Independent vs. Agency Surrogacy: What’s the True Cost of Each Option?
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If you’re considering surrogacy, you've probably come across the option to go independent, without an agency, versus working with an agency. With all the considerations already at hand, this question might feel overwhelming. But breaking down the pros, cons, and costs can make it easier to see which path feels right for you.
1. What Costs Are Involved in Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a rewarding but complex journey, and understanding the costs can help you plan more effectively. In the U.S., surrogacy costs typically fall into three categories:
Medical Costs: IVF procedures, prenatal care, and delivery.
Estimates: Medical costs can range from $20,000 to $40,000 for IVF procedures, medications, and prenatal care. If any complications arise or if multiple IVF cycles are required, these costs may increase.
Legal Costs: Contracts, agreements, and legal processes to ensure both parties’ rights are protected.
Estimates: Legal costs for surrogacy agreements and related matters usually range from $8,000 to $15,000, covering services like drafting and reviewing contracts and establishing parental rights.
Surrogate Compensation & Support Costs: Includes base pay, milestone-based payments (heartbeat confirmation, delivery, etc.), and reimbursements for additional needs during pregnancy.
Estimates: Surrogate compensation typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000. This varies based on experience, location, and specific agreements. Additional allowances may cover things like travel, maternity clothing, and medical needs, potentially adding $5,000 to $10,000.
When combined, the total estimated cost of surrogacy in the U.S. generally ranges from $100,000 to $150,000. This broad range reflects the variability in medical needs, surrogate compensation, and the level of agency involvement.
2. Independent Surrogacy: The Cost-Saving Option?
Many intended parents (IPs) consider going independent because it seems like a way to save. By handling the process directly with the surrogate, skipping agency fees can initially lower costs by $15,000 to $45,000, depending on the agency. However, while it might appear to save money upfront, the overall cost savings between independent and agency-supported journeys can be more complex.
Evidence-based research indicates that IPs who go independent save, on average, 10-15% on their overall journey compared to agency-supported surrogacy. This study however only showed cases that had 0 complications. Which brings to mind there’s a crucial caveat here: without an agency’s guidance, unforeseen complications can easily lead to extra expenses. Legal fees, medical costs, and logistical issues can accumulate quickly, with many independent IPs ultimately facing an additional $50,000 to $100,000 in unanticipated costs.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros of Independent Surrogacy:
Lower Initial Costs: Removing agency fees reduces the upfront costs, which can be appealing to IPs wanting to manage the journey more independently.
Direct Communication: Building a one-on-one relationship with your surrogate can lead to a strong personal connection and greater flexibility from the start, however, it is worth mentioning that this is still possible with using an agency.
Cons of Independent Surrogacy:
Hidden and Unanticipated Costs: While agency fees are bypassed, IPs often face unexpected legal, insurance, logistical, and medical costs that can add up substantially.
Increased Legal and Emotional Risks: Agencies handle pre-screenings, legal contracts, and dispute management. Without this support, IPs may lack crucial safeguards, potentially increasing the financial and emotional toll of the journey.
Time and Coordination Burdens: Managing each step yourself, from coordinating with medical providers to setting up escrow accounts, often means additional expenses for services that agencies typically handle.
Choosing the independent route requires careful planning, as independent journeys can sometimes end up costing as much as or even more than agency-supported ones.
3. Agency-Supported Surrogacy: The Value Beyond Dollars Not to Mention the Possible high savings in the long run
Choosing to work with an agency may seem pricier, but it offers comprehensive support and risk management, from finding a surrogate to post-birth arrangements. On average, agency-assisted surrogacy costs range from $100,000 to $150,000, with much of this going toward handling complex aspects that protect both you and the surrogate. Here’s what agencies typically bring to the table:
Experienced Coordination: Agencies handle the scheduling and vetting, so you don’t have to worry about things like medical clearance or background checks.
Legal and Psychological Support: Agencies often bundle in legal services, as well as psychological screenings for both IPs and surrogates to ensure readiness for the journey.
Managing Payments and Escrow: Agencies coordinate surrogate payments, covering expenses when due. This avoids awkwardness and keeps financial matters professional and stress-free.
4. Evaluating the “True” Cost
The decision between going independent or using an agency ultimately comes down to your personal comfort, budget, and what’s most valuable to you. While going independent may cost less upfront, the trade-off often includes time, added coordination, and a bit more risk. On the other hand, agency-supported surrogacy brings experienced guidance at each step, though it involves a more significant financial commitment.
5. A Note on Sources
Recent surveys from sources like the Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy (SEEDS) and American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) suggest that working with a reputable agency may provide a smoother experience, especially for those new to surrogacy. You may want to explore SEEDS and ASRM’s guidelines for choosing a path that aligns best with your needs and goals.
At Stork Connections, we understand that navigating the financial side of surrogacy can feel overwhelming. We’ve created different budget packages to meet a variety of needs because we believe that building your family shouldn’t add more stress. Take a look at our package breakdown for intended parents to see how our services work and what fits your journey best. Thank you for considering us as part of this important chapter, and please reach out if you have any questions—we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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