If you’re looking for a surrogate agency to help you become a surrogate in California, Surrogacy.com can guide and support you. We’re experienced surrogates who will share everything we know about being a surrogate in Los Angeles, San Diego, or anywhere else in California—the good, the not-so-good, and the stuff you want to know about but are afraid to ask! Surrogacy is a serious commitment—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and it's one of the most rewarding journeys a surrogate will experience in her life. California is a great location for surrogacy, and you'll find all you need to know on this page about how you can become a surrogate in the Golden State.
Your Go-To Guide: Become a Surrogate in California
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Surrogacy in California
Think of a surrogate as the ultimate partner for those who need help building their family. Your journey is off to a great start because you've landed on Surrogacy.com. We're here to help you navigate surrogacy in California, starting with what to expect during the process, how to apply, understanding the requirements for being a surrogate, matching you with the right agency, and supporting you during your pregnancy and through the "fourth" trimester.
Get ready for the journey of a lifetime.
The Process for Surrogates in California
OK, "process" sounds like every surrogacy journey is a by-the-book experience that is the same for all surrogates. The truth is no two surrogacy journeys are alike, but they are all headed for the same incredible destination: the day you give your intended parents their baby.
Along the way, you'll reach key milestones after completing an application and ensuring you're qualified to be a surrogate. Don't worry; we've got your back throughout your journey.
Let's break down the surrogacy process into eight steps:
Application: Get the ball rolling by completing our compatibility form.
Consultation: We'll chat, get to know each other, and make sure we're all on the same page.
Matching with an agency: We’ll help you identify what you’re looking for in an agency partner and help you choose the right agency for you.
Matching with intended parents: With the agency's help, you’ll match with like-minded intended parents and help them build their family.
Medical screening and legal contracts: This is the nitty-gritty stuff that ensures everything's good to go—health-wise and legally.
Monitoring appointments and embryo transfer: You’ll be taking IVF medications to prepare your body for embryo transfer day.
Pregnancy: You're officially on baby duty—growing and nurturing that little miracle.
Delivery: It's the grand finale—when you see the smiles on the intended parents' faces as they welcome their baby.
How Much Do Surrogates Make in California?
The compensation package for surrogates varies from agency to agency, but here's what you can expect during a typical surrogacy journey:
Base pay usually ranges between $40,000 and $60,000 for each pregnancy, with additional benefits boosting the total surrogate compensation to $50,000-$70,000 or more.
Insurance paid for by intended parents that covers you and your family throughout the journey
All expenses, including travel, meals, gas, and more
Postpartum (4th trimester) benefits and support
How Do I Qualify To Become a Surrogate in California?
We're so grateful for your interest in becoming a surrogate. First, we want to make sure you meet the surrogate requirements.
Here are the details. You'll need to meet these criteria:
Have a body mass index (BMI) less than 35
Be a U.S. citizen or have a green card
Be between ages 21 and 44
Have had uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries
Have had no more than 3 C-section deliveries
Be willing to travel to a fertility clinic for the medical screening and embryo transfer
Not use illegal drugs, smoke cigarettes, or abuse alcohol
Why It's Great To Be a Surrogate in California
Surrogacy appeals to women who love being mothers and want to help others experience the joys of parenthood. In addition to that sense of pride, becoming a surrogate in California includes generous compensation and the support of others who have been in your shoes.
Women who become surrogates in California enjoy other benefits, including:
An awesome sense of fulfillment from giving the most incredible gift humanly possible to another family
Creating a bond with intended parents that can last a lifetime
An opportunity to work with local and international intended parents
Ready for the Experience of a Lifetime?
We can’t wait to meet you! Here’s what you can expect after filling out and submitting the compatibility form:
We’ll connect you with an experienced surrogate: Ask them all the questions you have, and you’ll get straight answers based on reality.
You’ll share details about your medical history and past pregnancies: We want to learn all about you and your health history.
Match with a surrogacy agency: Finding the right agency for you is a collaborative effort, so you can find the right intended parents to help.
Get ready for one of the most gratifying and fulfilling experiences you can have.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are California’s surrogacy laws friendlier than other states?
California is one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the U.S. because its laws explicitly permit compensated (paid) gestational surrogacy (this is not true in all states). This legal support makes it a popular and highly desirable place for surrogates to live.
Do surrogates in California make more than in other states?
Surrogacy pay and benefits vary more between agencies than between states. However, surrogates typically make more in California for several reasons: higher demand due to the legal environment, population, and higher cost of living. Regardless of where they live, experienced surrogates and those who carry multiples can expect higher compensation than first-timers and single pregnancies.
Do surrogates receive additional non-monetary benefits?
Each agency has its own compensation package, which often includes benefits throughout your pregnancy, such as payment for childcare, housecleaning, travel expenses, and more.
Where can I find the best surrogacy agencies in California?
To find the best surrogacy agency, whether you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, or another California city, you will need to do your research. As an experienced surrogacy support and advocacy program, Surrogacy.com can make the process much easier for you as you consider how various agencies compensate surrogates, match with intended parents, provide 4th trimester care (or not), and more. Review this blog post for in-depth information about choosing a surrogacy agency.
How does the surrogate application process work?
You can find out if you qualify by reviewing surrogacy requirements, or jump in and let us help you by filling out our compatibility form.