How to Be One of the Highest Paid Surrogates

Becoming a surrogate is an incredibly rewarding journey, both emotionally and financially. Many aspiring surrogates wonder how they can make over $100,000+ as a surrogate.

If you’re determined to become one of the highest-paid surrogates, fill out our online form or call 1-800-875-BABY today.

In this guide, we'll explore the various ways you can maximize your compensation.

How to Become One of the Highest-Paid Surrogates

Being well-compensated as a surrogate helps secure your financial future while you make a difference for families. Whether you're motivated by helping families or the financial benefits, you deserve fair compensation for your commitment. We want to make sure you get what you’re entitled to.

Take a look at this breakdown of our surrogate compensation package.

See Our Surrogate Compensation Breakdown

Surrogate
Compensation
Breakdown

Total Compensation:

$55,000 - $110,000+

What's Included:
Base Pay
Think of base pay like your surrogate salary. This payment is deposited monthly once a pregnancy is confirmed, and it is entirely yours to use however you choose!
Pre-Pregnancy Payments:
  • Monthly Allowance
  • Start of Medications Bonus
  • Mock Cycle Payment
  • Travel Expenses
  • Signing Bonus
  • Social Work Screening Bonus
  • Medical Screening Bonus
Pregnancy Payments:
  • Start of Base Pay
  • Transfer Payment
  • Maternity Clothes
  • 3rd Trimester Self Care
  • Medical Procedures Bonus
  • C-Section Payment (if required)
  • Multiples Bonus
  • Bed Rest Coverage
Post-Pregnancy Payments:
  • Post-Pregnancy Self Care
  • Pumping Breast Milk (if agreed upon)
  • Counseling Costs (if needed)
  • Lost Wages
  • Spouse Lost Wages
Additional Benefits:
  • Personal Gifts
  • Referral Bonus
  • Life Insurance & Complications Insurance
  • Medical Insurance
  • Housekeeping Payments
  • Family Meal Payments

You can find out if you’re eligible to become one of the highest-paid surrogates using our surrogate compensation calculator.

1. Earn Second-Time Surrogate Compensation [Experience Pays Off]

Second-time surrogates often earn more in experienced surrogate compensation because they have a proven track record of successful pregnancies and are familiar with the surrogacy journey. Parents wanting to grow their family are more willing to invest in surrogates with experience because they bring a level of confidence and preparedness to the process.

Experienced surrogates can make $60,000 - $110,000+ with our surrogate compensation package.

The highest-paid surrogacy agencies typically offer competitive compensation packages for experienced surrogates. So, if you've been a surrogate before or have had successful pregnancies, your chance of earning a higher income as a surrogate is significantly increased.

2. Work With the Highest-Paying Surrogacy Agencies

The highest-paying surrogacy agencies are those organizations that prioritize fair and competitive compensation for surrogate mothers. We understand the dedication and sacrifices involved in the surrogacy journey and strive to offer surrogates compensation packages that reflect your commitment and the physical and emotional demands of the process.

While compensation rates can vary widely based on factors like location and individual circumstances, top surrogacy agencies like American Surrogacy typically offer base payments, expense reimbursements and additional compensation for specific situations, such as multiples or invasive medical procedures.

“American Surrogacy is focused on meeting surrogates where they’re at and what they're looking for in their compensation,” said Brittany, one of our surrogacy specialists. “Instead of saying, ‘This is all you’ll get, and this is the maximum we offer,’ it’s more like, ‘What are you looking for? Let’s start the compensation conversation there.’”

3. Live in a State With High Surrogate Income Levels [Location Matters]

Another factor that can influence your eligibility for becoming one of the highest-paid surrogates is your location. Surrogacy compensation can vary significantly from state to state due to differences in legal, medical and living costs. Some states offer higher base compensation to surrogates, making it easier to reach the $100,000 mark.

States like California, New York and Illinois are known for their higher surrogate compensation rates. Surrogates in these states often have a head start when it comes to earning a substantial income. However, don't be discouraged if you live in a state with lower compensation rates — there are still opportunities to maximize your earnings.

High-Earning Surrogate Compensation FAQ

How Much Do Surrogates Make for Twins?

Carrying multiples, such as twins or triplets, is another way to become one of the highest-paid surrogate mothers. You can receive an additional $5,000 per multiple. Surrogates who carry more than one baby typically receive additional compensation to cover the increased physical demands and potential medical risks associated with multiple pregnancies. This can significantly boost your overall earnings as a surrogate.

How Much Do Celebrity Surrogates Get Paid?

While you might expect celebrity surrogates to get paid more, most celebrity surrogates get paid the standard rate of the agency they work with. While this option may not be accessible to everyone, it's worth exploring if you meet the criteria and have the desire to help high-profile individuals build their families.

Are There Tax-Considerations for High-Earning Surrogates?

Yes. Tax implications vary depending on state law and how your compensation is structured in your contract. As an agency, American Surrogacy does not issue 1099s to surrogates or tax compensation directly, but this doesn't mean you're automatically exempt from tax obligations. We strongly recommend talking with both a tax specialist and your attorney to fully understand whether you need to set money aside.

Still Want to Earn Well Without These Factors? You Can!

Even if you don't have the extensive experience to earn second-time surrogate compensation, don't live in a high-income state or aren't carrying multiples, you can still earn a substantial income as a surrogate. Many intended parents want highly valued qualities like reliability and a commitment to a healthy pregnancy.

Demonstrating these qualities can make you an appealing candidate for surrogacy, even if you don't check all the boxes for becoming the highest-paid surrogate.

Become One of the Highest-Paid Surrogates Today

If you want to become one of the highest-paid surrogates, reach out to us today for guidance. We can help you navigate the process, connect you with parents and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your valuable contribution.

Ready to Speak with a Specialist?