How do surrogate compensation plans vary from agency to agency?
Surrogate compensation plans can vary significantly from one surrogacy agency to another. It’s is important to talk with your agency to fully understand all parts of the compensation or the benefit package. Some agencies (ours!) allow their benefit packages to be altered to meet your needs, so reach out to your agency and ask. Some factors that play a part in the benefit package are Base Compensation, Monthly Allowance, Medical Expenses, Insurance Coverage, Escrow Services, Legal Fees, Non-Monetary Benefits. Here are some key factors that may influence how compensation plans are structured:
1. Base Compensation: This is the fixed amount paid to the surrogate for carrying the pregnancy to term. Base compensation can vary based on factors such as location, surrogate's experience, and agency policies. Base compensation can be talked about before you even start your journey; it’s usually done during the intake process. Many agencies will allow you to select your own base compensation amount – we do as we feel like only YOU can determine what amount of compensation makes sense for you and your needs.
2. Additional Payments: Surrogates generally receive additional payments for various factors, such as carrying multiples (e.g., twins or triplets), undergoing a cesarean section, or experiencing pregnancy-related complications. These payment amounts should always be listed in your benefit package at intake so you are aware of them before moving forward with an agency or intended parents.
3. Monthly Allowances: Most agencies provide monthly allowances to cover expenses related to pregnancy, such as prenatal vitamins, transportation to medical appointments, and child care that is necessary for routine appointments. Some agencies will have a maternity clothing allowance separate from the monthly allowance. It’s important to understand what the monthly allowance will and will not cover, so make sure you are communicating with you agencies about that.
4. Medical Expenses: Surrogacy agencies typically handle making certain all medical expenses associated with the pregnancy, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care are paid. Agencies will work closely the escrow company to ensure all medical bills are paid and to monitor and make certain there is enough money in the escrow to cover any upcoming medical bills.
5. Insurance Coverage: Surrogacy agencies may assist in obtaining health insurance coverage for the surrogate if she needs a surrogacy friendly policy to cover medical expenses related to the pregnancy and birth. In some cases, surrogates may already have insurance that covers surrogacy-related expenses. Finding out if you have surrogacy friendly insurance coverage should ideally be done during your intake process.
6. Escrow Services: Most agencies use escrow services to manage compensation payments. [And it’s our opinion that ALL should!] This ensures that funds are in place to be disbursed to the surrogate according to the agreed-upon schedule and that all parties are protected financially. You should receive information on this service once you are matched with intended parents through your agencies.
7. Legal Fees: Surrogacy agreements involve legal contracts between the surrogate and the intended parents. The agency will manage making certain all legal fees associated with drafting and reviewing these contracts are covered.
8. Non-Monetary Benefits: Some agencies offer non-monetary benefits to surrogates, such as counseling services, support groups, or assistance with finding local resources. This should never be left out of a benefit package with your agency.
It's essential for surrogates to thoroughly review and understand the compensation plan or benefit package offered by the agency they choose to work with. They should also consider factors beyond financial compensation, such as the agency's reputation, support services, and overall compatibility with their needs and preferences. Additionally, surrogacy laws and regulations vary by country and state, so it's crucial to work with an agency that is knowledgeable about and compliant with relevant legal requirements.