Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Posted on October 7, 2025

By Rashmi Gulati

cost of surrogacy in California

Embarking on a surrogacy journey in California is a significant financial commitment. Understanding the cost breakdown and exploring potential savings can help intended parents plan effectively.

Surrogacy Cost Breakdown in California

The total cost of surrogacy in California depends on the agency, here are some details:

  • At start: $18,000
  • On completion of surrogate match: $15,000
  • Total Fees: $33,000

Key Cost Components

1. Agency Fees

Agencies facilitate the matching process, provide medical and psychological screening, and offer legal and emotional support throughout the journey. Fees vary based on the services provided.

2. Surrogate Compensation

Compensation for surrogates includes base pay and reimbursements for expenses such as maternity clothing, lost wages, and medical costs. Experienced surrogates may command higher compensation.

3. Medical Expenses

These encompass IVF procedures, fertility medications, prenatal care, and delivery costs. It’s essential to ensure that the surrogate has comprehensive health insurance coverage.

4. Legal Fees

Legal professionals draft contracts, obtain pre-birth orders, and ensure that all legal aspects of the surrogacy are handled appropriately.

5. Insurance

Surrogate health insurance is crucial. Some intended parents opt to purchase a maternity policy if the surrogate’s existing insurance doesn’t cover surrogacy-related expenses.

6. Miscellaneous Costs

Additional expenses may include travel, accommodations, and lost wages for the surrogate during medical appointments.

Surrogate Compensation

Ways to Save on Surrogacy Costs

Choose an Experienced Surrogate  : Experienced surrogates may have shorter recovery times, reducing medical costs.

Opt for Shared Risk Programs :  Surrogacy agency offers programs where intended parents pay a flat fee, and if the cycle doesn’t result in a live birth, they receive a refund or a free cycle.

Negotiate Legal Fees : Some attorneys may offer package deals or discounts for multiple services.

Consider Insurance Options Carefully : Review surrogate health insurance policies to ensure they cover all necessary procedures, potentially saving on additional insurance costs.

Related Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Are there financing options available for surrogacy?

Ans : Yes, many agencies and financial institutions offer loans or payment plans to help intended parents manage surrogacy costs.

Q2. Can insurance cover surrogacy expenses?

Ans : Some health insurance policies may cover certain aspects of surrogacy; however, it’s essential to review the policy details and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.

Q3. How can I reduce surrogacy costs?

Ans : Opting for shared risk programs, choosing experienced surrogates, and negotiating legal fees can help reduce overall costs. Surrogacy4All understands and talks about cost.

Rashmi Gulati

Rashmi Gulati, MD, provides innovative, individualized health care that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. Since 2004 she has been the medical director at Patients Medical, where she delivers comprehensive personalized health care, treating each patient as a respected, unique individual. Through their integrative health care center in the heart of Manhattan, Dr. Gulati and her colleagues have become premier care providers serving patients locally and throughout the world.