You cannot remain on Medicaid while completing a compensated surrogacy with American Surrogacy because the compensation you earn will likely conflict with income eligibility limits.
However, currently receiving Medicaid does not automatically disqualify you if you have a realistic, financially sustainable plan to transition to appropriate insurance coverage.
Reach out to our team to discuss your specific financial situation and find out if you qualify to take the next step.
Why Does Medicaid Affect Whether You Can Qualify as a Surrogate?
Medicaid is a government assistance program designed for individuals and families meeting specific income requirements. When you become a surrogate, you earn a substantial income that generally pushes your household earnings above those limits.
Continuing to claim Medicaid benefits while receiving surrogacy compensation can jeopardize your legal standing and your healthcare coverage.
Because eligibility and reporting requirements vary based on your state and specific program, you cannot rely on Medicaid to cover a compensated surrogate pregnancy.
Can You Apply if You're Planning to Get Off Medicaid or Government Assistance?
You can still apply to become a surrogate if you are currently on Medicaid but have a concrete plan to transition off government assistance. American Surrogacy evaluates these situations on an individual basis.
We look for a clear, sustainable path to appropriate private or employer-sponsored insurance.
To help us make an accurate assessment, you should be completely transparent about your current benefits and any upcoming changes to your financial circumstances during the application process.
How Does Health Insurance Work During a Surrogate Pregnancy?
If you plan to obtain your own health insurance, our specialists will review the policy to determine whether it is appropriate for a surrogate pregnancy. We look closely at the specific maternity benefits and identify any potential surrogacy exclusions.
If your new policy does not provide suitable coverage, you will not be expected to absorb eligible surrogacy-related medical expenses yourself.
American Surrogacy works with your intended parents to secure a supplemental insurance plan specifically designed to cover the surrogate pregnancy.
American Surrogacy Looks at Your Financial Stability Case by Case
Having Medicaid when you apply is only one part of our financial assessment. We evaluate whether you have a realistic way to maintain private insurance and remain financially stable without depending on coverage you may lose once compensated.
For example, if you use Medicaid now but plan to enroll in your fiancé’s employer-sponsored health plan before surrogacy begins, you may still have a viable path forward.
By contrast, if you currently rely entirely on Medicaid and child support to provide for your family without alternative income or insurance options, transitioning off assistance may not be a sufficiently stable choice.
What if Your Children Have Medicaid, but You Don't?
Your own needs-based assistance is evaluated differently than benefits received by other members of your household.
If your children receive Medicaid coverage but you do not, that does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a surrogate. Household financial circumstances require an individualized review.
Rather than assuming your children's coverage rules you out, share your complete situation during pre-screening so we can give you a clear answer.
American Surrogacy's Requirements and Pre-Screening Process
Navigating insurance and financial stability is just one part of the qualification process. You must also meet specific medical and lifestyle criteria designed to protect your health.
American Surrogacy thoroughly evaluates your qualifications through our pre-screening process before you ever match with intended parents.
This includes a relevant medical-record review, a psychological evaluation, background checks and an insurance review. Identifying potential medical or financial issues early prevents you from investing unnecessary time in a process you cannot safely complete.
If You Qualify, How Much Can You Make as an American Surrogacy Surrogate?
If you can successfully transition to appropriate insurance and meet all other requirements, surrogacy provides a meaningful financial opportunity for your family. American Surrogacy currently offers $70,000 - $110,000+ in total compensation for qualified surrogates.
Base compensation generally ranges from $55,000 - $65,000+ for first-time surrogates, while experienced surrogates can earn $70,000 - $90,000+. This compensation recognizes the significant time, physical commitment and responsibilities you take on to help intended parents grow their family.
What if You Don't Qualify to Become a Surrogate?
Discovering that insurance or financial requirements prevent you from moving forward can be disappointing, but it does not diminish your intention to help a family.
If you ultimately cannot become a surrogate yourself, you can still make a life-changing impact through American Surrogacy's referral program. By connecting us with a friend or family member who successfully qualifies as a surrogate, you can earn a $5,000+ referral bonus.
Find Out Whether You Could Qualify With American Surrogacy
You do not have to guess how your current insurance or financial situation affects your eligibility. Completing our initial application allows American Surrogacy to assess your specific circumstances, especially if you are currently planning a transition off Medicaid or other assistance.
Reach out today to get a clear answer on your qualifications and learn what your next steps could look like.