Do Surrogates Get Paid More for Twins? Answers to Your Top Compensation Questions

At Surrogacy.com, we often hear the question: "Do surrogates get paid more for twins?" The short answer is yes, but there's more to it than a simple number. If you're thinking about becoming a surrogate, it's essential to understand how compensation works, especially when carrying multiples or taking on a second (or third!) journey. 

Here are six key questions we repeatedly hear related to surrogate pay, and our expert responses to help you understand and protect your financial worth as a surrogate. 

1. Does Carrying Twins Mean More Surrogate Pay? 

Yes, you'll receive more pay if you're pregnant with twins. Carrying multiples means you may be susceptible to a higher degree of medical monitoring and a higher-risk pregnancy. That's why most agencies and intended parents offer a "multiples bonus" or increased base pay when you're carrying more than one baby. This reflects the extra care and commitment required throughout the pregnancy. 

2. Do Experienced Surrogates Earn Higher Compensation? 

If you've completed a successful surrogacy journey before, congratulations—you're considered a veteran surrogate! Your experience is incredibly valuable to intended parents and agencies, and it often comes with a higher compensation package above the typical base rate. If you've carried twins before, your expertise may be in especially high demand. 

3. When Do Surrogates Get Paid? 

Once a pregnancy is confirmed by heartbeat, surrogate compensation typically begins and is paid out in monthly installments. Monthly payments provide consistency and financial security throughout your journey. Additional payments, such as embryo transfer or maternity clothing allowances, may be paid as one-time lump sums.

4. Do You Get Maternity Leave If You Are a Surrogate? 

Surrogates typically don't receive traditional maternity leave unless covered by your employer. However, the good news is that surrogacy agreements usually include compensation for lost wages if time off is needed during pregnancy or recovery. This can consist of doctor-ordered bed rest and postpartum leave. Your contract may also cover childcare or housekeeping support if you're a stay-at-home parent. These terms are outlined to ensure you're financially protected throughout your journey. 

5. Do Surrogates Get Paid If They Miscarry? 

In the unfortunate event of a miscarriage, surrogates are typically compensated for services and milestones completed up to that point, such as embryo transfer, medications, and confirmed pregnancy stages. Every surrogacy agreement outlines these details to ensure you're protected. Your agency will guide you and provide emotional and financial support. Of course, our surrogacy sisterhood will also be by your side through all the joys and the challenges. 

6. Do You Have To Report Surrogate Income? 

In most cases, surrogate compensation is taxable income and must be reported to the IRS. However, how it's taxed can vary depending on how your contract is written and your tax situation. For added peace of mind, we always recommend working with a tax professional with experience in third-party reproduction. 

Know Your Worth, Protect Your Journey 

At Surrogacy.com, we dedicate ourselves to helping surrogates stay informed, supported, and fairly compensated—especially when carrying twins or bringing previous experience to the table. 

If you're ready to explore surrogacy or want to learn more about what compensation might look like for you, we're here to help you take your next steps with confidence. Get started by filling out our compatibility form, and we'll reach out to guide you through every stage of the surrogacy process. We can't wait to hear from you! 

To learn more, check out our Surrogacy FAQ.