Woman and men holding a baby in a living room (models)

Making Parenthood Possible: How To Afford Surrogacy

June 5, 2025

At Surrogacy.com, we know that choosing surrogacy as your path to parenthood is an act of love, commitment—and let's face it, financial planning. One of the most common concerns we hear from intended parents is how to afford surrogacy, especially when you're on a budget.

The truth is, surrogacy can be expensive. But with proper planning and resources, it's possible to build your family in a way that aligns with your financial reality. Below are proven strategies to help you budget and plan for your dream family.

Understand What You're Paying For

The first step is understanding where your money is going. Surrogacy involves a range of expenses, including agency fees, legal services, surrogate compensation, medical treatments, insurance, and more. Costs vary significantly depending on your location, whether you work with an agency, and your unique medical needs.

Build a Realistic Budget—And Stick to It

Once you understand the costs, it's time to create a personalized budget—factor in the expected expenses and a cushion for the unexpected. Surrogacy is a dynamic process, and having a financial buffer can provide peace of mind.

Don't forget to track your spending. Keeping organized records helps identify which costs might be eligible for tax write-offs. For example, some medical and legal expenses associated with family building may be deductible—just be sure to consult a qualified tax advisor.

Explore Financing and Fertility Loans

You don't have to pay for surrogacy all at once. Many intended parents use fertility-specific financing programs to make the cost more manageable.

Keep in mind that some agencies offer in-house financing, and reputable lenders like CapexMD and Prosper Healthcare Lending specialize in fertility loans. Personal or home equity loans may also be viable options for intended parents.

Get Creative with Fundraising and Grants

Fundraising and grants can help bridge the financial gap if you're open to sharing your story. Nonprofits like Men Having Babies offer grants for eligible families. Crowdfunding through platforms like GoFundMe is another avenue, especially when your community wants to support your journey.

We always encourage authenticity. Many intended parents are surprised by how willing loved ones are to support their dream of family building through surrogacy.

Don't Overlook Employer Benefits

Did you know your employer can play a valuable role in your surrogacy journey? More companies are now offering fertility or family-building benefits, which may cover certain surrogacy-related expenses.

Talk to your HR department about available options and consider advocating for inclusive benefits if they don't exist. You may also be able to use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for qualified medical costs.