Financial Planning for Surrogates: Managing Expenses and Expectations

Introduction

While surrogates in Canada are not paid a salary, they are reimbursed for all approved expenses. This makes financial planning an essential part of your journey. Whether it’s planning for time off work, organizing childcare, or managing medical expenses, Surrogacy4All is here to guide you. This blog will help you understand how to plan ahead and maintain peace of mind during your altruistic surrogacy journey.

Why Financial Planning Matters

• Helps ensure you’re not financially burdened during the journey
• Reduces stress about unexpected expenses
• Empowers you to advocate for timely reimbursements
• Allows you to align your family’s needs with the process

Step 1: Estimate the Timeline and Required Resources

A typical surrogacy journey can last 12–18 months. Budget for:

• Travel to fertility clinic (before and after embryo transfer)
• Maternity clothing and wellness items
• Prescription and non-prescription medication
• Time off work or reduced hours
• Increased grocery costs, supplements, and wellness care
• Potential childcare and housekeeping support

Step 2: Understand Reimbursement Categories

Covered Reimbursement Categories:

• Medical appointments and procedures
• Travel, meals, and accommodations
• Lost wages with doctor documentation
• EI maternity benefits (15 weeks if eligible)
• Childcare and home services
• Insurance premiums related to pregnancy

Surrogacy4All ensures all reimbursements meet Health Canada and AHRA standards.

Step 3: Set Up a Surrogacy Expense Tracker

• Use Surrogacy4All’s reimbursement spreadsheet template
• Log all receipts as you receive them
• Keep digital and paper backups
• Submit reimbursements weekly for faster processing

You’ll have a case manager to assist with reviews and approvals.

Step 4: Talk to Your Employer Early

• Discuss your surrogacy plans confidentially
• Clarify your eligibility for unpaid or paid leave
• Gather documentation for EI maternity application
• Plan backup staffing or coverage if needed

Step 5: Create a Contingency Plan

• Set aside savings for potential upfront costs
• Have a friend or family member ready to help with transport, errands, or child care
• Apply for financial aid programs if eligible

Surrogacy4All can connect you with financial coaches upon request.

What Surrogates Say About Budgeting

“I was surprised at how many small things added up,” says Ashley from Nova Scotia. “Meals, parking, mileage—all reimbursed, but I had to track them.” Her tip: “Save everything. Don’t wait to submit receipts. Surrogacy4All made it easy, but staying organized helped me most.”

Conclusion and Call to Action

Financial clarity is key to a smooth surrogacy experience. With Surrogacy4All, you’re supported from Day 1 with tools, education, and guidance to keep your budget in check and your journey stress-free.

 1-212-661-7177
 info@surrogacy4all.com
 https://www.surrogacy4all.com/become-a-surrogate-in-canada