First-time surrogate compensation typically ranges from $55,000 to $90,000+ depending on your specific circumstances.
Receiving this financial support allows you to reach major milestones for your own family—like buying a home or paying off debt—while providing an incredible gift to intended parents.
What if your decision to help another family also secured your own family's future? Contact us to find out more today
This guide will walk you through the full breakdown of your pay, when you receive it, and how working with an agency ensures you are protected every step of the way.
The Numbers: How Much Do First-Time Surrogates Make?
Most women starting this journey can expect a total package for first-time surrogate compensation between $55,000 and $90,000+.
This isn't a flat "fee" for a pregnancy; instead, it’s a structured plan that covers your base pay as well as any pregnancy-related expenses. Your specific total depends on factors like where you live and your current income level.
At American Surrogacy, we provide a straightforward pay structure that ensures you know exactly what to expect from day one.
Understanding What is Included in Your Pay
A surrogate compensation package is built to make sure you never pay out-of-pocket for the costs of your pregnancy. This ensures your focus remains on your health and the baby rather than financial logistics.
The role of base pay
Base pay is your "take-home" profit. This is the money you can use for your own goals, such as starting a college fund or investing in your future. This amount is usually split into 10 equal monthly payments, which begin once a doctor confirms the baby’s heartbeat.
Extra support for every milestone of your pregnancy
Beyond the base, there are significant benefits of surrogacy agencies beyond base compensation. Your comprehensive payment plan includes specialized payments for different stages:
A set amount to cover local travel, vitamins, and other small costs. Bonuses for completing your medical workup and starting fertility medications. Paid for each embryo transfer procedure performed. We cover all costs if you need to travel to the fertility clinic. Extra funds to help you stay comfortable during the final stretch. This includes things like lost wages, C-section fees, or additional pay for carrying twins.
How to Get the Highest First-Time Surrogate Compensation
When comparing which surrogacy agencies offer the highest pay for first time surrogates, it is vital to look at what is actually included in the "total" number.
Some agencies include travel and medical reimbursements in their advertised total, which is money spent on the process rather than money you get to keep.
American Surrogacy is transparent about the difference between your profit and your expenses. We make sure your base pay—your true compensation—is clearly defined. Additionally, living in a "surrogacy-friendly" state where demand is high can often lead to a higher base pay rate.
How Surrogate Compensation Rates Vary by Experience Level
While first-time surrogates earn a substantial amount, women who have successfully completed a surrogacy journey before are often paid more for their expertise. Second-time surrogates typically earn between $60,000 and $110,000+.
This difference exists because experienced surrogates have a proven medical history of a healthy surrogate pregnancy. This gives intended parents extra confidence, and agencies reflect that experience through increased compensation rates for repeat journeys.
How many times can I be a surrogate?
Your health is the priority.
We follow the safety guidelines set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Generally, you can be a surrogate if you have had no more than five total births or three C-sections.
These limits are there to protect your well-being and ensure a safe pregnancy for everyone involved.
When Do Surrogates Get Paid?
We structure payments to provide consistent support throughout the entire process, starting with surrogacy support services for first-time carriers that cover early milestones.
You will receive smaller bonuses for things like medical screenings and starting medications. This starts once you sign your legal contract. Your main compensation is paid out monthly over the 10 months following the confirmation of a heartbeat.
How much do surrogates get paid monthly?
The monthly payment amount is simply your base pay divided by ten.
For example, if your base pay is $55,000, you will receive $5,500 each month during the pregnancy.
Why You Deserve a Professional Advocate for Your First Journey
You might hear about "independent" surrogacy and think it offers more freedom. However, without an agency, you are often responsible for managing your own legal contracts and ensuring you are reimbursed on time.
At American Surrogacy, your compensation is protected in a secure escrow account. This means the funds are set aside before you even start medications, ensuring you are always paid on time and in full.
We act as your buffer and advocate, so you never have to have difficult money talks with the intended parents.
Why American Surrogacy Is the Right Partner for Your First Journey
You are doing something life-changing, and we believe you deserve to be supported, protected, and compensated fairly. Our team handles the legal and financial details so you can focus on the amazing gift you’re giving. We are here to ensure your journey is as rewarding for your family as it is for the parents you are helping.
What if becoming a surrogate gave your own family more financial freedom? Reach out to us today and find out more.