Many couples in California and elsewhere struggle with fertility issues. In addition, many LGBTQ couples turn to fertility assistance when they want to start a family. A surrogate is one of the options that allows couples to have a child. Of course, surrogacy is expensive, so you should know how to pay for it.
What is a surrogate?
When a couple needs assistance to have a child, surrogacy and donation agreements may come into play. Some people opt for egg or sperm donations, but others choose to have a surrogate. A surrogate is a woman who agrees to carry another person’s child and gives birth for them. The surrogate can be a close friend or family member of the future parents. Sometimes, a surrogate can be obtained through an agency.
A surrogate carries someone else’s baby for them through in vitro fertilization, or IVF. The baby might be from the hiring mother’s egg or from a donated egg.
What is the cost of surrogacy?
Once a person who wants to be a parent signs their surrogacy and donation agreements, they will have to pay for the service. Couples or individuals who choose a surrogate have to pay for the surrogate’s services, IVF expenses, legal fees and agency fees if the surrogate is obtained through an agency. Typically, a surrogate costs anywhere from $100,000 to $150,000. The price can even double if the first attempts at IVF are unsuccessful. There are often more fees if the couple or individual uses a donor egg or donor sperm.
How can you pay for surrogacy?
Due to surrogacy being so expensive, it can be challenging to pay for the service. Aspiring parents might pay through the following:
- Employee benefits and health insurance: Some employers offer surrogacy benefits. Health insurance may also cover some costs, such as egg retrieval for the mother.
- Personal savings: Many people go through their personal savings to pay for surrogacy.
- Debt: Taking out a personal loan can help pay for surrogacy.
- Retirement account: It’s possible to borrow from a retirement account to pay for surrogacy. However, this isn’t the best option.
- Grants: Sometimes, grants are available to individuals who want to use a surrogate to have a child.
- Home equity: You can borrow against your home with a home equity line of credit to pay for surrogacy.
- Friends and family: Sometimes, friends and family may be willing to help pay for surrogacy. A fundraiser can also help.
For some people, surrogacy may be the best option for having a family. You can decide if it’s right for you and plan on how to pay for your baby.