are unable to afford the high cost of procedures like in vitro fertilization, egg donation, sperm donation, artificial insemination, embryo donation, egg freezing, and gestational surrogacy.
  • Family Formation Charitable Trust by AARTA – It provides grants to individual and organization who does not have enough funds for ART (assisted reproductive technologies) including gestational surrogacy.
  • Life Grants – Life Foundation provides grants of up to $10,000 for the surrogacy procedure as well as for the adoption.
  • Tinina Q Cade Foundation grant – It is a family-building grant and is provided to needy and infertile couples.
  • Journey to Parenthood – Journey to Parenthood is a charity dedicated to helping couples and individuals create families through innovative fertility treatments such as IVF, egg donation, IUI and surrogacy, and adoption.
  • Some big companies like Starbucks, Facebook, and Google offer IVF and surrogacy grants to their employees. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/starbucks-offers-in-vitro-fertilization-employees/
  • Most of the grants rely heavily on donations. So, if you know someone who is willing to donate to infertile couples or for the surrogacy procedure, contact the above-said charities and organizations.

#2. Surrogacy Loans 

Financing for surrogacy is possible through loans. Loans are one of the most important ways of granting money to infertile couples. There are various kinds of loans available in the market for infertile couples that will help them to undergo the process of surrogacy.

  • 401(k) loans – Some people choose to use their 401(k) program to tap into their retirement funds. A401(k) loan will often allow up to 50% of the account balance to be borrowed with the stipulation that it will be repaid in a certain amount of time.
  • Fertilizing Financial Loans – Other institutions offer IVF loans that, if not all of the process of surrogacy and egg donation, can be used for some. For example, Capex MD accepts applications once your doctor and/or agency provides a treatment plan and cost estimate.
  • Credit Cards – Credit cards can be used to pay the bill payments for fertility treatments but if not paid the money back in time, they will accumulate huge interest. A personalized loan is an option for some would-be parents.
  • Home Equity Loans – These are the loans that you can take on the basis of your home. But these loans require a strong credit history.
  •  Family and friends – If you are comfortable asking your friends and family members about the surrogacy cost then it is one of the best ways to finance your surrogacy.
  • Agency Financing Programmes – Some surrogacy companies require parents to pay on a fee schedule instead of paying upfront for the entire surrogacy. Many companies also provide their own funding programs and collaborations with other organizations providing loans and grants for fertility. Ask your specialist for ideas for financing and see if you can get any company loans.

#3. Fundraising

Intended parents receive financial benefits as per below fundraising options include: 

  • Ask for Donations – The intended parents can ask for donations from the people in lieu of their birthday party or the Christmas occasion.
  • Sell Something Homemade – Sell something homemade like crafts and cakes through online websites like Etsy, or you can also partner with a direct sale consultant
  • Host online fundraiser – Online fundraising sites such as YouCaring.com allow intended parents to set up free fundraisers and easily raise funds for their surrogacy plans — all without charges, deadlines, or target criteria.

How much does surrogate makes

Tips to Reduce Surrogacy Journey Costs

It is possible to create a more affordable surrogacy by keeping certain factors in mind.  Becoming parents through surrogacy is possible within your budget if you can plan well. 

  • Choose the right surrogacy consultant – Evaluate their prices, services, and fee structures carefully when selecting a surrogacy specialist. Check for hidden costs or extra expenses that are not included in the charges for the company. Make a list of professionals that you are considering and compare each offer’s costs and services.
  • Ask for the other intended parents – Reach out for tips and feedback on offering surrogacy to other planned parents and discussion groups. Parents who have been through the process may be aware of additional grants, funds, and loans, or other suggestions for raising money may be available.
  • Create a savings account – Build your budget on surrogacy savings. Set aside a special fund or surrogacy account and save for a college education, a new home, or a big vacation the same way you would.
  • Consider the insurance options – Assess the medical costs that your insurance will cover and explore your options to ensure the baby and the surrogate.

Opt for Cross-border or international surrogacy to save money

Many times, intended parents opt to look out for surrogacy outside the USA. This can be due to financial reasons or personal choices.  Over the years, international surrogacy has been rising and many affordable yet legally secure surrogacy countries are available.  This is due to lower surrogate mother compensation and affordable infertility treatment in local IVF Clinics.

Read more and learn more about surrogacy:

Best International surrogacy countries

What Are Legal Surrogacy Countries (in 2024)That Parents Should Know?

Best Countries for Surrogacy 2024; Top International Destinations

Top 4 Cheapest Countries For Surrogacy That Parents Should Know (in 2024)

When planning to do international surrogacy, the most important is to check surrogacy laws. It is important to have an explicit legal surrogacy process for parents. I think the 2nd most important factor can be the cost of surrogacy.  The reason for going out is to have affordable surrogacy or low-cost surrogacy.  So, opt out for a surrogacy agency that is transparent in the pricing and does not give surprises later on.

A few surrogacy countries which offer legally secure surrogacy at low cost are:

  1. Ukraine– Only married hetero couples are allowed
  2. Georgia– A Married hetero couple is allowed
  3. Colombia – Best for gay couples or single male 
  4. Mexico– An affordable option for all surrogacy seekers.

 

Cheapest countries for surrogacy: 

Country Regulation & Organization Who are allowed to participate Surrogacy Cost Legal Assurance
Colombia Altruistic Singles, gay couples, hetero couples Affordable

$70,000

Reliable
Mexico Altruistic Singles, gay couples, hetero couples Affordable

$70,000 to $80,000

Reliable
USA Commercial Singles, gay couples, hetero couples Costly

$150,000+

Strong
Ukraine Commercial Hetero couples Affordable

$60,000

Strong
Georgia Commercial Hetero couples Affordable

$60,000

Strong

 

Greece Altruistic Hetero couples and single women Affordable

$80,000

Strong

 

 Conclusion

When considering surrogacy cost financing, it’s essential to assess your financial situation, explore the options available, and make an informed decision that aligns with your goals. It’s also crucial to work with a reputable surrogacy agency that can guide you through the process.

Remember, surrogacy is a complex, deeply personal journey. It’s essential to approach it with both financial prudence and an open heart. Every family’s path to parenthood is unique, and with the right planning and resources, surrogacy can be a beautiful option to achieve your dreams of having a child.

At IVF Conceptions, we firmly believe that your journey to parenthood should not be hindered by financial constraints. By meticulously exploring the array of financing options available and partnering with dedicated professionals, you can navigate the financial aspects of surrogacy with confidence. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to the joy of becoming a parent.

The bottom line is the surrogacy process is not feasible for everyone due to its ridiculously high cost. But the good news is that there are many ways to fund your surrogacy. Do your bit of research and then come to a conclusion.

If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at IVF Conceptions.

IVF Process: Your Comprehensive Guide

FAQs: Surrogacy Financing Options 

How does surrogacy financing work?

Surrogacy financing involves securing funds to cover the costs of the surrogacy process. It typically includes medical procedures, legal fees, surrogate compensation, and agency charges. Funding can come from personal savings, loans, grants, or specialized financing programs.

What are the options for financing surrogacy?

Financing options for surrogacy include personal loans, home equity loans, specialized fertility financing programs, credit cards, and crowdfunding. Some fertility clinics also offer in-house financing plans.

Are there any grants or scholarships for surrogacy?

Yes, there are organizations and foundations that offer grants and scholarships to individuals pursuing surrogacy. These grants can help offset some of the expenses associated with the surrogacy journey.

Can I use a personal loan for surrogacy?

Yes, you can use a personal loan to finance your surrogacy journey. Personal loans provide flexibility in covering various expenses related to surrogacy, such as medical treatments, agency fees, and legal costs.

How does insurance factor into surrogacy financing?

Insurance can play a role in surrogacy financing. Some surrogate mothers may have health insurance that covers certain medical aspects of the process. However, it’s essential to clarify what expenses are covered and whether additional coverage is needed.

Are there any tax implications for surrogacy financing?

Surrogacy financing may have tax implications, both for surrogate mothers and intended parents. Expenses directly related to medical treatments and procedures might be tax-deductible. Consulting a tax professional is recommended to understand the specific implications of your situation.

 

If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at  IVF Conceptions. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE.

Contact us now for Free International Surrogacy Consultation!

 

Disclaimer:
All legal information on this website is intended only as a guide and is not a replacement for the opinions of licensed legal professionals/Medical professionals. Some information may have changed since the time of publication. We advise you to consult a licensed attorney/Medical expert with authority in fertility/surrogacy processes.

 

References:

  1. American Society for Reproductive Medicine – Surrogacy
  2. Resolve – The National Infertility Association
  3. Creating a Family – Fertility Grants and Scholarships
  4. FertilityIQ – Surrogacy Financing

Neelam Chhagani, MA (Counselling Psychology), PGD (Mental Health), and Holistic Infertility and Third-Party Reproduction Consultant. Member of European Fertility Society, Best Surrogacy Blogger of 2020, with 200 dedicated blogs and top contributor on Quora for Surrogacy. Highly esteemed, authoritative, and trusted professional with a 13-year experience in international surrogacy. Advocate for Secure, Legal, and Affordable International Surrogacy. Learn more: https://www.ivfconceptions.com/neelam-chhagani-surrogacy-consultant/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/neelam-chhagani-92892229/ https://www.quora.com/profile/Neelam-Chhagani

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