Becoming a surrogate is a way to change lives. You’ll help two people become parents who couldn’t do it without you, and you’ll have the opportunity to earn surrogate compensation that can improve your family’s life.
Each state is a bit different when it comes to surrogate pay, and this guide to California surrogate compensation has everything you need to know about becoming a paid surrogate in the Golden State.
If you’d like to learn more or get started on becoming a paid surrogate in California, you can reach out to us today.
How Much Do Surrogates Make in California?
Surrogates in California can make more than in most other states. Your average surrogate pay will range from $55,000 - $110,000 depending on a variety of factors. In other states, surrogate pay may be $10,000 - $15,000 less.
When thinking about how much surrogates make in California, there are a few key factors that will determine your surrogate pay:
- Experience: If you have been a surrogate before, you can earn higher surrogate compensation in California.
- Income level: Your current income level is taken into account when deciding on what your surrogate pay will be.
- Your agency: American Surrogacy is committed to providing the highest compensation possible to all of our surrogates.
Dig deeper: How to figure out your surrogate pay rate
How California Surrogate Compensation Works
Surrogate compensation is structured differently depending on the agency you work with. For our surrogates in California, pay is split up into two main categories: base pay and additional expenses.
Here’s a surrogate compensation breakdown to explain it.
Base Pay for Surrogate Pregnancy in California
You can think of base pay for surrogate pregnancy like your salary for the job of being a surrogate. This part of your total surrogate compensation is paid out in 10 monthly installments once a pregnancy is confirmed. We work with an escrow company to handle surrogate payments, which creates additional security for you.
In addition to your base pay, our surrogates receive a monthly stipend as soon as a contract has been signed and the medical process has started — including before a pregnancy is confirmed. This stipend will continue until 6-8 weeks after delivery.
Additional Compensation for California Surrogates
Diving further into our surrogate compensation breakdown, surrogates also receive additional compensation on top of base pay. These can cover things like:
- Fertility medications
- Embryo transfer costs
- Travel expenses
- Any lost wages
- Extra money for maternity clothing
- Coverage for counseling, if needed
Our total surrogate compensation package in California includes all kinds of additional surrogate compensation, and you can learn more about that by speaking with a specialist.
Dig deeper: How do surrogates get paid?
Highest Paying Surrogacy Agencies in California
Surrogates deserve competitive compensation for the incredible service they provide. If you’re seeking to be one of the highest paid surrogates in California, you can use this compensation to improve your life and your family’s life.
Women who receive the highest surrogate compensation in California have used the money they’ve earned for things like:
- Starting a college fund for their child
- Becoming a debt-free household
- Planning that once-in-a-lifetime family vacation
Surrogate compensation is part of what makes this a win-win process. The intended parents receive the greatest gift imaginable, and you are fairly rewarded for the service you provide.
If you are seeking to be one of the highest paid surrogates in California, please reach out. Comparing compensation between agencies can be confusing, and we’re here to help. We are committed to getting our surrogates the highest compensation possible for their situation. Talk to a specialist today.
Dig deeper: How to be one of the highest paid surrogates
First-Time vs. Second-Time Surrogate Compensation in California
First-time surrogate compensation vs. second-time surrogate compensation is one of the biggest factors in determining your overall surrogate pay rate. Experienced surrogates can earn more than first-time surrogates, sometimes by as much as $10,000 or more.
- First-time surrogate compensation in California typically ranges from $55,000 - $95,000.
- Second-time surrogate compensation in California can be anywhere from $65,000 - $110,000 or more.
Experience surrogate compensation, which can include third-time surrogate compensation or even fourth-time surrogate compensation, can be even higher. Another way to earn additional surrogate compensation is by carrying multiples, although this is often frowned upon because it makes the pregnancy higher risk.
We love working with repeat surrogates. If you have completed a surrogacy journey before and are looking into another surrogacy in California, we would love to support you.
Dig deeper: Experienced surrogate compensation
How to Become a Paid Surrogate in California
Becoming a surrogate for compensation in California is a wonderful way to help create a family while also improving your family’s life. You can start the process of getting paid to be a surrogate in California with a few simple steps:
Step 1: Apply to Become a Paid Surrogate in California
Use this form to connect with a surrogacy specialist today. The form is easy and can be completed in just a few minutes!
Step 2: Have an Initial Consultation
Once it’s been confirmed that you meet the qualifications for surrogacy, you’ll have an initial video call with a specialist to learn more.
Step 3: Move Forward at Your Pace
Surrogacy could be something you are ready to start today, or you may be interested in starting in six months. Our process is designed to move at your pace.
Once you start your process and match with intended parents, you can sign your contract and start getting paid to be a surrogate in California.
Dig deeper: How to become a surrogate
Common Questions about Surrogate Compensation in California
There are all kinds of questions about surrogate compensation in California, and we have the answers. Here are a few of the most common questions women ask when they’re thinking about becoming a paid surrogate:
Do you have to pay to be a surrogate mother in California?
No, you never have to pay to be a surrogate in California. Our services and any additional expenses are covered by your total surrogate compensation package.
Is there a special kind of California surrogate insurance I need?
We believe you should have the easiest, most simple surrogacy process possible. That’s why we take care of figuring out surrogate insurance. Some carriers do cover costs for a surrogate pregnancy, while others do not. If your insurance doesn’t cover surrogate pregnancies, we will secure a plan for you that does.
Do surrogates get maternity leave in California?
Women in the U.S. are entitled to maternity leave by the FMLA, including surrogate mothers. Whether or not this leave is paid will depend on your employer. If you are in a situation where you will experience lost wages due to maternity leave after surrogacy, you can factor this into your overall surrogate pay when creating the surrogacy contract.
Do surrogates have to pay taxes in California?
Yes, surrogates do have to pay taxes on their income in California. Your surrogate compensation will be paid through an escrow service, and this service will send you a 1099 form to file with the IRS during tax season.
How much do surrogates get paid monthly in California?
How much you get paid monthly as a surrogate will depend on your overall base pay for surrogacy. If your base pay is $65,000, this will be paid out in 10 equal monthly payments of $6,500.
Do surrogates in California get paid if they miscarry?
Surrogates still receive some of their surrogate compensation if they miscarry, but not all of it. You will receive all payments up until the miscarriage occurs. At this point, you and the parents can decide if you would like to try again. If you do, you can continue to receive surrogate pay once the new process begins.
It should be noted that surrogate miscarriages are rare, but do happen. This is obviously heartbreaking for everyone involved, but it does not have to be the end of the story. There is still hope when everyone decides to try again!
Why do surrogates get paid?
Surrogates quite literally change lives. They make families possible. There is no more meaningful gift than this. In the words of some intended parents, surrogates are superheroes. That is why surrogate get paid in California — because they deserve it for the amazing service they provide.