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US Surrogacy Laws by State: The Complete 2026 Guide

If you’ve started researching surrogacy, you’ve probably already noticed: the rules change depending on where the baby is born. Surrogacy laws by state control everything from parentage orders to birth certificate timing — and there’s no federal law to standardize any of it.

One state might let you finalize parentage before delivery. Another might void your contract entirely. And for same-sex couples, single parents, and families using donor gametes, the wrong state can add months and thousands of dollars.

At Physician’s Surrogacy — the only surrogacy agency in the U.S. managed by board-certified OB/GYNs — we coordinate journeys in all approved states from our headquarters in San Diego.

This guide gives you the same state-by-state breakdown we walk through with every intended parent: which states make surrogacy straightforward, which ones come with conditions, and which ones to plan around.

Key Takeaways

Surrogacy-friendly states offer enforceable agreements, pre-birth parentage orders, and predictable court workflows across most family structures.
Conditional states can still work — but legal pathways may depend on marital status, genetic connection, or individual county court practices.
Restrictive states void surrogacy contracts or limit them so narrowly that most modern families plan a cross-state birth instead.
The birth state — not the state where you or your surrogate lives — determines which parentage laws and court processes apply.
An agency experienced in cross-state coordination can arrange births in favorable jurisdictions, even if your home state is restrictive.

What Makes a State Surrogacy-Friendly?

You’ll see the term “surrogacy-friendly” used everywhere — by agencies, attorneys, and fertility clinics. But it’s worth understanding what the label actually means in practice, because it’s more than a marketing grade.
A surrogacy-friendly state typically checks four boxes:

  • Enforceable agreements. Gestational surrogacy contracts are upheld by statute or well-established case law.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders. Intended parents’ names go on the birth certificate at delivery — no post-birth adoption required.
  • Inclusive access. Married and unmarried couples, same-sex parents, single parents, and donor-gamete families can all use the same legal pathway.
  • Statewide predictability. Court and vital-records workflows don’t change based on which county the birth happens in or which judge gets assigned.

States with conditions may check some of those boxes, but not all.

Texas, for example, has a validated gestational agreement pathway, but it’s limited to married couples. Oregon has a strong court practice but no surrogacy-specific statute, which means county-level variation is more common.

Restrictive states either void surrogacy contracts outright (like Nebraska) or limit them so narrowly that most families are better off planning a cross-state birth (like Louisiana). The act of surrogacy itself isn’t usually illegal, but without enforceable contracts or reliable parentage orders, the legal risk climbs fast.

Surrogacy-Friendly States

These states have clear statutory authorization or deep case law supporting enforceable gestational surrogacy, pre-birth parentage orders for most family structures, and predictable court processes. They’re the strongest options for both intended parents and surrogates.

State Pre-Birth Orders Who It Works For Key Strength Watch Out For
California ✅ Yes All family structures Gold standard; deepest legal + clinical infrastructure Higher cost of living may raise surrogate expenses
Colorado ✅ Yes All family structures Intent-based statute; strong for donor-gamete families Fewer agencies HQ’d here vs. California
Connecticut ✅ Yes Most family structures Modern Parentage Act; best Northeast option Compliance with statutory agreement requirements needed
Delaware ✅ Yes All family structures Statute since 2013; inclusive and well-tested Smaller surrogate pool; cross-state matching common
D.C. ✅ Yes Broad (with nexus) Statutory since 2017; inclusive framework Requires residency or birth nexus
Hawaii ✅ Yes All family structures New UPA-based statute (Act 298, Jan 2026) First year of new law; limited local precedent
Idaho ✅ Yes (validation) All family structures Gestational Agreements Act; marriage not required Validation timing must be met; newer framework
Illinois ✅ Yes Broad (expanded 2025) Gestational Surrogacy Act + 2025 Equality Act Sequencing contracts + filings early matters
Maine ✅ Yes All family structures Statutory; inclusive of LGBTQ+ families Limited local clinic infrastructure
Massachusetts ✅ Yes Most family structures Parentage Act effective Jan 2025 Newer statute; court procedures still maturing
Michigan ✅ Yes Broad ARSPA effective April 2025; gender/marriage neutral New law — confirm pathway with local attorney
Nevada ✅ Yes All family structures No residency requirement; accessible to out-of-state IPs Fewer surrogates locally; matching often cross-state
New Hampshire ✅ Yes Broad Orders often granted on pleadings alone Small state; limited surrogate availability
New Jersey ✅ Yes All family structures Gestational Carrier Agreement Act (2018) Statutory prerequisites must be met precisely
New York ✅ Yes Most family structures CPSA (2021); Surrogate’s Bill of Rights Agency licensing required; strict compliance
Oregon ✅ Yes (most cases) All family structures Strong court practice; 2025 parentage reform (SB 163) SB 163 effective 2027; until then, case law-based
Pennsylvania ✅ Yes All family structures Pre-birth orders available statewide No surrogacy-specific statute; practice-based
Rhode Island ✅ Yes Broad (1 IP must be US resident) UPA-based statute (2021); no genetic link needed US residency requirement for at least one IP
Vermont ✅ Yes All family structures Statutory; inclusive and modern Small state; limited local infrastructure
Washington ✅ Yes All family structures RCW 26.26A; no residency requirement Statutory compliance needed for pre-birth order

This table reflects legal conditions as commonly practiced in 2026. Surrogacy law changes frequently — always confirm your specific pathway with a reproductive attorney licensed in the birth state.

California

California is the benchmark for surrogacy law in the U.S. — and the most inclusive state for LGBTQ+ families, single parents, and international intended parents. Statutory protections under Cal. Fam. Code §§ 7960–7962 provide pre-birth parentage orders regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or genetic relationship.

The 1993 Johnson v. Calvert ruling established that intent governs parentage — a precedent that has kept California courts predictable for decades.

California also has the densest infrastructure of fertility clinics, reproductive attorneys, and experienced agencies in the country. Medical and legal timelines coordinate more reliably here than in most other states. The tradeoff is cost: California’s higher cost of living can push surrogate-related expenses above the national average.

If you’re looking for the best surrogacy agencies in California, start by comparing how each agency handles screening — because not all OB oversight is created equal.

Colorado

Colorado offers one of the strongest statutory surrogacy frameworks in the country, codified under Colo. Rev. Stat. § 19-4.5-101 It emphasizes intent over biology — making it a strong choice for donor-gamete families.

Pre-birth parentage orders are available for all family structures when statutory requirements are met, and the process is largely documentation-driven, so it sequences well alongside IVF clinic timelines.

Connecticut

Connecticut’s Parentage Act (C.G.S. ch. 818) provides a clear statutory foundation for gestational surrogacy, making it the most predictably friendly state in the Northeast. Pre-birth parentage orders are available for most family structures.

The statutory language reduces ambiguity around hospital paperwork and birth certificate timing. The Raftopol v. Ramey (2011) decision provided earlier parentage precedent that the Parentage Act later codified.

Delaware

Delaware’s gestational surrogacy statute (Delaware surrogacy statute) has been in place since 2013 and covers a broad range of family structures without requiring a genetic link. Pre-birth orders are commonly granted. The main consideration is surrogate availability — Delaware’s smaller population means cross-state matching is common.

District of Columbia

D.C.’s Collaborative Reproduction Amendment Act of 2016 (D.C. Law 21-255) expressly authorizes surrogacy agreements with parentage order pathways for both gestational and traditional surrogacy. The framework is inclusive, but requires a residency or birth nexus — at least one party must reside in D.C. or the birth must occur there.

Hawaii (New in 2026)

Hawaii’s Act 298 took effect January 1, 2026, modernizing the state’s parentage laws under a UPA 2017-based framework. The law expressly authorizes gestational surrogacy, provides pre-birth parentage order pathways, and uses gender-neutral language.

Broad eligibility — single parents, same-sex couples, donor-gamete families. As with any newly enacted law, confirm procedures with a local attorney while court-level familiarity develops.

Idaho

Idaho’s Gestational Agreements Act (Idaho Code § 7-1601) uses a validation-based approach: the court validates the agreement before birth (or within seven days after), and a final parentage order follows. Marriage is not required, and one or two intended parents are recognized. The key is hitting the validation filing window — miss it, and the process gets more complicated.

Illinois

Illinois has long had one of the most developed surrogacy frameworks in the country under the Gestational Surrogacy Act (750 ILCS 47). The 2025 Equality for Every Family Act expanded access further, removing the prior genetic-connection requirement — so families using donor embryos now have a clearer statutory pathway.

If you’re researching the best surrogacy agencies in Illinois, the state’s well-sequenced legal process is a major advantage. Get contracts, medical milestones, and parentage filings in order early, and the timeline stays predictable.

Maine

Maine’s Maine Parentage Act § 1932 supports enforceable gestational agreements with pre-birth parentage orders available for all family structures, including LGBTQ+ families. Clinical infrastructure is thinner than in larger states, but the legal pathway is solid for families willing to work with agencies that coordinate cross-state matching.

Massachusetts (New in 2025)

The Massachusetts Parentage Act took effect January 1, 2025, providing statutory clarity for surrogacy statewide for the first time. The law supports gestational surrogacy with a streamlined judgment of parentage and protects surrogate medical autonomy.

Court and vital-records procedures are still maturing, so work with a Massachusetts-licensed reproductive attorney to confirm filings and timelines.

Michigan (New in 2025)

Michigan went from one of the most restrictive states to a surrogacy-friendly one almost overnight. The ARSPA (MCL 722.1701) (ARSPA, effective April 2, 2025) makes surrogacy contracts enforceable, provides parentage order pathways, and is gender- and marriage-neutral.

The law requires mental health clearance and independent Michigan-licensed attorneys for both sides. The framework is strong on paper — but given its newness, confirm your pathway with a local attorney early while practitioner familiarity continues to develop.

Nevada

Nevada is a popular choice specifically because it imposes no residency requirement. Intended parents from Western states with more complicated local laws can plan a Nevada birth without living there. NRS 126.500–126.810 provides a statutory pathway with pre-birth parentage orders available regardless of genetic connection, marital status, or sexual orientation.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s statute (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. 168-B) expressly permits gestational surrogacy with clear eligibility requirements. Pre-birth and post-birth orders are typically granted on the pleadings alone — meaning no hearing is required. Small surrogate pool locally, but the legal framework is clean.

New Jersey

The Gestational Carrier Agreement Act of 2018 (N.J.S.A. 9:17-65 et seq.) provides broad-access enforceable gestational surrogacy with pre-birth orders. All family structures — single, married, LGBTQ+, donor gametes — are covered. Meet the statutory prerequisites precisely, and the process runs smoothly.

New York

New York legalized compensated gestational surrogacy in 2021 via the Child-Parent Security Act (CPSA), and 2025 amendments expanded access for out-of-state intended parents. The state has a statutory Surrogate’s Bill of Rights and requires surrogacy agencies to be licensed by the Department of Health.

Compliance risk is real — failing statutory requirements can impair your parentage pathway — so work with an attorney who knows New York’s specific filing rules. If you’re exploring the best surrogacy agencies in New York, agency licensure status should be one of your first questions.

Oregon

Oregon doesn’t have a surrogacy-specific statute yet, but courts routinely grant pre-birth parentage orders in gestational surrogacy cases — including for LGBTQ+ families and donor-gamete scenarios. The state passed SB 163 in 2025, a broad parentage reform bill that includes surrogacy provisions, but most provisions take effect January 1, 2027.

Until then, the legal framework remains case law-based. Work with an attorney who knows which counties and courts to file in.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania lacks a surrogacy-specific statute — the relevant parentage framework sits in 23 Pa.C.S. Ch. 54 — but is included in the “surrogacy-friendly” tier by most practitioner maps because pre-birth orders are available statewide for all family structures. Both parents are named on the birth certificate.

The court names both parents on the birth certificate — a practical strength rooted in consistency rather than statute.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s UPA-based statute (R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-8.1, effective 2021) permits gestational surrogacy without requiring a genetic connection. At least one intended parent must be a U.S. resident. Pre-birth orders are available through the statute’s birth order pathway.

Vermont

Vermont’s 15C V.S.A. ch. 8 expressly permits gestational surrogacy and provides modern, inclusive parentage order pathways. The state is small and the local surrogate pool is limited, but the legal environment is as clean as it gets for families willing to coordinate matching across state lines.

Washington

Washington’s UPA (RCW 26.26A) permits both compensated gestational and traditional surrogacy, with pre-birth parentage orders available regardless of marital status, genetic connection, or sexual orientation. No residency requirement. The statute is strong and well-traveled — one of the best legal environments for surrogacy in the country.

States with Conditions or Limitations

These states can work for gestational surrogacy, but the legal pathway comes with more conditions. Some limit access based on marital status or genetic connection. Others rely on case law rather than statute, creating county-level variation. Extra legal planning is typically required — and legal fees may run higher.

State Pre-Birth Orders Key Condition Who It Works For What to Plan For
Alabama Often available No surrogacy statute; practice-based Single IPs, married couples (genetic link often required) County variation; limited second-parent adoption
Alaska Limited/unclear No statute or case law; unregulated Narrow scenarios; post-birth adoption common High uncertainty; cross-state recommended
Arkansas Yes (limited) Statute requires marriage or genetic link Married couples; single genetic IPs Non-genetic/unmarried IPs may need adoption
Florida Post-birth (expedited) §742.15 requires married couple; 72-hour post-birth deadline Married couples (§742.15); broader via §63.213 Strict filing deadlines; dual pathway complexity
Georgia Often available No statute; practice-based in many counties Broad in practice (including single, non-genetic) County/judge variability; no statutory backstop
Iowa Case-dependent Often requires genetic parent Genetic IPs most likely to succeed Limited guidance; post-birth steps may be needed
Kansas Unclear No statute; unregulated Practice-dependent Unpredictable; experienced local counsel a must
Kentucky Unclear No statute; case-by-case Practice-dependent No established pathway; consider cross-state
Maryland Often available No statute; practice-based Broad in practice Judge variation; no statutory enforceability
Minnesota Statutory stay pre-birth No surrogacy statute; requires post-birth order Limited Post-birth process adds time; consult local attorney
Mississippi Practice-dependent No statute; unregulated Uncertain No reliable pathway; cross-state recommended
Missouri Practice-dependent No statute; unregulated Uncertain County variation; limited precedent
Montana Practice-dependent No statute; unregulated Uncertain Minimal case law; cross-state often recommended
New Mexico Often available Statute says “neither permitted nor prohibited” Broad in practice No explicit authorization adds residual risk
North Carolina Practice-dependent No statute; unregulated Practice-based outcomes Judge/county variability
North Dakota Often limited Often requires genetic link Genetic IPs Non-genetic IPs may need post-birth adoption
Ohio Often available Case law supportive; no statute Broad in practice No statutory backstop; county variation
Oklahoma Yes Statute (2019); married couples + residency Married couples meeting residency rules Marital and residency restrictions
South Carolina Often available No statute; practice-based Broad in practice No statutory protections; limited case law
South Dakota Often available No statute; contract drafting must avoid coercion terms Broad in practice SDCL §22-17-14 requires careful drafting
Tennessee Limited Often requires genetic connection; non-genetic IP needs adoption Genetic IPs Non-genetic parents face adoption requirement
Texas Yes (after validation) Validated pathway requires married IPs; medical-need showing Married couples Single parents, unmarried couples need cross-state plan
Utah Yes Requires married IPs and genetic connection Married couples with genetic link Non-genetic and unmarried IPs excluded from primary pathway
Virginia Yes (court-approved) Dual-model statute; two-IP marriage requirement Married couples; others with extra planning Procedurally heavier; build legal steps into timeline
West Virginia Often available Narrow statute cite; county variability Broad in practice Judge/county variation; backup plan recommended
Wisconsin Interim pre-birth + post-birth Case law based; best-interest standard applies Practice-dependent Interim orders may not finalize until post-birth
Wyoming Unclear Statute neither permits nor prohibits Very limited data High uncertainty; cross-state strongly recommended

Texas

Texas has a court-validated gestational agreement pathway under Texas Family Code §§ 160.751–160.763. It works — but only if the intended parents are married to each other, and the statute includes a medical-need showing regarding the intended mother’s inability to carry.

Single parents and unmarried couples don’t qualify for the validated pathway and typically need a cross-state arrangement. Houston and Dallas are common coordination hubs. If you’re researching the best surrogacy agencies in Texas, confirm eligibility before matching — not after.

Florida

Florida has a dual-pathway structure. §742.15 governs gestational surrogacy contracts for married commissioning couples; §63.213 provides a broader “preplanned adoption agreement” pathway that covers single persons, unmarried couples, and no-genetic-link situations.

Florida uses a post-birth affirmation model rather than true pre-birth orders — the petition must be filed within 72 hours of birth under §742.16. Miss that window, and the process gets more complicated. If you’re looking at the best surrogacy agencies in Florida, ask about their deadline management and hospital coordination.

Georgia

Georgia has no surrogacy statute — the state’s O.C.G.A. Title 19, Ch. 7 does not address surrogacy directly — but gestational surrogacy is practiced and pre-birth orders are often available, depending on the county and judge. The best surrogacy agencies in Georgia will have direct experience working through county-level court practices.

The absence of a statutory framework means there’s no enforceability backstop if something goes wrong — so legal counsel and agency selection matter more here than in statute-heavy states.

Virginia

Virginia permits surrogacy under Va. Code §§ 20-156–20-165 but is more procedurally structured than most surrogacy-friendly states. The statute includes a two-IP marriage requirement and a court-approval model. Plan the legal steps early — Virginia’s process tends to add time if approached reactively rather than proactively.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s Gestational Agreement Act (effective May 2019) provides a statutory framework, but limits the validated pathway to married couples and includes residency requirements. Pre-birth parentage orders are available within those constraints. Single parents and unmarried couples need to explore alternatives.

States with No Statute (Practice-Based)

A number of states — including Alabama, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming — have no dedicated surrogacy statute. Surrogacy happens in all of them, but outcomes depend on case law, county-level court practices, and individual judges.

Pre-birth orders may be available in some jurisdictions within these states but not others. The right attorney and the right agency become even more important in practice-based states.

Restrictive or Prohibitive States

These states either void surrogacy contracts outright, prohibit compensated surrogacy, or impose such narrow eligibility that the vast majority of intended parents are better off planning a cross-state birth.

State Restriction Pre-Birth Orders Practical Takeaway
Arizona Contracts prohibited by statute (A.R.S. § 25-218) Limited (genetic link required in practice) High friction for non-genetic IPs; cross-state recommended for most families
Indiana Contracts void (Ind. Code § 31-20-1-1) Some courts grant (varies by county) Surrogacy occurs but contracts unenforceable; same-sex couples face extra obstacles
Louisiana Narrow: married heterosexual couples, own gametes only, no compensation Not available Most modern families don’t qualify; cross-state birth is standard
Nebraska Contracts void (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 25-21,200) Not available Cross-state birth in California or Nevada is the standard path

Arizona

Arizona statute (A.R.S. § 25-218) prohibits surrogate parentage contracts. They’re statutorily unenforceable. Some courts have granted pre-birth orders in limited genetic-link scenarios after the Soos v. Superior Court decision, but the pathway is narrow and risky.

Non-genetic intended parents, same-sex couples, and families using donor gametes face the highest friction. Most families plan a cross-state birth in Nevada or California.

Indiana

Indiana declares surrogacy contracts void and unenforceable under Ind. Code § 31-20-1-1. Surrogacy itself isn’t illegal, and some Indiana courts have started granting pre-birth orders — particularly where at least one intended parent is genetically related — but outcomes vary by county and judge.

Same-sex couples face additional obstacles, with no reported cases of both members obtaining a pre-birth order. Compensated surrogacy isn’t explicitly prohibited, but compensation terms in voided contracts likely won’t be upheld if challenged.

Louisiana

Louisiana allows only a very narrow form of gestational surrogacy under La. R.S. 9:2718 et seq.: married heterosexual couples using their own egg and sperm (no donor gametes), with no compensation beyond permitted expenses. The agreement must be court-approved before embryo transfer.

The vast majority of modern family-building pathways don’t qualify. Most families from Louisiana pursue a cross-state journey — typically with a California or Nevada birth.

Nebraska

Surrogacy contracts are void and unenforceable under Nebraska Revised Statute § 25-21,200. Pre-birth parentage orders are not available. In limited scenarios involving a genetically related father, some birth certificate recognition may occur — but all other intended parents typically require post-birth adoption steps. Cross-state planning is the standard path for Nebraska families.

How to Pursue Surrogacy from a Restrictive State

Living in a restrictive state doesn’t prevent you from pursuing surrogacy. Intended parents from Nebraska, Louisiana, Indiana, Arizona, and other challenging states complete journeys every year. The key is planning around the birth state — not your home state — and building the right team before you match.

Engage a reproductive attorney in the birth state early. The attorney you need is licensed where your surrogate will give birth. They’ll confirm which parentage pathway applies to your family structure, what steps need to happen before embryo transfer, and how to prepare hospital and vital-records paperwork ahead of time.

Choose an agency with cross-state experience. Not every agency handles cross-state logistics well. Look for documented coordination between the birth state’s clinic, legal counsel, and hospital — with defined timelines and handoffs at each stage.

At Physician’s Surrogacy, we regularly coordinate cross-state arrangements for families in restrictive states, with surrogate compensation structured through escrow regardless of which state the birth occurs in.

Confirm medical readiness before matching. The biggest timeline disruptors in cross-state journeys come from late-stage screening surprises. Working with an agency that completes medical and psychological clearance before presenting a match — rather than after — dramatically reduces the risk of delays once you’ve committed.

Our physician-designed screening protocol clears surrogates before matching, so intended parents know the surrogate’s medical status from the start.

How State Law Affects Timeline and Cost

The legal environment doesn’t just determine parentage — it shapes the entire timeline. In surrogacy-friendly states, agencies can move from confirmed match to medical clearance to embryo transfer on a more predictable schedule. In conditional or restrictive states, unexpected legal steps can push that window out by months.

Most intended parents ask “how long does it take to get matched?” The better question is “how long from match to transfer?” That second window is where state law, medical readiness, and agency coordination all converge. For a full breakdown of what to budget for, see our guide to surrogacy costs.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. The state you choose shapes how much of the process feels predictable versus improvised. Pairing the right legal environment with the right agency is what turns a complex process into a coordinated one.

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Tip:
The birth state — not your home state — determines which surrogacy laws by state apply to your journey. If you live in a restrictive state, a cross-state birth in California, Nevada, or another friendly jurisdiction is a well-traveled solution. Start the legal conversation early — before matching, not after.

Start with the Right State — and the Right Medical Team

Surrogacy laws by state determine legal predictability. The right agency determines if that predictability actually translates into a smooth journey.

At Physician’s Surrogacy, intended parents are typically matched within a week of their initial consultation — with surrogates who’ve already been medically and psychologically cleared through a physician-designed screening protocol built and reviewed by in-house board-certified OB/GYNs.

That screening produces a preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. And for families from restrictive states, we have direct experience coordinating cross-state arrangements and legal timing in California and other surrogacy-friendly jurisdictions.

If you’re ready to understand how your state situation affects your timeline, schedule a consultation to review your legal pathway and get a clear picture of what comes next.

Schedule A Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best states for surrogacy in 2026? +
California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Nevada, and Washington are consistently cited as the strongest. They offer enforceable agreements, pre-birth parentage orders, and inclusive access for most family structures.
Can I pursue surrogacy if my state is restrictive? +
Yes. Many families coordinate a cross-state journey where the surrogate gives birth in a surrogacy-friendly state. An agency with cross-state experience can align legal, medical, and logistical timing for you.
Does the state where I live affect surrogacy laws? +
The birth state — not your home state — controls parentage laws and court processes. Where you live matters less than where the baby is born. That’s why cross-state arrangements are so common.
What is a pre-birth parentage order? +
A court order issued before birth that names the intended parents on the birth certificate at delivery — no post-birth adoption needed. Available in most surrogacy-friendly states.
How does state law affect surrogacy cost? +
Restrictive or conditional states often require extra legal steps, post-birth adoption, or cross-state coordination — all of which add time and cost to the journey. Surrogacy-friendly states tend to have more predictable legal expenses.

 

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Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general information about surrogacy laws and is not legal or medical advice. State laws change frequently and county-level practices may differ from statewide norms. Always consult a reproductive attorney licensed in the birth state and your medical team before making decisions about your surrogacy journey.

6 Best Surrogacy Agencies in New Jersey (2026)

Finding the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey means more than comparing compensation numbers on a spreadsheet. New Jersey’s 2018 Gestational Carrier Agreement Act created one of the cleanest statutory frameworks in the country.

Enforceable contracts, standard pre-birth orders, coverage for all family structures — the law has real teeth. But it only protects you if the agency behind your journey is doing its job properly.

That’s where the real differences show up. Some agencies handle the paperwork. Others build a system around your safety. In a state where gestational surrogacy is fully legal and growing fast, the choice of agency determines how quickly you match, how well your surrogate is screened, and if you’ll hit complications alone or with a clinical team behind you.

This guide covers six of the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey in 2026 — what they offer, who they’re best for, and how they compare on the factors that matter most to both gestational surrogacy participants on both sides.

Key Takeaways

New Jersey’s Gestational Carrier Agreement Act (N.J.S.A. 9:17-60), effective May 30, 2018, makes gestational surrogacy fully legal with enforceable contracts and standard pre-birth orders for all family structures.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency where practicing OB/GYNs oversee surrogate screening, clinical communications, and medical decision-making — matching NJ surrogates in about one week vs. the industry standard of 6–12 months.
New Jersey surrogates can earn compensation starting at $60,000+, with packages varying by agency, experience, and insurance status. The GCAA requires compensation to cover reasonable living expenses, and most national agencies add structured pay on top.
The state mandates independent legal counsel for both parties, medical and psychological screening before contract execution, and separate attorney affidavits — requirements that a good agency handles for you end-to-end.
Traditional surrogacy is excluded from GCAA protections — only gestational surrogacy qualifies for enforceable agreements and pre-birth orders in New Jersey.

6 Best Surrogacy Agencies in New Jersey (2026)

Here is a quick comparison of the top-rated New Jersey surrogacy agencies, followed by detailed breakdowns of each.

Agency HQ / NJ Presence Surrogate Pay (NJ) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? NJ-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA — serves NJ Starts at $60,000+ $140,000–$200,000+ ~1 week avg Yes — OB/GYN-led No (national)
Reproductive Possibilities Montvale, NJ (HQ) Not published publicly Not published publicly Not published No Yes (NJ-based)
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA — serves NJ Up to $75,000+ ~$157,000–$189,500 Not published No No (national)
ConceiveAbilities Chicago, IL — Jersey City NJ Up to $75,000+ Not published publicly Not published No No (national)
Family Inceptions National — serves NJ Not published publicly Not published publicly Not published No No (national)
American Surrogacy Overland Park, KS — serves NJ $55,000 base; up to $110,000+ $187,500–$202,500+ 1–4 months No No (national)

* Compensation and pricing figures reflect each agency’s publicly published ranges as of 2026. Actual amounts vary by experience, insurance, and program. Confirm current figures directly with each agency before applying.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (National — Accepts NJ Surrogates)

Quick Facts

Physician’s Surrogacy is the nation’s only OB-managed surrogacy agency, headquartered in San Diego, California. The agency accepts surrogates from New Jersey, with compensation starting at $60,000+.

Onsite board-certified OB/GYNs and an advisory board of specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatal care, and OB/GYNs oversee every aspect of the surrogate’s medical journey from screening through post-delivery support.

Physician’s Surrogacy works with intended parents and surrogates across the country — and New Jersey’s strong GCAA framework makes it one of the cleaner states for a smooth, physician-monitored journey. When a surrogate in New Jersey works with Physician’s Surrogacy, she enters a program built around one principle: medical oversight should never be optional.

Only 8% of surrogate candidates pass the agency’s physician-designed screening protocol — a rate that accounts directly for the preterm delivery rate sitting 50% below the national average. That figure isn’t a coincidence. It’s the result of a rigorous process that other agencies, run by non-medical staff, simply can’t replicate.

The $1,250 pre-screening completion bonus is the only publicly named bonus and is paid before pregnancy begins. No agency fees are charged to intended parents until a match is confirmed.

For Intended Parents

  • Flat-Rate Surrogacy program starting at $140,000–$200,000+, with transparent pricing and no agency fees until match is confirmed
  • Onsite OB/GYNs monitor clinical communications and can consult peer-to-peer with the surrogate’s managing OB if complications arise
  • Over 1,500 babies born through the program, with a preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average
  • Optional OB-ordered antenatal testing — NIPT, NT Sonogram, AFP Quad Screen, Fetal Echocardiogram — not available through most agencies
  • 24/7 multilingual coordinator access, including WeChat support for international intended parents

For Surrogates

  • Compensation starts at $60,000+ for first-time NJ surrogates; experienced surrogates can earn more
  • $1,250 pre-screening completion bonus paid before pregnancy begins — the only publicly named bonus
  • Physician-designed screening protocol that exceeds ASRM guidelines, protecting surrogates as much as it protects IPs
  • 3–6 months of post-delivery support, with 24/7 coordinator access throughout the journey
  • Medically Cleared Program available through partner centers, eliminating the 3–5 week post-match screening wait

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy matches intended parents with pre-screened surrogates in an average of one week — compared to the industry standard of 6–12 months. This speed comes from the largest active pre-screened surrogate pool in the U.S., with 10,000+ candidates screened annually and only 8% passing. From match to live birth, the fastest journey runs approximately 14 months.

For a surrogate who wants physician-level oversight throughout her pregnancy, or for intended parents who’ve already spent years on a fertility journey, the difference between an OB-managed agency and a standard coordinator-run program is not a minor detail. It’s the whole question.

Best For: Intended parents who want medical-grade safety and faster matching; NJ surrogates who want physician oversight from application through delivery.

Ready to Start Your New Jersey Surrogacy Journey?

New Jersey’s legal framework is built for surrogacy to work. The right agency makes the difference between a journey that runs on schedule and one that stalls at every stage.

2. Reproductive Possibilities (NJ-Based)

Reproductive Possibilities is headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, making it one of the very few surrogacy agencies with its roots actually in the Garden State. The agency was founded by Melissa Brisman, a Harvard Law graduate and intended parent through surrogacy herself — a background that gives the team genuine firsthand understanding of what IPs experience.

With more than 20 years of service and over 2,500 babies born, Reproductive Possibilities has built a deep network across the NJ tri-state area, including strong relationships with RMA NJ and other top-rated fertility clinics. For IPs who want a surrogate within driving distance, or for NJ-based surrogates who prefer local coordination, this local footprint is a real advantage.

The agency works exclusively with gestational surrogacy and serves domestic and international clients, heterosexual couples, LGBTQ+ families, and single parents. Specialized programs include BYOS (Bring Your Own Surrogate) and Encore Journey for experienced surrogates.

For Intended Parents

  • NJ-based agency with 20+ years in the tri-state market and strong local fertility clinic partnerships
  • Founder Melissa Brisman is a parent through surrogacy herself — personal experience drives the agency’s IP advocacy
  • Personalized one-on-one support; smaller case load than large nationals
  • Serves international IPs with experience supporting cross-border legal requirements
  • Total IP costs provided on a case-by-case basis — call (201) 505-0078 for an estimate

For Surrogates

  • Local NJ agency — GC coordinators based in the tri-state area
  • Nurse on staff who works directly with surrogates on records and documentation from the first interview
  • Compensation not publicly listed — discuss during initial consultation
  • Customizable programs including Encore Journey for experienced surrogates

Reproductive Possibilities doesn’t publish compensation or IP pricing online, so getting a quote requires a consultation. That personalized approach suits some clients well; others may prefer agencies with transparent public pricing for upfront comparison.

Best For: NJ-based intended parents and surrogates who want a locally rooted agency with decades of tri-state experience and a founder who has lived the IP journey.

3. Circle Surrogacy (National — Strong NJ Presence)

Circle Surrogacy has been operating for over 30 years, giving it one of the longest track records in the industry. The agency has a dedicated Connecticut surrogacy page and serves New Jersey surrogates and IPs throughout the northeastern corridor, with experience matching across Newark, Trenton, Hoboken, and the wider Garden State.

Circle publishes competitive compensation figures — surrogates can earn up to $75,000+ including compensation and benefits — and backs its surrogates with the Journey Protection Pay Promise, guaranteeing payment through 100% upfront-funded escrow accounts. The agency’s screening passes roughly 4% of applicants, which it describes as its top-tier surrogate pool.

For intended parents, Circle offers a fixed-cost Journey Protection Program at $189,500, covering agency fees, medical and legal costs, and surrogate compensation with no surprise invoices. A surrogacy-only journey runs around $157,000.

For Intended Parents

  • 30+ years of experience with thousands of successful surrogacy journeys
  • Fixed-cost Journey Protection Program at $189,500 — no surprise costs mid-journey
  • Strong LGBTQ+ focus and dedicated programs for gay couples, single parents, and international IPs
  • Circle takes on liability for all surrogate-related medical bills during the journey
  • In-house egg donor database available for IPs who need donor eggs alongside surrogacy

For Surrogates

  • Up to $75,000+ total compensation including base pay and benefits
  • Journey Protection Pay Promise — 100% upfront escrow guarantees you’re always paid on time
  • All expenses covered: travel, meals, maternity clothing, housekeeping, breast milk pumping stipend
  • Postpartum support through the 4th trimester

Circle’s strength is its decades-long track record and financial security model. What it doesn’t offer is physician-led clinical oversight — the medical side is managed by the IVF clinic, not an in-house medical team. For IPs who want a physician monitoring the surrogate’s pregnancy between clinic appointments, that’s a gap worth noting.

Best For: Intended parents who want a long-established national agency with fixed-cost pricing and strong financial protections; NJ surrogates who value guaranteed payment security.

4. ConceiveAbilities (National — Active in NJ/Jersey City)

ConceiveAbilities has a dedicated presence in the Jersey City area, where the agency actively recruits surrogates and supports intended parents pursuing surrogacy in the NYC metro corridor.

The agency publishes strong surrogate metrics: 95% of their surrogates are medically cleared by IVF clinics, and 56% complete a repeat journey — a repeat rate that reflects surrogate satisfaction with the experience.

Surrogate compensation through ConceiveAbilities reaches up to $75,000+ including base pay and benefits, with the agency’s All-In Surrogate Care and Compensation Program covering location, insurance, wage replenishment, and qualifications in the base figure. Matching is based on personality, values, and expectations — not a simple waitlist system.

ConceiveAbilities also bundles egg donation services, making it a practical option for IPs who need both a gestational carrier and an egg donor under one program roof. IP total cost is not published publicly — prospective parents are directed to contact the acceptance team for a full quote.

For Intended Parents

  • Combined surrogacy and egg donation programs for IPs who need both services
  • Surrogates are matched based on values and expectations, not a waitlist
  • 95% medical clearance rate — one of the highest published figures among national agencies
  • Active NJ/Jersey City presence with understanding of the local fertility clinic network
  • 20+ years of experience across hundreds of surrogacy journeys

For Surrogates

  • Up to $75,000+ compensation through the All-In Surrogate Care program
  • 56% repeat journey rate — a strong indicator of surrogate satisfaction
  • Mental health professionals on staff, dedicated support through full postpartum recovery
  • Community features: Surrogacy Learning Center, relationship-building support

ConceiveAbilities’ NJ presence is concentrated in the Jersey City/Newark metro area. Surrogates in other parts of the state may find the coverage thinner. IP cost transparency is also limited online — a consultation is required for full pricing.

Best For: NJ/NYC-area surrogates and intended parents who want combined surrogacy-plus-egg-donation coordination and a high surrogate medical clearance rate.

5. Family Inceptions (National — Serves NJ)

Family Inceptions earns consistent high marks in surrogate reviews — a pattern that matters when you’re choosing an agency for a multi-year journey. The agency serves New Jersey surrogates and intended parents as part of its national program.

Coordinators are known for treating surrogates as people rather than cases. The review pattern across Google and Trustindex is notably strong on surrogate experience, responsiveness during difficult moments like broken matches, and coordinator accessibility.

The agency screens roughly 5% of surrogate applicants through its full process. Requirements include age 21–40, at least one prior pregnancy, no current federal aid, and clear nicotine and drug screening.

Family Inceptions is transparent about the fact that compensation alone is not a reliable basis for agency selection — their guidance emphasizes total support package over headline numbers.

Family Inceptions does not publish compensation ranges or IP total costs publicly. Their NJ page includes legal resources and state-specific eligibility guidance, and the team coordinates with New Jersey-licensed attorneys for contracts and pre-birth orders.

For Intended Parents

  • Strong coordinator responsiveness track record, including during match disruptions
  • Works with NJ-licensed surrogacy attorneys for contracts and pre-birth order filings
  • Serves LGBTQ+ couples, single parents, and domestic and international IPs
  • Involvement level is customizable — the agency adapts its engagement to your preferences
  • Legal resources and NJ-specific guidance available before and during the contracting phase

For Surrogates

  • Coordinator-driven culture with strong surrogate advocacy, including during re-match situations
  • Honest about compensation expectations — guidance discourages choosing an agency based solely on pay
  • NJ state-specific eligibility information and surrogate qualification resources on the site
  • Community support for surrogates completing multiple journeys

Family Inceptions’ lack of published pricing makes upfront comparison harder. Their strength is relationship quality — and for surrogates who’ve had poor experiences elsewhere, that’s often the deciding factor.

Best For: NJ surrogates who prioritize coordinator quality and surrogate advocacy; intended parents who want a agency with a documented track record of handling match disruptions with care.

6. American Surrogacy (National — NJ Legal Specialist)

American Surrogacy operates nationally and has invested heavily in New Jersey-specific legal content. It’s one of the more transparent agencies when it comes to explaining the GCAA’s requirements, what they mean in practice, and how they affect the contracting timeline.

The agency offers three structured programs — Limited Risk, Foundation, and Independent — at published price points, giving intended parents a clear cost framework before picking up the phone.

Surrogate compensation through American Surrogacy averages $55,000 for NJ surrogates, with total packages ranging from $55,000 to $110,000+ after reimbursements.

Most intended parents are matched in 1–4 months. The Limited Risk Program ($202,500+) provides financial protections against failed embryo transfers, rematches, and early complications — a structure similar to what other agencies call a “guarantee program.”

American Surrogacy explicitly acknowledges New Jersey’s position on reproductive rights — the state’s laws support surrogate autonomy on medical decisions without the restrictions found in other states, and contracts can address termination decisions within GCAA protections. For IPs whose views on these issues don’t align with NJ law, the agency offers matches in other states.

For Intended Parents

  • Three published program tiers ($24,000–$202,500+) with transparent pricing and clear scope of coverage
  • Limited Risk Program covers financial setbacks including failed transfers and rematches
  • Strong NJ legal expertise and published GCAA compliance guides for intended parents
  • Typical match timeline of 1–4 months
  • All compensation held and disbursed through escrow accounts

For Surrogates

  • $55,000 flat pay for NJ first-time surrogates; total packages up to $110,000+ with experience
  • Independent legal counsel arranged per GCAA requirements
  • Dedicated NJ legal resource guides available before you apply
  • Vets state law compatibility between surrogate and intended parent before matching

American Surrogacy’s journey timelines run 1–4 months to match — considerably longer than Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average. For intended parents in a hurry, that gap is meaningful. The trade-off is published, tiered pricing that makes cost comparison easier from day one.

Best For: Intended parents who want transparent tiered pricing and financial risk protection; NJ surrogates who want thorough legal guidance on their GCAA rights before committing.

New Jersey Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

New Jersey’s Gestational Carrier Agreement Act (N.J.S.A. 9:17-60 to 9:17-74), signed into law on May 30, 2018, is one of the most complete gestational surrogacy statutes in the country. Before the act, compensated surrogacy was unenforceable in New Jersey — the 2018 law changed that entirely.

This is why so many of the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey specifically highlight their GCAA compliance and legal coordination capabilities. Here’s what the statute actually requires:

  • Written contract required before any medical procedures: The gestational carrier agreement must be in writing and executed by all parties — including any spouse or domestic partner of the surrogate — before embryo transfer or any other medical steps begin. Source: N.J.S.A. 9:17-65
  • Independent legal counsel is mandatory for both parties: The surrogate and the intended parents must each be represented by separate attorneys, and each attorney must provide a signed affidavit of representation. This requirement protects both sides — and it means your agency must coordinate dual legal counsel as a baseline. Source: N.J.S.A. 9:17-65
  • Psychological screening required before contract execution: Both the gestational carrier and the intended parent(s) must complete a psychological evaluation before the agreement is signed. Medical screening of the surrogate is also required prior to contract execution. Source: Greenspoon Marder NJ surrogacy
  • Pre-birth orders are standard and granted in all cases: Once the surrogate becomes pregnant under a valid GCAA-compliant agreement, intended parents file a complaint for a pre-birth parentage order with the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part. The order is issued before birth. Source: SurrogateFirst NJ Law Guide
  • All family structures covered — including single parents and same-sex couples: The GCAA explicitly includes single intended parents, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and parties using donor gametes. No genetic connection to the child is required for a pre-birth order. Source: GCAA full statute text
  • Traditional surrogacy is excluded from GCAA protections: The statute applies only to gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate has no genetic link to the child. Traditional surrogacy contracts are unenforceable in New Jersey — intended parents would need a post-birth adoption instead. Source: SurrogateFirst NJ Law Guide

New Jersey also has a noteworthy IVF insurance mandate. Many employers and insurers in the state are required to cover IVF under state law — a factor that can meaningfully reduce medical costs for intended parents using NJ-based fertility clinics.

Tip:
Under the GCAA, the parentage complaint can be filed in the county where birth is anticipated, where the intended parents reside, or where the surrogate resides. Some attorneys recommend filing in Bergen, Hudson, or Mercer counties for predictable timelines — ask your NJ reproductive attorney which venue makes sense for your situation before signing the gestational carrier agreement.

What to Look for in a New Jersey Surrogacy Agency

New Jersey’s legal protections are real — but they don’t evaluate agencies for you. When comparing the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey, these five factors separate the stronger programs from the rest:

  • Medical oversight beyond the fertility clinic. Most agencies hand off clinical responsibility entirely to the IVF center. Ask specifically who monitors the surrogate’s health between appointments and what happens if a complication arises. Only one agency in this list has onsite OB/GYNs doing this work — and that distinction shows up in outcomes data like the preterm delivery rate.
  • GCAA compliance built into the process. The law requires dual independent legal counsel, pre-contract screening, and specific affidavits. Your agency should be coordinating all of this — not leaving you to find attorneys on your own after matching.
  • Transparent compensation and pricing. NJ surrogacy costs can range from $120,000 to well over $200,000. Agencies that publish tiered pricing with clear scope of coverage are easier to compare and plan around. See our guide to surrogacy costs for a full breakdown of what’s typically included.
  • Escrow management and payment protection. Under GCAA, reasonable compensation is legally protected — but only if funds are held in escrow. Confirm the agency uses a compliant escrow structure before you sign anything. Review how surrogacy contracts handle this.
  • Demonstrated surrogate support. Post-delivery support, coordinator responsiveness, and repeat surrogate rates tell you more about what the journey actually feels like than any marketing page. Surrogacy sits at the intersection of modern medicine and profound human generosity — an agency that treats surrogates accordingly will have the reviews to show it.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

Each agency in this guide was evaluated against six criteria grounded in what New Jersey surrogates and intended parents actually need. These are the same standards we apply to all the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey lists we publish.

1

Medical Oversight

Does the agency employ or contract onsite physicians? Who monitors the surrogate’s health between IVF appointments, and what is the escalation pathway if complications arise?

2

GCAA Compliance

Does the agency coordinate dual independent legal counsel, pre-contract screening, attorney affidavits, and parentage filings per New Jersey’s specific statutory requirements?

3

Screening Rigor

What is the agency’s surrogate acceptance rate, and who designs the screening protocol? Agencies with physician-designed screening consistently produce better medical outcomes for both surrogate and child.

4

Match Timeline

How long does matching take, and what drives that timeline? Agencies with pre-screened surrogate pools match in days to weeks; agencies that screen post-match add months to every journey.

5

Pricing Transparency

Does the agency publish total IP cost ranges, surrogate pay floors, and what is included vs. excluded from each program? Opaque pricing leaves intended parents financially exposed mid-journey.

6

Surrogate Support

What do surrogate reviews actually say about coordinator responsiveness, re-match handling, and post-delivery support? Repeat surrogate rates are one of the most honest proxies for surrogate experience quality.

 

Physician’s Surrogacy publishes this guide and is one of the agencies listed. Rankings and descriptions for other agencies are based on publicly available information current as of 2026.

Starting Your New Jersey Surrogacy Path

New Jersey is a genuinely good state for surrogacy — the GCAA is clear, the legal community is experienced, and the tri-state corridor gives access to some of the country’s strongest fertility clinics.

When evaluating the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey, most families find that legal compliance is table stakes — the real differentiator is clinical quality.

For NJ surrogates considering this path, our best states to surrogate guide walks through how NJ compares across safety, compensation, and legal protections.

The question isn’t if New Jersey supports surrogacy. It does. The question is which agency will get you through this journey with the medical rigor, legal coordination, and surrogate care that the process deserves.

For IPs, that means asking every agency you’re considering: who is actually watching the medical side? For surrogates, it means asking: who is actually in my corner when things get difficult?

For more on how surrogacy law varies across states — and how it affects real journeys — see our full guide to surrogacy laws by state. And if you’re also researching adjacent markets, both our New York surrogacy agencies guide and our Connecticut surrogacy agencies guide cover the tri-state corridor in full.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. New Jersey’s 2018 statute made that possible with real legal teeth. The agency you choose determines how that possibility plays out in practice.

16 state guides live

Physician’s Surrogacy state guide map Washington — One of the strongest surrogacy statutes in the nation. Click to read the guide. Oregon — Favorable case-law surrogacy state with strong protections. Click to read the guide. California — The most surrogate-friendly state in the US. Click to read the guide. Nevada — Highly favorable laws and no state income tax. Click to read the guide. ID MT WY Colorado — Inclusive 2021 statute (HB 21-1022). Click to read the guide. UT AZ NM ND SD NE KS OK Texas — Large surrogate pool and IP-friendly courts. Click to read the guide. MN IA MO AR LA WI Michigan — Key Midwest hub with evolving surrogacy law. Click to read the guide. Illinois — One of the most favorable states in the Midwest. Click to read the guide. IN OH KY TN MS AL Georgia — Growing surrogate-friendly legal landscape. Click to read the guide. Florida — A popular destination for gestational surrogacy. Click to read the guide. SC NC VA WV PA New York — Fully legal and protected since the 2021 CPLSA. Click to read the guide. MD DE New Jersey — Statutory surrogacy protections since 2018 GCAA. Click to read the guide. Connecticut — Strong legal protections for all parties. Click to read the guide. RI MA VT NH ME AK HI DC WA OR CA NV CO TX MI IL GA FL NY NJ CT

Click any teal state to read that guide.


Your New Jersey Surrogacy Path

Start Your NJ Journey with OB-Led Care

New Jersey surrogates earn $60,000+ with Physician’s Surrogacy — and intended parents get access to the only OB-managed program in the country. Ready to apply or just starting your research, this is where that next step begins.

Physician’s Surrogacy matches intended parents in an average of one week — compared to the industry standard of 6–12 months — with a preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gestational surrogacy fully legal in New Jersey? +
Yes. The Gestational Carrier Agreement Act (N.J.S.A. 9:17-60), effective May 30, 2018, makes compensated gestational surrogacy fully legal and enforceable in New Jersey. Pre-birth orders are granted as standard practice. Traditional surrogacy is excluded from the statute’s protections.
How much do surrogates earn in New Jersey? +
Compensation varies by agency and experience. Physician’s Surrogacy starts at $60,000+ for first-time NJ surrogates. Circle Surrogacy and ConceiveAbilities publish packages up to $75,000+. American Surrogacy lists a $55,000 base with total packages up to $110,000+ for experienced surrogates.
Do both the surrogate and intended parents need their own attorneys in NJ? +
Yes. The GCAA requires independent legal counsel for both parties, and each attorney must file a signed affidavit of representation before the contract is executed. A reputable agency will coordinate both sides of this requirement as part of their standard process.
Can single parents and LGBTQ+ couples pursue surrogacy in New Jersey? +
Yes. The GCAA explicitly covers single intended parents, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and parties using donor gametes. No genetic connection to the child is required for a pre-birth order. New Jersey also permits second-parent adoption where a pre-birth order is not obtained.
How long does a surrogacy journey take in New Jersey? +
Most NJ surrogacy journeys run 12–18 months from match to birth at traditional agencies. Physician’s Surrogacy’s fastest journeys run approximately 14 months from match to live birth, driven by a pre-screened surrogate pool and parallel processing of matching, medical records, and IVF coordination. This is one reason Physician’s Surrogacy consistently ranks among the best surrogacy agencies in New Jersey for timeline-sensitive intended parents.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Always consult your prescribing physician and your medical team regarding medication management and pregnancy safety.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Michigan (2026)

Michigan is one of the newest surrogacy-friendly states in the country. The Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act (ARSPA) — also called the Michigan Family Protection Act — took effect on April 2, 2025, reversing decades of criminal and civil bans on compensated surrogacy.

Before that date, Michigan was the only state in the nation to both criminalize and ban compensated surrogacy contracts. The 1988 Surrogate Parenting Act made them void, unenforceable, and subject to criminal penalty. The 2024 law reversed that entirely.

Michigan now permits compensated gestational surrogacy, enforceable surrogacy agreements, and pre-birth parentage orders — no court hearing required. Physician’s Surrogacy, the nation’s only OB/GYN-managed surrogacy agency, actively serves Michigan surrogates and intended parents. Michigan is also consistently listed among the best states for surrogacy in the U.S.

Key Takeaways

Michigan’s Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act (Act 24 of 2024, MCL 722.1901 et seq.) took effect April 2, 2025 — ending decades of criminal and civil bans on compensated surrogacy.
Pre-birth parentage orders are available to all family structures — no court hearing required. The order takes effect at birth.
Michigan has a flexible nexus rule: the law applies if at least one party is a Michigan resident, the birth occurs in Michigan, or the assisted reproduction procedure occurs in Michigan.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list led by practicing OB/GYNs — producing preterm birth rates 50% below the national average through a physician-designed screening protocol.
Michigan has no state licensing requirement for surrogacy agencies. Vetting medical oversight, legal experience, and financial safeguards is entirely the responsibility of the families and surrogates involved.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Michigan

The table below compares all seven agencies at a glance. Surrogate pay reflects published first-time surrogate figures. Intended parent (IP) totals cover the full journey — agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance. All figures are as of 2026.

Agency HQ / MI Presence Surrogate Pay (MI) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? MI-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA / National $60,000–$75,000+ $140,000–$170,000+ (Flat-Rate) ~1 week avg. ✅ Yes — OB/GYNs No (national)
Hope Surrogacy Royal Oak, MI $60,000–$70,000 (surrogate-set) Not published Not published No Yes
Gift of Life Surrogacy Bloomfield Hills, MI + Sylvania, OH $60,000–$70,000 Not published (full) Not published Physician on staff Yes (Bloomfield Hills)
Golden Surrogacy National / Active MI $70,000 minimum Not published Not published No No
Fertility Source Companies National / MI clinic network $65,000 base $160,000–$175,000 Not published No No
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA / Serves MI Not published (MI) Not published Not published No No
American Surrogacy Olathe, KS / Serves MI $55,000–$110,000+ (MI) $150,000–$179,000+ 1–4 months No No

* IP total cost estimates include agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical/in vitro fertilization (IVF), legal, escrow, and insurance. Figures excluding IVF clinic costs are noted. Exact totals vary by surrogate experience, insurance, and transfer cycles.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (National — OB/GYN-Managed)

Quick Facts

Physician’s Surrogacy is headquartered in San Diego, CA and serves Michigan families nationally. Michigan surrogates earn a flat-rate package starting at $60,000–$75,000+. Intended parents pay $140,000–$170,000+ through the Flat-Rate Surrogacy program, with no agency fees owed until a match is confirmed. Average match time is one week — versus the 6–12 month industry standard.

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by practicing OB/GYNs.

That clinical structure produces measurable results. Preterm birth rates run 50% below the national average — driven by a physician-designed screening protocol that accepts roughly 8% of all applicants.

Michigan surrogates earn a flat-rate package starting at $60,000–$75,000+. They also receive a $1,250 screening bonus before pregnancy confirmation — paid before most agencies offer anything.

Intended parents pay one all-in price starting at $140,000–$170,000+. No agency fees are owed until a match is confirmed.

Review surrogate compensation details or surrogacy costs for intended parents.

For Intended Parents

  • OB/GYN oversight throughout. Practicing physicians lead surrogate screening and coordinate directly with Michigan’s delivering OB. No coordinator-only model.
  • Flat-Rate Surrogacy program. One transparent price starting at $140,000–$170,000+. No agency fees until match confirmed.
  • One-week average match time. No wait list. Immediate availability for Michigan families.
  • Medically Cleared Program. Michigan surrogates who complete pre-match medical and psychological clearance eliminate the standard 3–5 week post-match screening wait.
  • National program structure. Physician’s Surrogacy serves Michigan families regardless of distance from San Diego.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $60,000–$75,000+. Compensation is set from day one — no adjustments tied to location, insurance, or other variables.
  • $1,250 screening bonus paid before pregnancy confirmation. One of the only pre-confirmation payments in the industry.
  • Pre-pregnancy monthly payments are part of total compensation — not an add-on billed separately.
  • Physician-designed screening means only the healthiest candidates carry — reducing complication risk for Michigan surrogates and their families.
  • Surrogate age window: 20.5–40.5. BMI up to 35 accepted. Women with BMI 35–37 are still encouraged to apply.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a 1-week match time — versus the 6–12 month industry standard. Michigan surrogates in the Medically Cleared Program eliminate the post-match screening wait, compressing an end-to-end journey to approximately 14 months.

Physician’s Surrogacy has no physical Michigan office. All clinical coordination connects with Michigan IVF clinics remotely — a structure that works well for both in-state and out-of-state intended parents.

Best For: Michigan intended parents who want physician-managed clinical oversight, an immediate match, and fully transparent flat-rate pricing. Also ideal for Michigan surrogates who want a set compensation package and a pre-match screening bonus.

2. Hope Surrogacy (Royal Oak, Michigan)

Hope Surrogacy is a full-service agency headquartered in Royal Oak, Michigan — serving surrogates and intended parents statewide from Detroit to Ann Arbor to Grand Rapids.

The agency uses a surrogate-set compensation model. Hope recommends surrogates request a base of $35,000–$40,000, with total compensation landing between $60,000 and $70,000.

Surrogates work directly with the founding team: Mary, Amy, Krista, and Jenn.

For Intended Parents

  • Michigan-based and statewide. Local team with presence across Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, and surrounding communities.
  • Boutique agency model. Intended parents work directly with the founding team rather than being handed off to a coordinator.
  • Michigan ART attorney partnerships. The agency connects families with Michigan-licensed Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) attorneys experienced under the new ARSPA framework.
  • LGBTQ+ inclusive. Serves all family structures regardless of sexual orientation, marital status, or genetic connection.

For Surrogates

  • Surrogate-set compensation. Surrogates propose their own rate rather than accepting a fixed agency-assigned figure. Total package: $60,000–$70,000.
  • Local support team. Michigan-based staff throughout the journey — not a remote case manager in another time zone.
  • Direct access to founders. Surrogates interact with Mary, Amy, Krista, and Jenn directly, not through layers of coordination staff.
  • Small caseloads. Genuine attention at each stage of the journey — a level of care larger national programs rarely match.

Hope does not publish IP total journey costs. Intended parents should request a full cost breakdown during the initial consultation. The surrogate-set compensation model gives surrogates more negotiating flexibility — but it also means IPs cannot easily compare costs upfront without an intake call.

Best For: Michigan surrogates who want to set their own rate and work with a locally based, founder-led team. Intended parents who prefer a boutique Michigan agency over a national program.

3. Gift of Life Surrogacy (Bloomfield Hills, Michigan)

Gift of Life Surrogacy has two physical offices — Bloomfield Hills, Michigan (just outside Detroit) and Sylvania, Ohio (near Toledo).

It is one of a small number of agencies nationally that fully screens all surrogate candidates before matching them with intended parents. That pre-match screening is led by Dr. F. Nicholas Shamma, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and founder of IVF Michigan Fertility Center.

Surrogates at Gift of Life receive $60,000–$70,000 in total compensation, covering first-time through experienced carriers.

For Intended Parents

  • Physician on staff. Dr. Shamma, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, leads medical oversight — not an outside contractor.
  • Full pre-match screening. All surrogate candidates complete medical, psychological, and background screening before any match is presented. IPs receive pre-vetted candidates only.
  • Michigan and Ohio coverage. Dual-office presence covers the Metro Detroit market and northwest Ohio corridor effectively.
  • In-house infertility nurse, attorney, and social workers. A multidisciplinary team reduces dependence on third-party referrals at each step.

For Surrogates

  • $60,000–$70,000 published compensation range. Covers first-time through experienced carriers with no ambiguity about the range.
  • Physician-supervised screening. Medical clearance is conducted by a reproductive endocrinologist before matching — not a contracted clinic unfamiliar with surrogacy protocols.
  • Infertility nurse on staff. Surrogates have direct access to nursing expertise throughout the medical phase.
  • Surrogate community. Former gestational carriers serve on the team, providing peer support at a level coordinator-only agencies cannot replicate.

Gift of Life does not publish full IP journey costs. The pre-match screening model does add time to the initial process — but families who have experienced a late-stage disqualification elsewhere generally view the upfront investment as worthwhile.

Best For: Michigan intended parents who want the deepest pre-match surrogate vetting available from a local agency with physician oversight on staff. Surrogates who want physician-supervised medical screening and a multidisciplinary support team.

4. Golden Surrogacy (National — Active Michigan Program)

Golden Surrogacy has served Michigan surrogates and intended parents for over a decade — operating across Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Kalamazoo, and surrounding communities.

The agency’s compensation guarantee is its clearest differentiator: $70,000 minimum for first-time Michigan surrogates. All IP funds are held in third-party escrow before medical procedures begin.

The agency was co-founded by former intended parents.

For Intended Parents

  • Statewide Michigan coverage. Active matching across Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Kalamazoo, and beyond.
  • Co-founded by former IPs. The founding team navigated their own surrogacy journeys and built the agency around the gaps they experienced.
  • Escrow-first policy. All IP funds deposited in third-party escrow before medical procedures begin — protecting both parties from mid-journey financial exposure.
  • LGBTQ+ inclusive. Serves all family structures and orientations.

For Surrogates

  • $70,000 guaranteed minimum. No “up to” language. $70,000 is the floor for all first-time Michigan surrogates, regardless of location or insurance.
  • Pre-pregnancy payments totaling $12,500. Strong pre-confirmation payment structure.
  • Compensation not adjusted for location or insurance. Golden does not reduce surrogate pay based on factors many agencies use to lower the effective rate.
  • Experienced surrogate premium. Repeat surrogates earn above the $70,000 floor.

Golden does not publish IP total costs or average match times. Intended parents should request a full breakdown during the initial consultation. The agency operates remotely for Michigan families — no in-state office.

Best For: Michigan surrogates who want the clearest guaranteed compensation minimum in this comparison. Intended parents who want a founder team with lived IP experience and strong statewide matching reach.

5. Fertility Source Companies (National — Michigan Clinic Network)

Fertility Source Companies (FSC) is a nationally operating agency with an active Michigan program and published state-specific figures on both sides. First-time Michigan surrogates earn a $65,000 base — paid in eight monthly installments from confirmed fetal heartbeat.

Total IP journey costs run $160,000–$175,000. FSC’s Michigan program is supported by clinic partnerships across Detroit, Grand Rapids, Sterling Heights, and Ann Arbor.

For Intended Parents

  • Published total cost: $160,000–$175,000. One of the clearer MI-facing cost disclosures available before the intake call.
  • Active Michigan clinic partnerships. Established relationships with IVF centers across Detroit, Grand Rapids, Sterling Heights, and Ann Arbor.
  • $30,000 agency fee in milestone installments. Reduces upfront financial exposure at journey start.
  • National surrogate pool. Michigan IPs access FSC’s nationwide database — not limited to in-state candidates.

For Surrogates

  • $65,000 published base for Michigan. Eight-payment structure from fetal heartbeat confirmation. A $350/month expense allowance runs throughout.
  • Staff RN reviews past pregnancies. A registered nurse on staff audits surrogate health history before acceptance — not just a coordinator checklist.
  • Surrogate age requirement: 21–43. Broader than some agencies.
  • Access to domestic and international IPs. Michigan surrogates match with a broader pool than local-only agencies provide.

FSC has no physical Michigan office — coordination is fully remote. Families on tighter budgets should compare closely against other agencies with lower total cost ranges.

Best For: Michigan IPs who want clearly published total journey costs and active clinic relationships statewide. Michigan surrogates who want structured base compensation with published milestone payments.

6. Circle Surrogacy (National — Active Michigan Program)

Circle Surrogacy was founded in 1995 and is one of the oldest agencies in the U.S. It actively serves Michigan families from its Boston headquarters. Circle has been operating in states that legalized surrogacy well before Michigan’s 2025 law — bringing that depth of legal and medical coordination experience to a new market.

Circle’s Circle Surrogate Promise is a standout protection program. Circle financially backs intended parents so surrogate escrow accounts are always funded. It also takes on liability for certain medical billing complications — a protection most agencies do not offer.

For Intended Parents

  • 30 years of agency experience. One of the oldest surrogacy agencies in the U.S., with a large national infrastructure supporting new Michigan journeys.
  • Global intended parent pool. Serves families from 70+ countries — relevant for Michigan surrogates who want broad IP matching options.
  • MatchMade™ process. Personality and values-based matching beyond clinical and geographic criteria.
  • Strong international legal infrastructure. Particularly well-suited for international IPs pursuing Michigan journeys.

For Surrogates

  • Circle Surrogate Promise. Guarantees surrogate escrow is always funded. Circle takes on liability for certain medical billing complications.
  • Compensation customized per surrogate. Not published publicly. Michigan surrogates should request a full breakdown before engaging.
  • Access to a global IP pool. Michigan surrogates can match with domestic and international families.

Circle does not publish Michigan-specific compensation ranges or IP total costs. Families who need cost data before engaging will find Fertility Source Companies more immediately transparent. Circle’s strength is depth of experience and surrogate financial protections.

Best For: Michigan IPs with international backgrounds or complex multi-jurisdiction needs. Michigan surrogates who want the strongest escrow and medical billing protections available from a nationally established agency.

7. American Surrogacy (National — Michigan Program)

American Surrogacy is headquartered in Olathe, Kansas with an active Michigan program. First-time Michigan surrogates can earn $55,000–$110,000+ — one of the widest published pay ranges in the state.

The agency publishes a 1–4 month match time and operates on a 1:1 surrogate-to-IP ratio. The Limited Risk Program covers unlimited rematches and refunds on specified unused fees if no embryos remain and no birth has occurred.

Total Michigan journey costs run $150,000–$179,000+.

For Intended Parents

  • Limited Risk Program. Financial protection against repeated failed transfers and post-termination unused-fee losses.
  • 1–4 month published match time. Faster than the 6–12 month industry standard, though slower than Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average.
  • Michigan legal familiarity. Works with Michigan-licensed ART attorneys experienced in ARSPA contract requirements and pre-birth order filings.
  • Serves all family structures. LGBTQ+, single parents, and donor-gamete families without restriction.

For Surrogates

  • $55,000–$110,000+ published MI range. The widest published first-time compensation range in this comparison.
  • Monthly payment structure. Base pay in 10 monthly installments after pregnancy confirmation.
  • Statewide MI coverage. Active across Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Lansing, and surrounding communities.

American Surrogacy has no physical Michigan office. Surrogate screening relies on contracted medical professionals rather than an in-house clinical team — a meaningful distinction for families evaluating medical oversight.

Best For: Michigan surrogates who want a clearly published pay range with an experienced surrogate premium. IPs who want financial downside protection through the Limited Risk Program.

Michigan Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

Michigan’s legal framework changed dramatically on April 2, 2025. The ARSPA (Act 24 of 2024) — also called the Michigan Family Protection Act — repealed the 1988 Surrogate Parenting Act and replaced it with one of the most comprehensive surrogacy statutes in the country.

  • Michigan was the only state to criminalize compensated surrogacy — until 2025. Under the 1988 law (MCL 722.851), compensated surrogacy contracts were void and unenforceable — and carried criminal penalties up to one year in jail and a $10,000 fine. The 2024 law repealed this ban entirely. As of April 2, 2025, compensated surrogacy is fully legal and protected in Michigan.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders are available — no court hearing required. Under MCL 722.1908, the court may issue a judgment of parentage before or after the child’s birth. The pre-birth order takes effect at birth. No in-person hearing is required — the petition must be accompanied by attorney certifications confirming the agreement meets all statutory requirements.
  • Michigan has a flexible nexus rule — not a strict residency requirement. Under MCL 722.1902, the surrogacy agreement is valid if at least one of the following applies: at least one party is a Michigan resident; the birth occurs or is anticipated in Michigan; or the ART procedure is performed in Michigan.
  • Independent Michigan-licensed legal counsel is mandatory for all parties. Under MCL 722.1902, each intended parent and the surrogate must have separate, independent legal representation from a Michigan-licensed attorney throughout the agreement. The intended parents must pay for the surrogate’s legal representation.
  • The agreement must be executed and notarized before any medical procedures begin. Under MCL 722.1902, all parties must sign and notarize the surrogacy agreement before any procedure related to the surrogacy — except screening evaluations and mental health consultations — takes place.
  • The surrogate retains full health and welfare decision-making rights. Under MCL 722.1903, the surrogacy agreement must explicitly permit the surrogate to make all health and welfare decisions regarding herself and the pregnancy — including decisions about cesarean section and multiple embryo transfer. Any contractual provision to the contrary is void and unenforceable.
  • Donors have no parental rights. Under MCL 722.1903(5), a donor is not a parent of a child conceived by assisted reproduction under a surrogacy agreement by virtue of genetic connection alone. This protection applies to sperm, egg, and embryo donors.
  • All family structures are covered. The ARSPA explicitly prohibits discrimination based on marital status, gender, and sexual orientation. Married couples, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, single parents, and international IPs all have equal access to Michigan’s surrogacy framework.
  • The surrogate must meet minimum statutory requirements. Under MCL 722.1902, the surrogate must be at least 21 years old, have previously given birth to at least one child, complete medical and psychological evaluations, and have independent legal representation throughout.
  • This law is brand new — early practice is still forming. The ARSPA took effect April 2, 2025. Court timelines, Vital Records procedures, and county-level practices are still developing. Work with a Michigan-licensed ART attorney who has active experience filing under this statute.

Tip:
Michigan’s ARSPA is still in its first year of practice. Pre-birth order timelines, Vital Records processes, and county court procedures are actively evolving. Before matching or scheduling any medical steps, confirm your legal pathway with a Michigan-licensed ART attorney who has filed under MCL 722.1908 since April 2025. Early legal clarity protects both surrogates and intended parents from procedural delays.

What to Look for in a Michigan Surrogacy Agency

Michigan’s ARSPA sets strong statutory standards for surrogacy agreements and parentage. But it sets no minimum bar for the agencies that coordinate journeys under it.

Any business can operate as a Michigan surrogacy agency without a license. These five criteria separate strong agencies from weak ones in this market.

  • ARSPA-experienced legal network. Michigan’s law is less than one year old. Ask each agency which Michigan ART attorneys they work with and whether those attorneys have active experience filing pre-birth order petitions under MCL 722.1908 since April 2025. Early-mover legal expertise matters here more than in long-established surrogacy states.
  • Physician oversight model. Ask specifically who performs surrogate screening and what clinical credentials they hold. Michigan’s statute requires mental health and medical evaluations — but sets no minimum standard for the agency role in clinical oversight. The difference between coordinator-led and physician-led screening is measurable in outcomes.
  • Pre-match vs. post-match screening. Michigan is a new surrogacy market. Surrogate candidate pools are forming for the first time. Ask whether agencies complete full medical, psychological, and background screening before presenting a surrogate profile — or after a match interest is expressed.
  • Compensation transparency. Michigan’s market spans $60,000 to $70,000+ for first-time surrogates, depending on the agency. Ask whether the published figure is a guaranteed minimum or a ceiling. Confirm whether compensation is a flat-rate package or a base pay structure with separate add-ons billed later.
  • Escrow funding timing. Michigan law does not mandate escrow funding sequences. Agency practices vary. Confirm that all IP funds are in a third-party escrow account before any medical procedures begin — protecting surrogate payment security at every stage of the journey.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

This comparison was built on direct research into each agency’s publicly available materials, published compensation and cost data, Michigan legal affiliations, and verifiable state presence. Six criteria were applied consistently across all seven agencies.

1

Medical Oversight

We assessed whether each agency employs practicing physicians or reproductive endocrinologists in a clinical oversight role. Michigan’s ARSPA sets no minimum bar on agency medical qualifications. In-house physician involvement was weighted heavily because it directly affects surrogate health outcomes.

2

Michigan Legal Expertise

We assessed each agency’s demonstrated familiarity with Michigan’s ARSPA (MCL 722.1901 et seq.), their legal network’s experience filing pre-birth order petitions under MCL 722.1908, and depth of in-house vs. referred legal resources for the new Michigan framework.

3

Compensation Transparency

We documented whether agencies publish verifiable Michigan-specific surrogate compensation figures and verified whether those figures are guaranteed minimums or ceilings. Agencies with clear, guaranteed first-time surrogate floors received higher marks.

4

IP Total Cost Clarity

We reviewed whether agencies publish total journey cost ranges — not just agency fee lines. Agencies with all-inclusive or flat-rate pricing and published total cost figures scored higher than those requiring an intake call before any numbers are shared.

5

Michigan Presence and Match Speed

We recorded published average match times and assessed physical Michigan presence — in-state office vs. remote coordination. We also evaluated demonstrated Michigan clinic network relationships as a proxy for state-specific operational depth.

6

Surrogate Screening Depth

We evaluated whether agencies complete pre-match vs. post-match medical and psychological screening. In Michigan’s newly opened market, pre-match screening reduces late-stage disqualification risk — a consideration that matters more here than in established surrogacy states.

 

Editorial Disclosure:
This article is published by Physician’s Surrogacy. Agency 1 in this list is Physician’s Surrogacy, which produced this content. All competitor information is drawn from publicly available sources including agency websites, published compensation schedules, and legal materials current as of 2026. No external agency paid for placement or editorial review. We do not link to competitor websites.

Choosing a Michigan Surrogacy Agency in 2026: Where to Start

Michigan’s surrogacy law is one of the most comprehensive in the country. The ARSPA protects surrogates, IPs, donors, and children — built on a framework drawn from the Uniform Parentage Act of 2017.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. The best surrogacy agencies in Michigan bring both to the table: physician oversight at the screening level, ARSPA-experienced legal counsel, and compensation structures built for transparency from day one.

What Michigan surrogacy families gain with this law — and a carefully chosen agency — is something that wasn’t possible here just two years ago: a protected path to parenthood, a fairly compensated surrogate, and clinical accountability at every step.


Ready to Take the Next Step?

Michigan Surrogacy Starts Here

Michigan surrogates can start their application today. Intended parents can schedule a no-obligation consultation — no agency fee is owed until your match is confirmed.

Physician’s Surrogacy averages a one-week match — versus the 6–12 month industry standard — with preterm birth rates 50% below the national average.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Michigan? +
Yes. The Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act (Act 24 of 2024) took effect April 2, 2025. It fully legalizes compensated gestational surrogacy, provides for enforceable contracts, and grants pre-birth parentage orders. Michigan reversed a decades-long criminal ban with this legislation.
Do intended parents need to live in Michigan? +
No. Michigan uses a flexible nexus rule. The law applies if at least one party resides in Michigan, the birth occurs in Michigan, or the ART procedure takes place in Michigan. Out-of-state intended parents can pursue a Michigan journey without being Michigan residents.
How much do surrogates get paid in Michigan? +
First-time Michigan surrogate compensation ranges from $60,000 to $70,000+ depending on the agency. Physician’s Surrogacy offers a flat-rate package starting at $60,000–$75,000+ with a $1,250 screening bonus paid before pregnancy confirmation. Golden Surrogacy guarantees a $70,000 minimum for Michigan surrogates.
How much does surrogacy cost for intended parents in Michigan? +
Total Michigan surrogacy costs typically range from $140,000 to $179,000+, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance. Physician’s Surrogacy’s Flat-Rate Surrogacy program starts at $140,000–$170,000+ with no agency fee until match confirmation.
Can LGBTQ+ intended parents use surrogacy in Michigan? +
Yes. Michigan’s ARSPA explicitly prohibits discrimination based on marital status, gender, and sexual orientation. Married couples, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and single parents all have equal access to pre-birth parentage orders and enforceable surrogacy contracts under Michigan law.


!

Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Michigan surrogacy laws, agency compensation figures, and program details are subject to change. The ARSPA took effect April 2, 2025 — confirm all legal pathways with a Michigan-licensed ART attorney before entering any surrogacy agreement.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Connecticut (2026)

Finding the best surrogacy agencies in Connecticut starts with understanding what makes the state’s legal framework genuinely different from most.

The Connecticut Parentage Act — enacted as Public Act 21-15 and effective January 1, 2022 — codified gestational surrogacy into statute under C.G.S. §§ 46b-450 through 46b-553, establishing clear requirements for surrogacy agreements, mandatory independent legal counsel, and a defined path to pre-birth parentage orders for all family structures.

Pre-birth orders are available to married and unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and single parents regardless of genetic connection to the child. Connecticut was already a recognized surrogacy-friendly state before 2022, but the statute codified and expanded those protections into one of the strongest parentage frameworks in the region.

Connecticut is consistently listed among the best states for surrogacy in the U.S. Physician’s Surrogacy, the nation’s only OB/GYN-managed surrogacy agency, works with Connecticut surrogates and intended parents through the same physician-designed screening program and Flat-Rate Surrogacy model relied on by families across the Northeast.

This guide compares the seven best surrogacy agencies actively serving Connecticut in 2026, covering surrogate compensation, intended parent costs, match timelines, physician oversight, and local presence.

Key Takeaways

The Connecticut Parentage Act (C.G.S. §§ 46b-450–46b-553, effective January 2022) governs gestational surrogacy with clear statutory requirements, one of the strongest parentage frameworks in the Northeast.
Pre-birth parentage orders are available for all family structures – married, unmarried, same-sex, and single parents, regardless of genetic connection – but a court hearing with all parties present is required.
Connecticut has a residency-based jurisdiction requirement: at least one party (intended parent or surrogate) must reside in Connecticut for a Connecticut court to issue a pre-birth order.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list led by practicing OB/GYNs, producing preterm birth rates 50% below the national average through a physician-designed screening protocol.
Connecticut has no state licensing requirement for surrogacy agencies; vetting each agency’s medical oversight, legal experience, and financial safeguards is entirely the responsibility of the families involved.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Connecticut

The table below compares all seven agencies at a glance. Surrogate pay reflects published first-time surrogate compensation. IP totals cover the full journey — agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance. All figures are as of 2026.

Agency HQ / CT Presence Surrogate Pay (CT) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? CT-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA / National $60,000+ (first-time) From $145,000 (fixed and flat) ~1 week avg. ✅ Yes — OB/GYNs No (national)
Worldwide Surrogacy Specialists Fairfield, CT (CT HQ) $55,000–$70,000+ $140,000–$160,000 (excl. clinic) Not published No Yes
Reproductive Possibilities Montvale, NJ / Tri-state CT $55,000–$60,000 Not published (full) Not published No No (NJ-based, tri-state)
Golden Surrogacy National / Active CT $70,000 minimum Not published Not published No No
Fertility Source Companies National / CT clinic network $65,000 base $160,000–$175,000 (total) Not published No No
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA / Serves CT Not published (CT) Not published Not published No No
American Surrogacy Olathe, KS / Serves CT $55,000–$90,000+ (CT) $140,000–$200,000+ 1–4 months No No

* IP total cost estimates include agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical/in vitro fertilization (IVF), legal, escrow, and insurance. Figures excluding IVF clinic costs are noted. Exact totals vary by surrogate experience, insurance, and number of transfer cycles.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (National — OB/GYN-Managed)

Quick Facts

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by practicing OB/GYNs. Connecticut surrogates earn a flat-rate package starting at $60,000+, plus a $1,250 screening bonus. Programs for intended parents start at $145,000 with all quotations Fixed and Flat and no agency fees until match is confirmed. Average match time: approximately one week.

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by practicing OB/GYNs. That clinical structure produces measurable results: preterm birth rates 50% below the national average, driven by a physician-designed screening protocol that accepts roughly 8% of all applicants.

The agency’s specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatal care, and OB/GYNs conduct peer-to-peer consultations with a Connecticut surrogate’s delivering OB — coordination no coordinator-run agency can replicate.

Connecticut surrogates earn a flat-rate package starting at $60,000+, plus a $1,250 screening bonus before pregnancy confirmation. Intended parents pay one all-in price — Fixed and Flat — with no agency fees until a match is confirmed. Programs start at $145,000 (Surrogacy Flat Rate).

Review surrogate compensation details or surrogacy costs for intended parents.

For Intended Parents

  • OB/GYN oversight throughout. Practicing physicians lead surrogate screening and coordinate directly with the delivering OB in Connecticut — no coordinator-only model.
  • Fixed and Flat pricing. Programs start at $145,000 (Surrogacy Flat Rate) with no agency fees until match confirmed. All quotations are Fixed and Flat.
  • One-week average match time. No wait list and immediate availability for Connecticut families.
  • Medically Cleared Program. Connecticut surrogates who complete pre-match medical and psychological clearance eliminate the 3–5 week post-match screening delay, moving directly to legal and embryo transfer preparation after matching.
  • National program structure. Serves Connecticut intended parents regardless of their physical proximity to our San Diego headquarters.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $60,000+. Compensation is set before the journey begins. No adjustments tied to location, insurance, or other factors.
  • $1,250 screening bonus paid before pregnancy confirmation — one of the only pre-confirmation payments in the industry.
  • Pre-pregnancy monthly payments are part of total compensation, not added as a separate line item later.
  • Physician-designed screening protocol means only the healthiest candidates carry — reducing complication risk for Connecticut surrogates and their families.
  • Surrogate age window: 20.5–40.5. BMI up to 35 accepted; women with BMI 35–37 are still encouraged to apply.
Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a 1-week match time — versus the 6–12 month industry standard. The total journey from match to live birth averages 14 months at Physician’s Surrogacy — compared to 30–36 months at most agencies. Connecticut surrogates in the Medically Cleared Program eliminate the post-match screening wait entirely.

Physician’s Surrogacy is headquartered in San Diego without a physical Connecticut office. All clinical coordination connects with Connecticut IVF clinics remotely for both in-state and out-of-state intended parents.

Best For: Connecticut intended parents who want physician-managed clinical oversight, an immediate match, and a fully transparent flat-rate pricing structure. Also ideal for Connecticut surrogates who want a fixed-rate package and a pre-match screening bonus.

Ready to learn more about Physician’s Surrogacy?

Connecticut surrogates start at $60,000+. No agency fees for intended parents until match is confirmed.

2. Worldwide Surrogacy Specialists (Fairfield, Connecticut)

Worldwide Surrogacy Specialists (WWS) is the only surrogacy agency physically headquartered in Connecticut — based in Fairfield and serving intended parents across the U.S. and internationally. The agency carries a distinct legal credential: its founder, Victoria Ferrara, is a Connecticut reproductive attorney and the legal director who secured the landmark 2011 Raftopol v. Ramey decision from the Connecticut Supreme Court — the ruling that established Vital Records’ obligation to name intended parents on birth certificates regardless of genetic connection.

That legal foundation is built into how WWS operates. The agency provides in-house attorney oversight at every stage, which means Connecticut surrogacy law is not outsourced to a separate firm — it is integral to the agency’s management structure. IP costs run $140,000–$160,000 excluding fertility clinic fees, and first-time surrogate compensation is $55,000–$70,000+.

For Intended Parents

  • In-house reproductive attorney. Victoria Ferrara and the Ferrara Law Group provide legal oversight within the agency structure — not through a referral to an outside firm.
  • Founded the CT legal precedent. WWS’s founder secured Raftopol v. Ramey, which directly shaped Connecticut’s current parentage framework before the 2022 statute.
  • Published IP cost range: $140,000–$160,000 excluding clinic fees — one of the clearer cost disclosures among Connecticut-based agencies.
  • International and domestic families served. Serves intended parents from across the U.S. and from many other countries with multilingual coordination capability.
  • In-house escrow management. Financial safeguards are handled internally rather than outsourced to a third party.

For Surrogates

  • $55,000–$70,000+ first-time surrogate pay. Plus a $1,000 contract signing bonus paid in two installments at contract and medical approval.
  • Local Connecticut team. In-state support staff throughout the journey — surrogates in the Fairfield County area benefit from genuine geographic proximity.
  • Attorney-led legal protections. Surrogate legal representation is facilitated and supervised by a reproductive law specialist with specific Connecticut court experience.

WWS does not publish average match times, and its IP cost range explicitly excludes fertility clinic fees — families should request a full-journey cost estimate during consultation to understand the true total. The agency’s national scope means surrogate matching is not limited to Connecticut residents, which broadens intended parent (IP) options but may mean some surrogates match with out-of-state families.

Best For: Connecticut intended parents who want the deepest local legal expertise available — particularly those who value having a reproductive attorney managing their journey rather than coordinating with one externally. Also strong for international intended parents pursuing Connecticut birth journeys.

3. Reproductive Possibilities (Montvale, NJ — Tri-State CT Coverage)

Reproductive Possibilities (RP) is a New Jersey-based agency with deep tri-state experience in Connecticut surrogacy, founded by Melissa Brisman — herself an intended parent who used surrogacy and who is also a reproductive law attorney. RP has active clinic relationships across the Connecticut market, including New England Fertility in Stamford, Park Avenue Fertility in Fairfield, and Illume Fertility in Norwalk.

The agency publishes first-time Connecticut surrogate compensation in the $55,000–$60,000 range, with higher pay for experienced carriers. RP’s model emphasizes keeping journeys local: the agency prioritizes matching Connecticut intended parents with Connecticut or tri-state surrogates to minimize travel costs and build closer IP-surrogate relationships throughout the journey.

For Intended Parents

  • Founder is a CT intended parent and reproductive attorney. Melissa Brisman brings both personal surrogacy experience and legal expertise to the agency’s structure.
  • Active Connecticut clinic partnerships. Established working relationships with New England Fertility, Park Avenue Fertility, Illume Fertility, and other Connecticut IVF centers.
  • Local matching priority. The agency deliberately matches CT families with geographically close surrogates to reduce travel costs and support closer relationships.
  • Full-service and customizable plans. Intended parents can choose full case management or a more tailored engagement based on their needs and budget.

For Surrogates

  • $55,000–$60,000 published CT first-time pay. Experienced surrogates receive higher compensation; multiples also carry additional compensation.
  • Tri-state surrogate community. Connecticut surrogates join a regional program with strong local infrastructure and nearby support networks.
  • Attorney-founded oversight. Melissa Brisman’s reproductive law background shapes how contracts, legal timelines, and IP-surrogate agreements are structured.

RP does not publish a full IP total journey cost online — families should request a detailed cost breakdown during the free consultation. The agency’s compensation floor is lower than some competitors; surrogates who want a higher guaranteed minimum should compare against Golden Surrogacy and Physician’s Surrogacy before deciding.

Best For: Connecticut intended parents who want a tri-state agency with strong local clinic relationships and a founder who has been through both the legal and personal sides of surrogacy. Surrogates seeking a geographically anchored, attorney-supported program near New England fertility clinics.

4. Golden Surrogacy (National — Active Connecticut Program)

Golden Surrogacy has served Connecticut surrogates and intended parents for over a decade, operating across New Haven, New London, Hartford, Greenwich, and surrounding communities. The agency is best known for its compensation guarantee: a $70,000 minimum for first-time surrogates — and a firm commitment to never using “up to” or “between” language that obscures the actual figure.

Pre-pregnancy payments to surrogates total $12,500 before confirmation, and all intended parent funds are held in third-party escrow before any medical procedures begin. Golden was co-founded by former intended parents and includes multiple former surrogates on its team.

For Intended Parents

  • Statewide Connecticut coverage. Active matching across New Haven, Hartford, Greenwich, New London, and surrounding areas — not limited to major metro centers.
  • Founder-led empathy. Co-founded by former intended parents who understand the emotional weight of the process from the IP side.
  • Escrow-first policy. All funds deposited in third-party escrow before medical procedures begin — protecting both parties from financial exposure mid-journey.
  • LGBTQ+ inclusive. Serves all family structures regardless of sexual orientation, marital status, or genetic connection.

For Surrogates

  • $70,000 guaranteed minimum. No “up to” language — $70,000 is the floor for all first-time Connecticut surrogates, independent of location or insurance.
  • Pre-pregnancy payments totaling $12,500. One of the strongest pre-confirmation payment structures available in Connecticut.
  • Compensation not adjusted for location or insurance. Golden does not reduce surrogate pay based on factors many agencies use to lower the effective rate.
  • Experienced surrogate premium. Repeat surrogates earn above the $70,000 floor based on journey history.

Golden does not publish IP total costs or average match times — intended parents should request a full breakdown during the initial consultation. The agency coordinates remotely for Connecticut families, with no in-state office.

Best For: Connecticut surrogates who want the clearest guaranteed compensation minimum among agencies in this comparison. Intended parents who want a co-founder team with lived IP experience and strong statewide matching reach.

5. Fertility Source Companies (National — Connecticut Clinic Network)

Fertility Source Companies (FSC) is a nationally operating agency with an active Connecticut program and published state-specific figures on both sides. First-time Connecticut surrogates earn a $65,000 base, paid in eight monthly installments from confirmed fetal heartbeat, plus $1,500 bonuses at medical and legal clearance. Total IP journey costs run $160,000–$175,000, with the $30,000 agency fee structured in milestone-tied installments.

FSC’s Connecticut program is supported by established clinic partnerships across the state, including New England Fertility in Stamford, Park Avenue Fertility in Fairfield, Illume Fertility in Norwalk, and the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services. All coordination runs through FSC’s national case management team.

For Intended Parents

  • Published total cost: $160,000–$175,000. One of the clearer CT-facing total cost disclosures available before the intake call.
  • Active Connecticut clinic partnerships. Established relationships with multiple Connecticut IVF centers across the Stamford, Fairfield, and Norwalk corridor.
  • $30,000 agency fee in milestone installments. Fee structure reduces upfront financial exposure at journey start.
  • National surrogate pool. Connecticut intended parents access FSC’s nationwide database — not limited to in-state candidates.

For Surrogates

  • $65,000 published base for Connecticut. Eight-payment structure from fetal heartbeat confirmation, with a $350/month expense allowance throughout.
  • $1,500 medical clearance + $1,500 legal clearance bonuses. Milestone payments supplement the base before monthly payments begin.
  • Surrogate age requirement: 21–43. Broader window than some agencies, confirmed during screening.
  • Access to domestic and international intended parents. Connecticut surrogates match with a broader IP pool than local-only agencies provide.

FSC has no physical Connecticut office — coordination is fully remote. Its total cost range ($160,000–$175,000) is higher than some competitors; families on tighter budgets should compare closely against other agencies on this list.

Best For: Connecticut intended parents who want clearly published total journey costs and active clinic relationships across the state. Connecticut surrogates who want a structured pay model with published milestone bonuses.

6. Circle Surrogacy (Boston, MA — Serves Connecticut)

Circle Surrogacy is one of the oldest surrogacy agencies in the United States, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Boston — the closest major national agency to Connecticut. The agency serves families from 70+ countries, with strong regional familiarity in New England law and Connecticut’s Parentage Act framework.

Circle’s Circle Surrogate Promise program is a standout feature for Connecticut surrogates: Circle financially backs intended parents so that surrogate escrow accounts are always funded, and Circle takes on liability for certain medical billing issues. Connecticut surrogacy compensation is customized and not published publicly — figures are discussed during intake.

For Intended Parents

  • Boston proximity. The closest major national agency to Connecticut, with regional staff familiarity and Connecticut legal network access.
  • 30 years of New England legal experience. Demonstrated track record with Connecticut Parentage Act procedures and pre-birth order filings.
  • Global intended parent pool access. Serves families from 70+ countries — relevant for Connecticut-based surrogates who want international matching options.
  • Strong international legal infrastructure. Particularly well-suited for international intended parents pursuing CT journeys.

For Surrogates

  • Circle Surrogate Promise. Circle guarantees surrogate escrow is always funded and takes on liability for certain medical billing complications — a protection most agencies do not offer.
  • Compensation customized per surrogate. Not published publicly; discussed individually. Connecticut surrogates should request a full compensation breakdown before engaging.
  • Access to a global IP pool. Connecticut surrogates can match with domestic and international families.

Circle does not publish Connecticut-specific compensation ranges or IP total costs. The agency’s strength is depth of legal experience and surrogate financial protections — not published cost transparency. Families who need upfront cost data before engaging will find Fertility Source Companies or Worldwide Surrogacy Specialists more immediately transparent.

Best For: Connecticut intended parents with international backgrounds or complex multi-jurisdiction parentage needs. Connecticut surrogates who want the strongest escrow protection and medical billing safeguards available from a regional agency.

7. American Surrogacy (National — Connecticut Program)

American Surrogacy is headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, with an active Connecticut program and one of the widest published pay ranges in the state: first-time Connecticut surrogates can earn $55,000–$90,000+, with experienced surrogates eligible for more. The agency publishes a 1–4 month match time and operates on a 1:1 surrogate-to-intended parent ratio.

The Limited Risk Program covers unlimited rematches and refunds on specified unused fees if no embryos remain and no birth has occurred. A sensible CT total journey budget should assume $185,000 or above, per American Surrogacy’s own published guidance.

For Intended Parents

  • Limited Risk Program. Protection against repeated failed transfers and post-termination unused-fee losses.
  • 1–4 month published match time. Faster than the 6–12 month industry standard, though slower than Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average.
  • Connecticut legal familiarity. Works with Connecticut Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) attorneys experienced in C.G.S. §§ 46b-521–46b-538 and pre-birth order filings.
  • Serves all family structures. LGBTQ+, single parents, and donor-gamete families without restriction.

For Surrogates

  • $55,000–$90,000+ published CT range. One of the widest published first-time compensation ranges in this comparison.
  • Monthly payment structure. Compensation paid in 10 monthly installments after pregnancy confirmation.
  • Statewide CT coverage. Active across Bridgeport, Stamford, New Haven, Hartford, and surrounding communities.

American Surrogacy has no physical Connecticut office — all coordination is remote. Surrogate screening relies on contracted medical professionals rather than an in-house clinical team, which is a meaningful distinction for families evaluating medical oversight.

Best For: Connecticut surrogates who want a clearly published state-specific pay range with an experienced surrogate premium. Intended parents who want financial downside protection through the Limited Risk Program.

Connecticut Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

Connecticut’s surrogacy framework is governed by the Connecticut Parentage Act (C.G.S. §§ 46b-450 through 46b-553), enacted as Public Act 21-15 and effective January 1, 2022. Here is what every intended parent and surrogate candidate needs to understand before beginning a Connecticut journey.

  • Gestational surrogacy is expressly permitted by statute. C.G.S. § 46b-521 defines gestational surrogacy and establishes that a gestational surrogate is a person who carries a child using gametes that are not their own. The Connecticut Parentage Act governs both gestational and genetic (traditional) surrogacy agreements, though genetic surrogacy carries additional legal complexity.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders are available for all family structures. Under C.G.S. § 46b-531, any party to a gestational surrogacy agreement may petition for a judgment of parentage at any time after all parties have executed the agreement. Pre-birth orders are available to married and unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and single parents regardless of genetic connection to the child.
  • A court hearing is required — all parties must attend in person. Unlike some states where pre-birth orders are administrative, Connecticut requires a court hearing at which the intended parents, the gestational surrogate, and (if applicable) the surrogate’s spouse must all appear in person. The hearing typically takes place in the second trimester. This is a planning consideration that out-of-state parties must account for when scheduling their Connecticut journey.
  • Residency-based jurisdiction — at least one party must live in Connecticut. Connecticut courts have jurisdiction to issue a pre-birth order based on the municipality of the intended parents’ residence or the surrogate’s residence. If no party resides in Connecticut, it is not clear that a Connecticut court can issue the order — making this a critical early question for families planning a Connecticut birth without any Connecticut-resident party. Work with a Connecticut ART attorney to confirm jurisdiction before matching.
  • Independent legal counsel is mandatory for both parties. Under C.G.S. § 46b-523, the surrogate and, if married, the surrogate’s spouse, and all intended parents must have independent legal representation throughout the surrogacy agreement. Legal counsel must certify to the court that all statutory requirements for the agreement were met before the petition for parentage is heard.
  • The surrogacy agreement must be executed before medical procedures begin. Under C.G.S. § 46b-523, the agreement must be signed by all parties before any medical procedures related to the surrogacy — other than screening evaluations — take place. This sequencing is strictly enforced in Connecticut.
  • Compensated surrogacy is fully permitted. Connecticut law neither prohibits nor restricts surrogate compensation. Surrogates may receive payment for their time, effort, and physical commitment, as long as the terms are clearly outlined in the written surrogacy agreement. Both compensated and altruistic arrangements are recognized as enforceable.
  • Donors have no parental rights. Under C.G.S. § 46b-510, a donor of sperm or egg used in assisted reproduction is not a parent of the child by virtue of genetic connection alone, and may not establish parentage by signing an acknowledgment of parentage. This protection applies to identified and anonymous donors equally.
  • Vital Records issues a sealed replacement birth certificate. Under C.G.S. § 7-48a, upon receipt of a certified court order of parentage, the Connecticut Department of Public Health creates a replacement birth certificate naming the intended parents. The original record — which includes the surrogate’s name — is sealed at the Department of Health. The replacement certificate issued for all practical purposes shows only the intended parents’ names, with no indication that a surrogate was involved.
  • Traditional surrogacy: legally risky, no pre-birth order available. The Connecticut Parentage Act does not prohibit traditional surrogacy, but no pre-birth order is available in a traditional arrangement. Intended parents using a traditional surrogate must wait until post-birth and file a stepparent adoption — a more complex and uncertain process. Most Connecticut ART attorneys and agencies strongly advise against traditional surrogacy in the state.
Tip:
Connecticut’s required in-person pre-birth order hearing is a planning detail that catches some families off guard. All parties — intended parents, surrogate, and surrogate’s spouse if applicable — must appear in person before the court. Schedule this hearing during the second trimester, confirm travel arrangements for any out-of-state party well in advance, and always work with a Connecticut-licensed ART attorney who has specific experience filing pre-birth order petitions under C.G.S. § 46b-531.

What to Look for in a Connecticut Surrogacy Agency

Connecticut’s 2022 statute provides strong protections — but it sets no minimum standards for the agencies that coordinate journeys under it. Because any entity can operate as a surrogacy agency in Connecticut without a license, quality varies widely. These five criteria reliably separate strong agencies from weak ones in this market.

  • Connecticut-specific legal credentials. Connecticut’s parentage law has particular requirements — a mandatory court hearing, counsel certification, and residency-based jurisdiction — that require ART attorneys with active Connecticut Probate and Superior Court experience. Ask each agency which Connecticut attorneys they work with and whether those attorneys have filed multiple pre-birth order petitions under C.G.S. § 46b-531.
  • In-house vs. outsourced legal oversight. Some Connecticut agencies have a reproductive attorney embedded in the agency structure; others coordinate legal work through referrals. For a state where the pre-birth order process requires court appearance and formal counsel certification, the depth of in-house legal expertise is a meaningful differentiator.
  • Physician oversight model. Ask specifically who performs surrogate screening and what clinical credentials they hold. Connecticut’s statute sets no minimum bar on agency medical qualifications — meaning any agency can screen surrogates without physician involvement. The difference between coordinator-led screening and physician-led screening is measurable in surrogate health outcomes.
  • Compensation transparency. Connecticut’s market spans $55,000 to $70,000+ for first-time surrogates depending on the agency. Ask whether the published figure is a true guaranteed minimum or a ceiling that most surrogates fall below. Also confirm whether the published figure is a true flat-rate package or a structured pay model with separate add-ons.
  • Escrow funding timing. Connecticut law does not mandate escrow; agency practices vary. Confirm that all intended parent funds are deposited in a third-party escrow account before any medical procedures begin — protecting surrogate payment security regardless of any journey complications on the IP side.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

This comparison was built on direct research into each agency’s publicly available materials, published compensation and cost data, Connecticut legal affiliations, and verifiable state presence. Five criteria were applied consistently across all seven agencies.

1. Medical Oversight

We assessed whether each agency employs practicing physicians in a clinical oversight role versus outsourcing all medical judgment to contracted fertility clinics. In-house OB/GYN leadership was weighted heavily because it directly affects surrogate health outcomes — and because Connecticut’s statute places no minimum bar on agency medical qualifications.

2. Connecticut Legal Expertise

We assessed each agency’s demonstrated familiarity with C.G.S. §§ 46b-521–46b-538, experience filing pre-birth order petitions under § 46b-531, and the depth of in-house vs. referred legal resources for handling Connecticut’s required court hearing process.

3. Compensation Transparency

We documented whether agencies publish verifiable Connecticut-specific surrogate compensation figures and whether those figures are true guaranteed minimums or maximums that most surrogates fall below. Agencies that publish clear, guaranteed first-time surrogate floors received higher marks.

4. IP Total Cost Clarity

We reviewed whether agencies publish total journey cost ranges — not just agency fee lines — so intended parents can evaluate full financial exposure before engaging. Agencies with all-inclusive or flat-rate pricing and published total cost figures were scored higher than those requiring an intake call before any numbers are shared.

5. Connecticut Presence and Match Speed

We recorded published average match times where available and assessed physical Connecticut presence — whether an agency maintains a Connecticut office versus coordinating remotely. We also evaluated regional presence in the tri-state area as a proxy for familiarity with Connecticut-specific fertility clinic infrastructure and legal networks.

 

Editorial Disclosure:
This article is published by Physician’s Surrogacy. Agency 1 in this list is Physician’s Surrogacy, which produced this content. All competitor information is drawn from publicly available sources including agency websites, published compensation schedules, and legal materials current as of 2026. No external agency paid for placement or editorial review. We do not link to competitor websites.

Choosing the Best Surrogacy Agency in Connecticut: What to Ask First

Connecticut’s 2022 Connecticut Parentage Act gives families a clear, codified path to parentage — but the law does not govern the agencies that coordinate those journeys. That vetting is entirely on you.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. The best surrogacy agencies in Connecticut bring that weight to the table: legal expertise built specifically around Connecticut’s required court hearing, physician oversight at the screening level, and financial transparency before you sign anything.

Connecticut surrogates ready to take the first step, and intended parents ready to explore their options — both paths start below. No agency fees are owed until your match is confirmed.

Connecticut’s Only OB/GYN-Led Program

Physician-Grade Safety. Flat-Rate Pricing. One-Week Matching.

Connecticut surrogates earn $60,000+ flat-rate with a $1,250 pre-screening bonus. Intended parents get Fixed and Flat pricing from $145,000 with no agency fees until match confirmed.

Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. Average match: ~1 week. No fees until match confirmed.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Connecticut? +
Yes. The Connecticut Parentage Act (C.G.S. §§ 46b-450–46b-553, effective January 2022) governs gestational surrogacy with clear statutory requirements. Compensated surrogacy is permitted. Pre-birth orders are available for all family structures. Traditional surrogacy is not expressly prohibited but carries more legal risk and no pre-birth order access.
Do all parties have to attend the pre-birth order hearing in Connecticut? +
Yes. Connecticut requires an in-person court hearing for pre-birth orders at which the intended parents, the gestational surrogate, and (if applicable) the surrogate’s spouse must all appear. This typically takes place in the second trimester. Out-of-state parties must plan travel to Connecticut for this proceeding.
How much do surrogates get paid in Connecticut? +
First-time surrogate compensation in Connecticut typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000+ depending on the agency. Physician’s Surrogacy offers a flat-rate package starting at $60,000+ for Connecticut surrogates, plus a $1,250 screening bonus before pregnancy confirmation. Golden Surrogacy publishes a guaranteed $70,000 minimum for Connecticut surrogates.
How much does surrogacy cost for intended parents in Connecticut? +
Total Connecticut surrogacy costs typically range from $145,000 to $210,000+, including agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance. Physician’s Surrogacy programs start at $145,000 (Surrogacy Flat Rate) with no agency fees until match confirmed. All quotations are Fixed and Flat — no hidden costs.
Can LGBTQ+ intended parents use surrogacy in Connecticut? +
Yes. The Connecticut Parentage Act explicitly provides equal access to surrogacy for all intended parents regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic connection to the child. Married and unmarried LGBTQ+ couples are eligible for pre-birth orders under the same statutory framework as all other intended parents.

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Medical Disclaimer
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Connecticut surrogacy laws, agency compensation figures, and program details are subject to change. Always consult a Connecticut-licensed ART attorney and your medical team before entering any surrogacy agreement.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Nevada (2026)

Nevada has governed gestational surrogacy by statute since 2013 under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 126.500–126.810, and its courts grant pre-birth parentage orders to married couples, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and single individuals regardless of genetic connection. That makes it one of the most inclusive and legally dependable surrogacy destinations in the country.

What sets Nevada apart from most other strong surrogacy states is its no-residency requirement — neither the surrogate nor the intended parents need to live in Nevada for a Nevada journey to proceed. As long as one element of the surrogacy process takes place in the state — the delivery, the contract execution, or the medical procedure — Nevada’s legal protections apply in full.

For families in Arizona, Utah, Idaho, and other Western states with restrictive or uncertain local laws, Nevada offers geographic proximity combined with statutory clarity. Physician’s Surrogacy, the nation’s only OB/GYN-managed surrogacy agency, serves Nevada surrogates and intended parents through the same physician-designed screening program and Flat-Rate Surrogacy model used by families across the Western U.S.

The agency you work with determines the depth of support, medical oversight, and compensation transparency you receive — whether you are an intended parent researching options or a woman exploring what it means to become a surrogate in Nevada.

This guide compares the seven best surrogacy agencies actively serving Nevada in 2026 — covering surrogate compensation, intended parent costs, match timelines, physician oversight, and local Nevada presence — so you can make a fully informed decision before your journey begins.

Key Takeaways

Nevada has governed gestational surrogacy by statute since 2013 under NRS 126.500–126.810 — one of the longest-standing codified surrogacy frameworks in the Western United States.
No residency requirement: neither intended parents nor surrogates are required to live in Nevada for Nevada law to govern the journey — one qualifying connection to the state is sufficient.
Pre-birth parentage orders are routinely available through Nevada district courts for all family structures, including donor-gamete families, same-sex couples, and single parents.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list led by practicing OB/GYNs — a clinical advantage that produces preterm birth rates 50% below the national average through a physician-designed screening protocol.
Nevada has no statute requiring surrogacy agencies to hold a state license — any business can operate as a surrogacy agency in the Silver State. Vetting medical oversight, escrow practices, and legal expertise falls entirely on intended parents and surrogates.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Nevada

The table below compares all seven agencies at a glance. Surrogate pay reflects published first-time surrogate figures; IP totals cover the full journey — not agency fees alone. All figures are as of 2026.

Agency HQ / NV Presence Surrogate Pay (NV) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? Nevada-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA / National Starting at $75,000+ From $145,000 (Flat-Rate) ~1 week avg. Yes — OB/GYNs No (national)
Gestational Concepts Las Vegas, NV Up to $50,000 (published) Not published Not published No Yes
Adoption & Surrogacy Choices of NV Reno + Las Vegas, NV Up to $60,000 $108,000–$156,000+ (excl. IVF) ~18 months total No Yes
Golden Surrogacy Nevada (statewide) $70,000 minimum Not published Not published No Yes
Fertility Source Companies National / NV program $65,000 base $160,000–$175,000 Not published No No
ConceiveAbilities Chicago, IL / Las Vegas presence Not published (NV) $197,500 (All-In program) 2–3 months avg. No No
American Surrogacy Olathe, KS / Serves NV $55,000–$110,000+ (NV) Not published 1–4 months No No

* IP total cost estimates include agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical/IVF, legal, escrow, and insurance — figures excluding IVF are noted. Totals vary by surrogate experience, insurance coverage, and number of transfer cycles; request a full breakdown from each agency.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (National — OB/GYN-Managed)

Quick Facts

HQ: San Diego, CA (serves Nevada families nationally)
Surrogate compensation: starting at $75,000+ for Nevada (HC state tier)
Intended parent cost: Flat-Rate Surrogacy program — four tiers from $145,000
Match time: Average 1 week (vs. 6–12 month industry standard)
Physician-led: Yes — the only agency in the U.S. managed by onsite practicing OB/GYNs
Screening pass rate: ~8% (more than 90% of applicants screened out)
Medically Cleared Program: Eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by practicing OB/GYNs — and that clinical structure produces measurable results. Preterm birth rates among Physician’s Surrogacy carriers run 50% below the national average, driven by a physician-designed screening protocol that accepts roughly 8% of all applicants.

The agency’s physicians conduct peer-to-peer consultations with a Nevada surrogate’s delivering OB — coordination no coordinator-run agency can replicate. For out-of-state intended parents pursuing a Nevada birth journey, the fully national program structure means no geographic barriers. Learn more about our physician-led model.

Nevada is an HC-tier state, meaning PS surrogates here start at $75,000+ — among the highest first-time floors in the country. Surrogates also receive a $1,250 screening completion bonus before pregnancy confirmation. Experienced surrogates can earn more. Intended parents choose from four flat-rate program tiers — Surrogacy Flat Rate ($145,000), Physician Plus ($193,000), Surrogacy Livebirth Guarantee ($208,000), or All Inclusive Bundle ($255,000) — with no agency fees until a match is confirmed. Full detail at our surrogacy cost guide.

For Intended Parents

  • OB/GYN oversight throughout. Practicing physicians lead surrogate screening and coordinate directly with the delivering OB in Nevada — no coordinator-only model.
  • Four-tier Flat-Rate Surrogacy program. Tiers from $145,000 to $255,000 with no agency fees until match confirmation.
  • One-week average match time. The fastest matching performance in the industry, with no waitlist and immediate availability for Nevada families.
  • Medically Cleared Program. Nevada surrogates who complete pre-match medical and psychological clearance eliminate the 3–5 week post-match screening wait. Legal timeline is standard. Available through partner centers only.
  • No-residency-requirement fit. Physician’s Surrogacy’s national program structure works smoothly for out-of-state intended parents pursuing a Nevada birth journey. Browse available surrogates to see the pool.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $75,000+. Nevada is an HC-tier state — one of the highest compensation floors PS offers nationally. Total pay is clear from day one, with no adjustments tied to insurance or location.
  • $1,250 screening completion bonus paid before pregnancy confirmation.
  • Experienced surrogates can earn more on each subsequent journey.
  • Physician oversight protects your health. The physician-designed screening protocol means only the healthiest candidates carry — reducing complication risk for Nevada surrogates and their families.
  • Surrogate age window: 20.5–40.5. BMI below 35 required; women with BMI between 35 and 37 are evaluated case-by-case. Learn more about surrogate requirements.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a 1-week match time — versus the industry standard of 6–12 months. The Medically Cleared Program eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait, compressing the total journey to approximately 14 months from match to live birth. Legal timeline is standard for all surrogates.

Physician’s Surrogacy is headquartered in San Diego — without a physical Las Vegas or Reno office. All clinical coordination connects with Nevada IVF clinics remotely, which suits out-of-state intended parents particularly well.

Best For: Nevada intended parents — especially those coming from other Western states — who want physician-managed clinical oversight, an immediate match, and a fully transparent flat-rate pricing structure. Also ideal for Nevada surrogates who want the highest compensation floor on this list and a pre-match screening bonus.

Only OB/GYN-Managed Agency in the U.S.

Nevada Families Deserve Physician-Led Surrogacy

Nevada’s statute is the Silver State’s foundation. Physician’s Surrogacy is the clinical structure built on top of it — with onsite OB/GYNs that no other agency serving Nevada employs.

Nevada surrogates start at $75,000+ — the HC-tier floor. 10,000+ candidates screened annually. Only ~8% pass.

The pool Nevada families draw from is among the most rigorously vetted in the country.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

2. Gestational Concepts (Las Vegas, Nevada)

Gestational Concepts is a Las Vegas-based agency whose entire staff comes from reproductive endocrinology backgrounds — giving it a deeper clinical vocabulary than most coordinator-run local agencies. The agency focuses on Las Vegas, Henderson, and Spring Valley, where Nevada’s leading IVF clinics are concentrated.

Published compensation is listed up to $50,000 — surrogates and intended parents should contact the agency directly for a full, current breakdown. Reviews from Las Vegas-area surrogates consistently cite personal, responsive communication from matching through delivery.

For Intended Parents

  • Locally rooted Las Vegas team. On-the-ground relationships with Nevada’s IVF clinics, reproductive attorneys, psychologists, and escrow partners.
  • Reproductive endocrinology staff background. Team members bring direct clinical experience that supports more informed coordination between agency, fertility clinic, and delivering OB.
  • Established Nevada fertility clinic relationships. Active working partnerships with the Fertility Center of Las Vegas and Nevada Fertility Center.
  • LGBTQ+ and inclusive matching. Serves all family structures without restriction.

For Surrogates

  • Dedicated Las Vegas case management. Surrogates in the Las Vegas metro work with a locally present team — not remote coordinators managing from out of state.
  • Clinically knowledgeable support team. Staff reproductive endocrinology backgrounds mean questions about medications, monitoring, and transfer procedures get substantive answers.
  • Published compensation up to $50,000. Contact directly for the complete benefits structure and current first-time surrogate rates.

Gestational Concepts does not publish IP total costs or average match times. Its $50,000 compensation ceiling is lower than several agencies here — surrogates who want a higher guaranteed minimum should compare against Golden Surrogacy and Physician’s Surrogacy.

Best For: Nevada surrogates in the Las Vegas metro who want a locally present team with clinical staff experience. Intended parents who prioritize established local fertility clinic relationships and personalized in-market support.

3. Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada (Reno & Las Vegas)

Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada is the state’s only non-profit, 501(c)(3) licensed surrogacy agency, with dual locations in Reno and Las Vegas — the only agency on this list present in both major Nevada cities. Founded in 2012, it handles matching, screening, legal coordination, escrow, and ongoing support as a single integrated operation.

The non-profit structure means operating resources go back into service quality rather than profit distribution — a distinction some families weigh when evaluating long-term support depth.

The agency publishes IP total costs of $108,000–$156,000 excluding IVF — one of the most transparent cost disclosures in the Nevada market. Surrogate pay and benefits can reach up to $60,000, with the overall journey timeline approximately 18 months from sign-on to birth.

For Intended Parents

  • Only non-profit agency in Nevada. 501(c)(3) status means operating resources go toward service quality rather than profit distribution.
  • Dual Nevada offices — Reno and Las Vegas. The only agency on this list with in-person presence in both major Nevada cities.
  • Published cost range: $108,000–$156,000 (excl. IVF). One of the most transparent IP cost disclosures among Nevada-based agencies.
  • Full-service integration. Matching, legal coordination, medical coordination, escrow, and support handled as a single integrated operation.
  • International and LGBTQ+ experience. Serves families from across the U.S. and internationally with equal access regardless of family structure.

For Surrogates

  • Rigorously screened surrogate pool. A thorough screening process that protects both surrogates and intended parents from poor matches.
  • Surrogate pay and benefits up to $60,000. Factors include the surrogate’s location, insurance, and experience level.
  • Dual-city support. Surrogates in both Reno and Las Vegas have access to local support staff rather than remote-only coordination.
  • Non-profit mission orientation. The agency’s published values center surrogate well-being as part of its organizational mission, not just as a business requirement.

The published cost range excludes IVF, which adds $25,000–$35,000+ depending on clinic and number of transfer cycles. Physician’s Surrogacy, Golden Surrogacy, and Fertility Source Companies all publish higher surrogate compensation floors.

Best For: Intended parents and surrogates who want Nevada’s only licensed non-profit agency with in-person offices in both Reno and Las Vegas. Particularly well-suited to domestic and international families who value organizational mission alignment alongside service quality.

4. Golden Surrogacy (Nevada)

Golden Surrogacy has operated statewide in Nevada for over a decade, serving Las Vegas, Reno, North Las Vegas, Paradise, Henderson, and surrounding communities. The agency publishes a $70,000 guaranteed minimum for first-time surrogates — and explicitly commits to never using “up to” language that masks a lower actual figure.

Golden was co-founded by former intended parents, and its team includes multiple former surrogates. Pre-pregnancy payments total $12,500 before confirmation, and all funds are held in third-party escrow before any medical procedures begin.

For Intended Parents

  • Statewide Nevada coverage. Active matching across the entire state — not limited to the Las Vegas metro.
  • Founder-led empathy. Co-founded by former intended parents who understand the process from the IP perspective.
  • Escrow-first policy. All funds must be deposited in a third-party escrow account before any medical procedures begin — protecting both sides from financial exposure.
  • LGBTQ+ inclusive. Serves all family structures regardless of sexual orientation, marital status, or genetic connection to the child.

For Surrogates

  • $70,000 guaranteed minimum. No “up to” language — $70,000 is the floor for all first-time Nevada surrogates, regardless of location or insurance status.
  • Pre-pregnancy payments totaling $12,500. One of the strongest pre-confirmation payment structures available to Nevada surrogates.
  • Compensation not adjusted for location or insurance. Golden does not reduce surrogate pay based on factors many other agencies use to lower the effective rate.
  • Experienced surrogate premium. Repeat surrogates earn more — total packages can reach $75,000 or above based on journey history.

Golden does not publish IP total costs or average match times — intended parents should request a full breakdown during the consultation. Compensation transparency is the agency’s clearest public strength; IP-side cost clarity lags behind Fertility Source Companies and Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada.

Best For: Nevada surrogates who want the clearest guaranteed compensation minimum available from a locally active agency. Intended parents who want a co-founder team with lived IP experience and statewide matching coverage.

5. Fertility Source Companies (National — Nevada Program)

Fertility Source Companies (FSC) publishes more Nevada-specific financial data than most agencies: first-time surrogates earn a $65,000 base, paid in eight installments from confirmed fetal heartbeat, plus $1,500 bonuses at medical and legal clearance. On the IP side, total journey costs run $160,000–$175,000, with the agency fee structured in milestone-tied installments.

All coordination runs through FSC’s national case management team, with matching drawing from a nationwide database that includes domestic and international families. FSC uses base compensation language — worth understanding before comparing figures directly against Physician’s Surrogacy’s flat-rate package. See our guide to surrogate pay for a breakdown of how agency models differ.

For Intended Parents

  • Published total cost range: $160,000–$175,000. One of the clearest IP-facing total cost disclosures available for Nevada journeys.
  • Agency fee paid in installments. Fee structure is milestone-tied, reducing upfront financial exposure at journey start.
  • National surrogate pool. Nevada intended parents access FSC’s nationwide database of pre-screened surrogates, not limited to in-state candidates.
  • Financing options available. Partnerships with Prosper Healthcare Lending, CAPEXMD, and fertility-specific lenders reduce the financial barrier to entry.

For Surrogates

  • $65,000 published base for Nevada. Eight-payment installment structure beginning at fetal heartbeat confirmation, with additional expense allowance.
  • $1,500 medical clearance bonus + $1,500 legal clearance bonus. Milestone payments supplement base compensation.
  • Access to domestic and international intended parents. Nevada surrogates can match with a broader IP pool than local-only agencies provide.
  • Surrogate age requirement: 21–43. A broader age window than some agencies; confirms requirements during screening.

FSC has no physical Nevada office — all coordination is remote. Its $160,000–$175,000 total cost range is higher than Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada’s published range, so budget-conscious families should compare both closely.

Best For: Nevada intended parents who want a clearly published total journey cost estimate before engaging and access to a national surrogate pool. Nevada surrogates who want a clearly posted base compensation figure with structured milestone bonuses.

6. ConceiveAbilities (Chicago, IL — Las Vegas Presence)

ConceiveAbilities has served Nevada families for over two decades with a Las Vegas-facing program backed by one of the largest surrogacy agency infrastructures in the U.S. Its internal legal team is experienced with Nevada’s pre-birth order process, and it is one of the more active agencies matching Nevada surrogates with international intended parents.

The All-In Surrogacy Program at $197,500 bundles most journey costs into one price: unlimited rematches, additional transfer cycles, maternity insurance, and lost wages coverage for a surrogate’s spouse. The Matching Matters™ process claims a 97% first-introduction acceptance rate, though Nevada match times average 2–3 months.

For Intended Parents

  • $197,500 All-In program. Comprehensive fixed-price structure that covers unlimited rematches and transfer cycles, reducing financial unpredictability.
  • 25+ years of Nevada legal familiarity. Internal legal team experienced with Nevada pre-birth order filings under NRS 126.720.
  • International IP program. Serves families from 70+ countries, including international parents who want Nevada’s accessible, residence-free framework.
  • LGBTQ+ focused matching. Strong track record serving all family structures, including those in the Las Vegas LGBTQ+ community.

For Surrogates

  • Global intended parent pool. Nevada surrogates matched through ConceiveAbilities can connect with families from across the U.S. and internationally.
  • Nevada surrogate compensation not published publicly; discussed during intake.
  • Established support infrastructure. Decades of experience mean surrogate case management processes are well-documented and consistently applied.

At $197,500, ConceiveAbilities sits well above both Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada and Fertility Source Companies. The 2–3 month match time is notably slower than Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average.

Best For: Nevada intended parents — particularly international families leveraging Nevada’s no-residency-requirement framework — who want maximum financial predictability through an all-inclusive fixed-price model.

7. American Surrogacy (National — Nevada Program)

American Surrogacy is headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, with an active Nevada program and one of the widest published compensation ranges in the state: $55,000–$110,000+ for first-time surrogates. The agency publishes a 1–4 month match time and operates on a 1:1 surrogate-to-intended parent ratio.

The Limited Risk Program covers unlimited rematches and refunds on specified unused fees if no embryos remain and no birth has occurred. It also includes a Parent Protection Fee designed to reduce exposure to unexpected cost escalation.

For Intended Parents

  • Limited Risk Program. Financial protection against repeated failed transfers and unused-fee losses — relevant for Nevada journeys involving complex medical histories.
  • 1–4 month published match time. Faster than the industry standard of 6–12 months, though slower than Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average.
  • Published detailed cost estimates. The agency builds cost breakdowns for individual journeys rather than publishing a single fixed price.
  • Nevada-specific legal familiarity. Works with Nevada ART attorneys experienced in NRS 126.500–126.810 compliance and pre-birth order filings.

For Surrogates

  • $55,000–$110,000+ published NV range. The widest published first-time surrogate compensation range among agencies in this comparison.
  • Monthly payment structure. Base pay distributed in monthly installments after pregnancy confirmation, providing consistent financial support through gestation.
  • Statewide Nevada coverage. Active across Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson, and surrounding communities.

American Surrogacy does not publish an IP total cost figure for Nevada, and surrogate screening relies on contracted medical professionals rather than an onsite clinical team. Fertility Source Companies and Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada both offer more upfront cost transparency.

Best For: Nevada surrogates who want a clearly published state-specific pay range with an experienced surrogate premium. Intended parents who want financial downside protection through the Limited Risk Program and a match timeline faster than the industry standard.

Nevada Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

Nevada has governed gestational surrogacy by statute since 2013 — one of the earliest Western states to codify the practice. The governing framework is NRS 126.500–126.810, covering eligibility, contract requirements, parentage, and compensation.

For a broader look at how Nevada compares nationally, see our surrogacy laws by state guide. Here is what the statute means in practice in 2026.

  • Gestational surrogacy is expressly permitted by statute. NRS 126.500–126.810 establishes Nevada as a gestational surrogacy-permissive state with a detailed regulatory structure. Under NRS 126.580, a gestational carrier is defined as a woman who bears a child using gametes from other persons — not her own.
  • Traditional surrogacy is legally risky. Nevada’s statute does not cover traditional surrogacy. Most Nevada ART attorneys strongly advise against it given the elevated legal risk to all parties.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders are routinely granted. Nevada district courts issue pre-birth orders for married couples, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and single individuals regardless of genetic connection. Under NRS 126.720, the court order validating the gestational agreement also establishes intended parents as the child’s legal parents — and directs the birth certificate to name them from birth. Orders can generally be obtained in days to weeks, often without a hearing.
  • No residency requirement. Neither intended parents nor surrogates are required to live in Nevada for Nevada’s legal framework to apply. At least one qualifying connection to the state is sufficient — the delivery occurring in Nevada, the gestational agreement being executed in Nevada, or the medical procedures for assisted reproduction taking place in the state.
  • Independent legal counsel is mandatory for both parties. Under NRS 126.740, a prospective gestational carrier must undergo legal consultation with independent legal counsel before the agreement is executed. Intended parents must also have separate independent representation. The gestational agreement must be executed before any medical procedures related to the surrogacy take place — other than the medical evaluation for carrier eligibility.
  • The gestational agreement must be in writing and notarized. Under NRS 126.750, the agreement must be in written form, signed, and notarized within Nevada to be valid. A copy must be attached to the pre-birth order petition per NRS 126.720.
  • Compensated surrogacy is explicitly permitted. Under NRS 126.810, consideration paid to a gestational carrier must be negotiated in good faith and must not be conditioned on gamete quality or genetic traits. Nevada expressly recognizes payment for the surrogate’s time, trouble, and inconvenience — one of the most direct statutory acknowledgments of compensated surrogacy in the Western U.S.
  • Donors have no parental rights. Under NRS 126.660, a donor is not a parent of a child conceived by assisted reproduction. This protects donor-gamete families — including same-sex couples using egg or sperm donors — and makes Nevada one of the most inclusive states for non-genetic intended parents.
  • No Nevada agency licensing requirement. Nevada statutes do not require surrogacy agencies to hold a state license to operate. The law governs the contract, the parties, and the parentage — not the agencies coordinating the journey. Vetting any agency’s qualifications, financial handling, and medical oversight falls entirely on intended parents and surrogates.

Tip:
Nevada’s no-residency requirement is powerful for Western families in states with more restrictive local laws — but it comes with a specific technical obligation: the gestational agreement must be signed and notarized in Nevada to be valid for pre-birth order purposes. This means at least one trip to Nevada is required before medical procedures begin. Confirm this timing with a Nevada-licensed ART attorney before scheduling your legal and medical steps. Understanding what surrogacy contracts cover before you sign is equally important.

What to Look for in a Nevada Surrogacy Agency

Nevada’s statute creates a strong legal foundation — but it sets no standards for the agencies that coordinate journeys under it. Because any entity can operate as a surrogacy agency in Nevada without a license, the quality of clinical oversight, financial transparency, and surrogate support varies widely. These five criteria separate agencies that will serve you well from those that leave critical gaps. See also our guide to choosing a surrogacy agency.

  • Clinical oversight depth. Ask who screens the surrogates and what clinical credentials they hold. Coordinator-led screening outsources all medical judgment to contracted fertility clinics; physician-led models keep clinical responsibility onsite. The difference affects accountability when a complication arises — and the data shows it affects preterm birth rates measurably.
  • Compensation transparency before you apply. Nevada’s market spans a wide range — from $50,000 published ceilings at some local agencies to $75,000+ guaranteed minimums through Physician’s Surrogacy. Ask whether the published figure is a true guaranteed minimum or a maximum that most surrogates fall below. Confirm how compensation is structured: flat-rate packages and base compensation installment models produce different cash-flow profiles for surrogates. Our avoiding agency scams covers the red flags to watch for.
  • Escrow structure and timing. Nevada law does not mandate escrow — agencies treat it differently. An agency that does not require all intended parent funds in third-party escrow before medical procedures begin creates real payment-security risk for surrogates. Confirm escrow policy in writing before signing.
  • Nevada-specific ART legal network. Nevada has only a small number of attorneys with active ART practice experience under NRS 126.500–126.810. Ask each agency which Nevada attorneys they recommend and whether those attorneys have filed multiple pre-birth orders under NRS 126.720.
  • No-residency-requirement readiness. For out-of-state intended parents and surrogates, ask whether the agency has documented experience coordinating journeys where surrogate and IPs live in different states — including the logistical sequencing of notarized agreement execution in Nevada.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

This comparison was built on direct research into each agency’s publicly available materials, published compensation and cost data, Nevada legal affiliations, and verifiable state presence. Five criteria were applied consistently across all seven agencies.

1

Medical Oversight

We assessed whether each agency employs practicing physicians in a clinical oversight role versus outsourcing all medical judgment to contracted fertility clinics. Onsite OB/GYN leadership was weighted heavily — Nevada’s statute places no minimum bar on agency medical qualifications, so the difference matters entirely in practice.

2

Compensation Transparency

We documented whether agencies publish verifiable Nevada-specific surrogate compensation figures and whether those figures are true take-home pay or inflated totals including reimbursable expenses. Agencies publishing guaranteed first-time minimums received higher marks than those listing maximums or vague ranges.

3

IP Total Cost Clarity

We reviewed whether agencies publish total journey cost ranges — not just agency fee lines — so intended parents can evaluate full financial exposure before engaging. Agencies with all-inclusive or flat-rate pricing and published totals scored higher than those requiring an intake call before any numbers are shared.

4

Nevada Legal Expertise

We assessed each agency’s demonstrated familiarity with NRS 126.500–126.810, pre-birth order filing practice under NRS 126.720, the notarization-in-Nevada requirement, and connections to Nevada-licensed ART attorneys with active gestational surrogacy practice.

5

Nevada Presence and Match Speed

We recorded published average match times and assessed physical Nevada presence — whether an agency maintains a Las Vegas or Reno office versus coordinating remotely. Both factors affect how quickly a journey can begin and how practically supported Nevada families are during the process.

6

No-Residency Readiness

We assessed whether each agency has documented experience coordinating Nevada journeys where the surrogate and intended parents live in different states — including proper sequencing of notarized agreement execution in Nevada. This is a common scenario unique to Nevada’s legal framework.

 

Editorial Disclosure:
This article is published by Physician’s Surrogacy. Agency 1 in this list is Physician’s Surrogacy, which produced this content. All competitor information is drawn from publicly available sources including agency websites, published compensation schedules, and legal materials current as of 2026. No external agency paid for placement or editorial review. We do not link to competitor websites.

Starting Your Nevada Surrogacy Journey: Where to Begin

Nevada’s no-residency requirement and its 2013 statute make the Silver State a reliable destination for families across the Western U.S. — particularly those in Arizona, Utah, and Idaho where local laws are less settled. The legal protections are real, but Nevada’s law does not regulate the agencies that coordinate journeys under it — that vetting falls entirely on you.

The best surrogacy agencies in Nevada take genuinely different approaches: local offices vs. national reach, published fee structures vs. intake-only pricing, coordinator-led screening vs. physician oversight. Only one agency on this list has onsite OB/GYNs managing the screening process — which is why its preterm birth rates run 50% below the national average and its Nevada surrogate compensation floor ($75,000+) is the highest on this list.

Surrogacy sits at the intersection of modern medicine and profound human generosity. The families who move through this process most smoothly are the ones who ask the hardest questions upfront — about who performs screening, what the total cost actually looks like, and how long they should expect to wait. In Nevada, you now have the information to ask all three.


Ready to Start in Nevada?

Nevada’s Best Legal Framework. The Nation’s Only Physician-Led Agency.

Nevada surrogates and intended parents both deserve physician-led oversight, pricing transparency, and a match within weeks — not months.

Nevada surrogates start at $75,000+ — the highest HC-tier floor. Average match: 1 week. Preterm birth rates 50% below the national average.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Nevada? +
Yes. Nevada has permitted gestational surrogacy by statute since 2013 under NRS 126.500–126.810. Compensated surrogacy is explicitly allowed. Pre-birth orders are routinely granted for all family structures. Traditional surrogacy falls outside the statute’s protections.
Do I have to live in Nevada to use a Nevada surrogacy agency? +
No. Nevada has no residency requirement for surrogacy. At least one qualifying connection to the state is needed — such as the delivery, contract execution, or medical procedure occurring in Nevada — for its legal protections to apply in full.
How much do surrogates get paid in Nevada? +
First-time surrogate compensation in Nevada starts at $75,000+ through Physician’s Surrogacy — Nevada is an HC-tier state, one of the highest compensation floors nationally. Other agencies on this list publish figures ranging from $50,000 to $70,000+ guaranteed minimums.
How much does surrogacy cost for intended parents in Nevada? +
Total Nevada surrogacy costs typically range from $108,000 (excl. IVF) to $200,000+ depending on the agency, surrogate compensation, and medical complexity. Physician’s Surrogacy’s Flat-Rate program starts at $145,000 across four published tiers with no agency fee until match confirmation.
Can LGBTQ+ intended parents use surrogacy in Nevada? +
Yes. Nevada law permits surrogacy for all intended parents regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic connection to the child. Under NRS 126.660, donors have no parental rights. Pre-birth orders name both intended parents on the birth certificate from delivery.

!

Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Nevada surrogacy laws, agency compensation figures, and program details are subject to change. Always consult a Nevada-licensed ART attorney and your medical team before entering any surrogacy agreement.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Colorado (2026)

Colorado’s legal protections for surrogacy are among the most clearly written in the country — but the law can only take you so far. Once you’ve confirmed the state is a safe place to pursue a gestational journey, the harder question is which agency you trust with every step between application and delivery.

With world-class fertility clinics clustered around Denver, pre-birth parentage orders granted routinely by Colorado courts, and compensated surrogacy explicitly recognized in statute, the Centennial State draws families from across the United States and internationally.

Physician’s Surrogacy, the nation’s only OB/GYN-managed surrogacy agency, matches and supports Colorado families through a physician-designed screening protocol and a Flat-Rate Surrogacy program that eliminates the hidden-fee model common at other agencies.

For an intended parent weighing agency options — or a woman in Denver, Boulder, or Colorado Springs exploring what it takes to become a surrogate — the agency you choose will shape every step of the journey.

This guide compares the seven best surrogacy agencies serving Colorado in 2026. Each entry covers surrogate compensation, intended parent costs, match timelines, physician oversight, and Colorado-specific presence — so you can make a confident, informed decision before you begin.

Key Takeaways

Colorado enacted the Colorado Surrogacy Agreement Act in 2021 (C.R.S. § 19-4.5-101 et seq.), establishing a codified, inclusive legal framework — one of the strongest surrogacy statutes in the United States.
Colorado courts routinely grant pre-birth parentage orders (PBOs), meaning intended parents are recognized on their child’s birth certificate from delivery — without post-birth adoption proceedings.
First-time surrogate compensation in Colorado starts at $67,000+ through Physician’s Surrogacy. Experienced surrogates can earn more. Figures vary by agency.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list managed by practicing OB/GYNs — a clinical advantage that holds preterm birth rates 50% below the national average through a physician-designed screening protocol.
Colorado has no agency licensing requirement — meaning any business can operate as a surrogacy agency in the state. Vetting an agency’s medical oversight, legal expertise, and compensation transparency is the responsibility of the intended parent or surrogate.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Colorado

Here is a quick comparison of the seven agencies reviewed in this article. Surrogate pay figures reflect published first-time surrogate compensation ranges. IP total cost estimates reflect full journey costs including agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance — not agency fees alone. All figures are as of 2026.

Agency HQ / CO Presence Surrogate Pay (CO) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? Colorado-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA / National Starting at $67,000+ From $145,000 (Flat-Rate) ~1 week avg. Yes — OB/GYNs No (national)
Bright Futures Families Aurora, CO (CO-based) $50,000–$65,000 (GC-set) $150,000–$200,000+ Not published No Yes
Golden Surrogacy Colorado-based $70,000 min. Not published Not published No Yes
Fertility Source Companies National / Denver presence $65,000 base Not published Not published No No
ConceiveAbilities Chicago, IL / Denver office Not published (CO) $197,500 (All-In program) 2–3 months avg. No No
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA / Serves CO Not published (CO) Not published Not published No No
American Surrogacy Olathe, KS / Denver team $55,000–$90,000+ (CO) Not published 1–4 months No No

* IP total cost estimates include agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical/IVF, legal, escrow, and insurance. They do not represent agency fees alone. Exact costs vary by surrogate experience, insurance coverage, number of transfer cycles, and individual journey circumstances. Contact each agency for a personalized cost estimate.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (National — OB/GYN-Managed)

Quick Facts

HQ: San Diego, CA (serves Colorado families nationally)
Surrogate compensation: starting at $67,000+ for Colorado
Intended parent cost: Flat-Rate Surrogacy program — four tiers from $145,000
Match time: Average 1 week (vs. 6–12 month industry standard)
Physician-led: Yes — the only agency in the U.S. managed by practicing OB/GYNs
Screening pass rate: ~8% (more than 90% of applicants screened out)
Medically Cleared Program: Eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by a team of practicing OB/GYNs — and that distinction has direct, measurable consequences for Colorado families. Preterm birth rates among Physician’s Surrogacy carriers run 50% below the national average.

For Colorado intended parents, that clinical advantage combines with unmatched logistics. The physician-designed screening protocol accepts roughly 8% of applicants — meaning the pool Colorado families draw from has already cleared one of the most rigorous pre-screening processes in the industry. You can learn more about what makes this approach different from a standard agency model.

The agency’s specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatal care, and OB/GYNs conduct peer-to-peer consultations with a surrogate’s delivering OB — a coordination step no other agency can replicate. Colorado’s IVF clinics, including CCRM and Shady Grove’s Denver locations, work alongside this structure without friction.

The Flat-Rate Surrogacy model eliminates the itemized-fee approach common elsewhere. Intended parents choose from four transparent program tiers — Surrogacy Flat Rate ($145,000), Physician Plus ($193,000), Surrogacy Livebirth Guarantee ($208,000), or the All Inclusive Bundle ($255,000) — with no agency fees due until a match is confirmed. See a full breakdown of how much surrogacy costs for intended parents.

Colorado surrogates receive a flat-rate package starting at $67,000+, plus a $1,250 screening completion bonus. Experienced surrogates can earn more. Learn more about surrogate compensation and what’s included in the flat-rate model.

For Intended Parents

  • OB/GYN leadership throughout. Physicians — not coordinators — oversee clinical screening and coordinate directly with the surrogate’s delivering OB in Colorado.
  • Four-tier Flat-Rate Surrogacy program. Tiers from $145,000 to $255,000 with no agency fees due until match confirmation.
  • One-week average match time. The fastest matching track in the industry — months ahead of the 6–12 month agency standard.
  • Medically Cleared Program. Surrogates who complete medical and psychological clearance before matching eliminate the 3–5 week post-match screening wait. Legal timeline is standard. Available through partner centers only.
  • Available surrogates, ready now. Immediate matching availability means Colorado intended parents can begin their journey without the open-ended delays common at other agencies. Browse available surrogates to see the pool.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $67,000+. Total compensation is clear from day one — no surprise deductions, no fine-print adjustments tied to insurance or location.
  • $1,250 screening completion bonus. Paid to every approved applicant before pregnancy confirmation.
  • Experienced surrogates can earn more depending on journey history and circumstances.
  • Physician oversight protects your health. The physician-designed screening protocol means only the healthiest candidates match — reducing complication risk for Colorado surrogates and their families.
  • Surrogate age window: 20.5–40.5. BMI below 35 required; women with BMI between 35 and 37 are still encouraged to apply and evaluated case-by-case.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a 1-week match time — compared to the industry standard of 6–12 months. The Medically Cleared Program eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait, compressing the total journey to approximately 14 months from match to live birth (vs. 30–36 months industry average).

The trade-off most Colorado families note is geographic: Physician’s Surrogacy is headquartered in San Diego, not Denver. All clinical coordination connects with Colorado’s IVF clinics remotely — a model that works smoothly for most journeys but may feel different from a local storefront experience.

For families who prioritize medical authority, pricing transparency, and matching speed over a local office, Physician’s Surrogacy is the strongest option available to Colorado intended parents and surrogates today.

Best For: Colorado intended parents who want physician-managed oversight, the fastest possible match, and a fully transparent flat-rate pricing model. Also ideal for Colorado surrogates who want a flat-rate compensation package with a pre-match screening bonus.

Only OB/GYN-Managed Agency in the U.S.

Colorado Families Deserve Physician-Led Surrogacy

No other agency on this list puts practicing OB/GYNs in charge of surrogate screening. That one difference produces measurably safer outcomes — and a 1-week average match time no local Colorado agency comes close to.

Preterm birth rates 50% below the national average. 10,000+ candidates screened annually. Only 8% pass.

The pool Colorado families draw from is already one of the most rigorously vetted in the country.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

2. Bright Futures Families (Aurora, Colorado)

Bright Futures Families — formerly operating locally as Colorado Surrogacy — is the most established Colorado-based full-service surrogacy agency in the state. The agency is co-founded by Ellen Trachman, a Colorado attorney and founding partner of Trachman Law Center specializing in surrogacy law, giving Bright Futures a legal foundation most agencies do not have built in.

The team is composed largely of former surrogates and professionals with direct third-party reproduction experience. The agency operates a regional model, serving primarily domestic intended parents across Colorado and partner regions.

Bright Futures holds memberships in SEEDS (Society for Ethical Egg Donation and Surrogacy), ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine), and multiple Colorado LGBTQ+ and military family organizations. Agency fees are structured in installments, with no fees before a match is confirmed.

For Intended Parents

  • Colorado-rooted legal expertise. Co-founder Ellen Trachman’s surrogacy law practice provides deep familiarity with Colorado courts and parentage procedures.
  • Local, personalized matching. Serves primarily Colorado and domestic intended parents — surrogates and IPs often share geographic proximity.
  • No fees before match confirmation. The first agency installment ($19,500) is due only after both parties accept the match.
  • LGBTQ+ inclusive. Staff members hold leadership positions in Colorado LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, LGBT Family Law Institute, and Men Having Babies.
  • Free initial consultations. No upfront cost to explore the agency’s process and fee structure.

For Surrogates

  • Surrogate-set base compensation. Gestational carriers choose their own base compensation amount, with agency advocacy to support that negotiation.
  • Published pay transparency. Bright Futures explicitly separates true compensation from expense reimbursements — so surrogates know exactly what goes in their pocket.
  • Team of former surrogates. Case managers include women who have personally completed multiple surrogacy journeys.
  • All-domestic intended parents only. Surrogates work exclusively with U.S.-based families, supporting closer relationships throughout the journey.

The agency does not publish match time averages or an IP total cost figure publicly. The compensation model, while transparent, means base pay varies by individual surrogate rather than following a posted rate. Colorado surrogates who want a guaranteed minimum figure may prefer an agency that publishes one.

Best For: Colorado families who want a locally rooted agency with deep legal expertise, a team of former surrogates, and a relationship-first matching philosophy. Strong choice for LGBTQ+ intended parents and U.S.-only journeys.

3. Golden Surrogacy (Colorado)

Golden Surrogacy is a Colorado-based agency that has focused on in-state matching for over a decade, serving surrogates and intended parents across Denver, Aurora, Colorado Springs, Boulder, Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, and surrounding communities. The agency publishes one of the most straightforward compensation guarantees in the state: a $70,000 minimum for first-time surrogates, with the founders publicly committed to never using vague “up to” marketing language.

The agency was co-founded by former intended parents — a background that shapes its service model and makes it particularly attentive to the emotional dimensions of the process on the IP side. Golden Surrogacy requires all funds to be placed in escrow before medical procedures begin. The agency does not adjust surrogate compensation based on location, insurance status, or employment.

For Intended Parents

  • Founder-led empathy. Agency founders experienced the intended parent journey personally, informing how the agency handles the emotional dimensions of the process.
  • Colorado-wide coverage. Active matching across all major Colorado communities — not limited to the Denver metro.
  • Escrow-first policy. All funds deposited in a secure third-party escrow account before any medical steps begin.
  • LGBTQ+ friendly. Serves traditional heterosexual couples, single parents, and LGBTQ+ families without restriction.
  • Pre-pregnancy payments total $12,500. Intended parents should factor this into journey budgeting.

For Surrogates

  • $70,000 guaranteed minimum. The agency does not use “up to” language — the $70,000 figure is a floor, not a ceiling.
  • No compensation adjustments for location or insurance. Pay is not reduced based on where a surrogate lives or whether she carries insurance.
  • Pre-pregnancy payments of $12,500 are built into the standard compensation structure before pregnancy is confirmed.
  • Experienced surrogate premium. Repeat surrogates can earn $75,000 or more.

Golden Surrogacy does not publish IP total journey costs or average match times publicly, which limits true comparison against agencies that provide full cost breakdowns. The agency’s scope remains primarily Colorado and nearby states — which limits the volume of intended parents available for matching but supports closer geographic relationships.

Best For: Colorado surrogates who want a strong guaranteed minimum compensation and a locally rooted agency with a decade of in-state experience. Also a solid option for Colorado intended parents who want a founder-led, community-focused agency.

4. Fertility Source Companies (National — Colorado Presence)

Fertility Source Companies (FSC) is a nationally operating agency with an established Colorado program and active partnerships with leading IVF clinics in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, and beyond — including CCRM’s multiple Colorado locations and Shady Grove’s Denver center. FSC publishes a clearly stated first-time surrogate base compensation of $65,000 in Colorado, paid in eight installments after fetal heartbeat confirmation, with additional milestone bonuses of $1,500 at medical clearance and $1,500 at legal clearance.

FSC’s case management model assigns dedicated coordinators throughout the journey. The agency’s clinic relationships in Colorado give it practical logistical advantages — surrogates can access FSC’s partner clinics throughout the state rather than traveling to a single location.

For Intended Parents

  • Established Colorado clinic partnerships. Working relationships with CCRM Denver, CCRM Colorado Springs, CCRM Lone Tree, CCRM Louisville, and Shady Grove Colorado.
  • National surrogate pool. Access to a large database of pre-screened surrogates, not limited to Colorado residents.
  • Dedicated case management. Assigned coordinators handle appointment logistics, travel arrangements, and ongoing journey support.
  • Financing options available. Partnerships with Prosper Healthcare Lending, CAPEXMD, and other fertility finance providers.

For Surrogates

  • $65,000 published base for first-time Colorado surrogates. Clear posted figure with an 8-payment installment structure beginning at confirmed fetal heartbeat.
  • $1,500 medical clearance bonus + $1,500 legal clearance bonus. Milestone payments in addition to base compensation.
  • Strict age requirement: 21–43. Confirms requirements during screening.
  • Citizenship required. FSC requires U.S. citizenship for surrogate candidates, alongside a stable, smoke-free home environment.

FSC does not publish a total IP journey cost figure. The agency’s national scale means coordinators may carry larger caseloads than smaller local agencies. For those who prioritize established clinic relationships and a nationally vetted surrogate database, FSC offers strong infrastructure in Colorado.

Best For: Colorado intended parents who want a nationally established agency with direct clinic partnerships across the state. Colorado surrogates who want a clearly published base compensation figure and structured milestone bonuses.

5. ConceiveAbilities (Chicago, IL — Denver Office)

ConceiveAbilities is one of the largest and most experienced surrogacy agencies in the United States, operating since 1996 with a Denver office serving Colorado families directly.

The agency has built its national reputation on structured matching — its Matching Matters™ system evaluates personality, communication style, values, and expectations alongside clinical criteria — and on its All-In Surrogacy Program, a fixed-fee IP model priced at $197,500. That program bundles most journey costs including unlimited rematches, maternity insurance, lost wages coverage for a surrogate’s spouse, and extra transfer cycles.

ConceiveAbilities has particular depth in Colorado, citing over 25 years of relationships with the state’s fertility and obstetrical community. The agency claims a 97% first-introduction match success rate through its Matching Matters™ process, though Colorado-specific match times average two to three months.

For Intended Parents

  • $197,500 All-In program. One fixed price that includes unlimited rematches, additional transfer cycles, surrogate insurance coverage for common policy gaps, and lost wages for a surrogate’s spouse.
  • Denver office available. In-person consultations in Denver distinguish this agency from purely national remote programs.
  • 25+ years of Colorado clinic relationships. Deep history with CCRM, Shady Grove Colorado, and Denver-area reproductive medicine specialists.
  • Internal legal team. In-house fertility law support alongside the matching and coordination function.

For Surrogates

  • Access to a national intended parent pool. ConceiveAbilities works with domestic and international IPs, widening matching options for Colorado surrogates.
  • 25-year track record. Long-established agency with a documented history of surrogate support across thousands of journeys.
  • Colorado surrogate compensation is not published publicly; figures are provided during the intake process.

At $197,500, ConceiveAbilities’ All-In program sits at the higher end of the national cost range. The 2–3 month average match time extends the journey timeline compared to faster-matching programs. Families who prioritize financial predictability and maximum coverage against unexpected costs may find the All-In structure worth the premium.

Best For: Colorado intended parents who want financial certainty, an all-inclusive cost structure, and a nationally established agency with a direct Denver presence.

6. Circle Surrogacy (Boston, MA — Serves Colorado)

Circle Surrogacy is one of the longest-running surrogacy agencies in the United States, operating since 1995 and serving intended parents from more than 70 countries.

The agency’s legal expertise is its most cited advantage — Circle has built a national reputation for handling complex multi-country parentage situations and navigating state-specific legal requirements with confidence. Colorado families benefit from Circle’s familiarity with the state’s Surrogacy Agreement Act, pre-birth order processes, and voluntary acknowledgment procedures at the hospital.

Circle serves Colorado from its national staff network across Boston, New York, California, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and London. Its MatchMade™ system focuses on relationship compatibility alongside clinical criteria — an approach Circle credits for healthier long-term IP-surrogate relationships.

For Intended Parents

  • 30 years of legal expertise. Particularly strong for international intended parents and complex multi-jurisdiction parentage situations.
  • Global IP pool. Serves families from 70+ countries, giving Colorado surrogates access to a wide range of matching candidates.
  • Comprehensive journey support. Assigned case managers guide both parties from matching through the post-birth transition.
  • Strong state-specific track record. Circle publishes state-specific legal guidance and maintains familiarity with Colorado court processes.

For Surrogates

  • Access to a diverse IP pool. Colorado surrogates may match with families from across the U.S. and internationally.
  • Established legal support. Circle’s legal team understands Colorado’s parentage framework thoroughly, reducing surrogate legal uncertainty.
  • Colorado surrogate compensation not published publicly; discussed during intake.

Circle does not publish Colorado-specific surrogate compensation ranges or IP total cost figures publicly. The absence of a Colorado office means local families work with a remote coordination model from day one. Circle is most compelling for Colorado intended parents whose journey involves international legal complexity or who have received referrals from Circle’s international network.

Best For: Colorado intended parents with international backgrounds or complex multi-jurisdiction parentage needs, and Colorado surrogates interested in matching with international families.

7. American Surrogacy (Olathe, KS — Denver Team)

American Surrogacy is a nationally operating agency headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, with an active Colorado program and a Denver-area team. The agency publishes Colorado-specific surrogate compensation data, citing first-time surrogate pay ranging from $55,000 to $90,000+ and experienced surrogate compensation from $60,000 to $110,000+ depending on track record and journey circumstances. The agency’s published IP match time is 1–4 months from initial contact.

American Surrogacy markets its Limited Risk Program, which covers unlimited matching in cases involving multiple failed embryo transfers, refunds for unused fees if no embryos remain, and a Parent Protection Fee designed to reduce financial exposure to unexpected journey variations. The agency serves intended parents regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or genetic relationship to their child.

For Intended Parents

  • Limited Risk Program. Refund provisions for unused fees and coverage for unlimited rematches reduce financial downside in challenging journeys.
  • 1–4 month published match time. Faster than the industry average, though slower than Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average.
  • Clear fee structure. The agency publishes a detailed cost estimate breakdown intended to reduce surprise fees mid-journey.
  • Inclusive matching. Serves LGBTQ+, single parents, and non-genetically related intended parents without program restrictions.

For Surrogates

  • Published Colorado compensation range: $55,000–$90,000+. Experienced surrogate compensation can reach $60,000–$110,000+ based on prior journey history.
  • Monthly payment structure. Base pay distributed monthly after heartbeat confirmation, providing ongoing financial consistency through the pregnancy.
  • Colorado Springs and Denver coverage. Active in multiple Colorado communities beyond the Denver metro.

American Surrogacy’s total IP journey cost is not published for Colorado. The agency is not physician-led, which means surrogate medical screening relies on contracted medical professionals rather than an in-house clinical team. Colorado surrogates and intended parents who want in-house physician oversight should compare this agency carefully against Physician’s Surrogacy’s OB/GYN-led model before deciding.

Best For: Colorado surrogates who want a clearly published state-specific pay range with an experienced surrogate premium. Intended parents who want financial risk mitigation through the Limited Risk Program structure.

Colorado Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

Colorado’s surrogacy legal framework is among the most comprehensive and clearly codified in the United States. Unlike states that rely on case law or unwritten judicial preferences, Colorado enacted specific statutory protections through the Colorado Surrogacy Agreement Act, signed by Governor Polis on May 6, 2021, and codified as C.R.S. § 19-4.5-101 et seq. Here is what every intended parent and surrogate candidate needs to know before starting a Colorado journey.

For broader context on how Colorado compares to other states, see our surrogacy laws by state guide.

  • Codified statutory framework. C.R.S. § 19-4.5-101 through 19-4.5-114 establishes comprehensive rules for surrogacy agreements, eligibility, required contract contents, parentage establishment, termination rights, and enforcement — eliminating reliance on judicial discretion or case-by-case interpretation.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders are standard. Under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-111, intended parents may petition the juvenile court before, at, or after birth for a parentage order. Colorado courts routinely grant these orders, and the order directs the birth certificate to name the intended parents from delivery — without post-birth adoption proceedings.
  • Parentage by operation of law. Under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-109, when a valid surrogacy agreement is in place, intended parents become legal parents by operation of law at the moment of birth. The surrogate and her spouse (if any) are explicitly excluded from parentage — making Colorado one of the few states where parentage protection does not depend solely on a court filing.
  • Compensated surrogacy is explicitly permitted. HB 21-1022 defines compensation to include consideration for the surrogate’s time, effort, support, pain, and risk. Both altruistic and compensated arrangements are fully recognized and enforceable under Colorado law.
  • Independent legal representation is mandatory. Under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-105, the surrogacy agreement must be executed with independent legal counsel for the surrogate and for the intended parents. The agreement must be signed before any medical procedure related to the surrogacy — other than the required medical evaluation and mental health consultation — begins.
  • Surrogate eligibility requirements set by statute. C.R.S. § 19-4.5-104 requires surrogates to be at least 21 years old and to have previously given birth to at least one child. Surrogates must also complete a medical evaluation and a mental health consultation before executing the agreement.
  • LGBTQ+ and single-parent access fully protected. Colorado law does not restrict intended parents by marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic relationship to the child. Single individuals, same-sex couples, and non-genetically related parents all qualify for pre-birth parentage orders under the same statutory framework.
  • No donor-gamete restriction. Under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-109, if a child is not genetically related to an intended parent due to use of a donor, the intended parents are still recognized as legal parents — and the gestational surrogate and her spouse are still excluded from parentage.
  • Contract enforceability with equitable fallback. Under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-112, a fully compliant agreement is enforceable as written. If the agreement fails to meet every technical requirement, the court determines parentage based on the intent of the parties at the time of execution — providing a safety net that most states do not offer.
  • No state agency licensing requirement. Colorado does not require surrogacy agencies to hold a state license to operate — placing the full burden of vetting an agency’s qualifications on the intended parents and surrogates themselves.

Tip:
Colorado does not require surrogacy agreements to involve a Colorado-resident surrogate — only that the surrogate gives birth in Colorado for the state’s legal framework to apply. Work with an attorney licensed in Colorado who practices Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) law specifically. Surrogacy law sits at the intersection of contract law, family law, and reproductive medicine — a general family law attorney may not have the specific court experience needed to draft and file a pre-birth parentage order correctly under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-111. For a deeper look at surrogacy contracts, we cover what every surrogate should review before signing.

What to Look for in a Colorado Surrogacy Agency

Colorado’s legal framework protects the contractual side of the surrogacy relationship — but it does not regulate the agencies that coordinate those journeys. Because Colorado has no state licensing requirement for surrogacy agencies, the quality of medical oversight, financial handling, and surrogate support varies widely. Here are five factors that reliably separate strong agencies from weaker ones in Colorado’s market.

  • Medical oversight with clinical accountability. Ask who performs surrogate screening and who bears responsibility if a health complication arises during pregnancy. Agencies staffed entirely by coordinators outsource all medical judgment; agencies led by physicians bring clinical accountability into the matching decision itself. This distinction affects both safety outcomes and who answers for them.
  • Compensation transparency before you apply. The best Colorado agencies publish first-time surrogate compensation figures publicly — not just “competitive pay” language. Ask whether the figure quoted is true take-home compensation or a bundled total that includes reimbursable expenses. Agencies that mix reimbursements into their headline number inflate the apparent pay rate. Our guide to how much surrogates make breaks this down in detail.
  • Escrow requirements and timing. Colorado law does not mandate escrow funding — it is a best practice. Confirm that the agency requires all intended parent funds to be deposited in a third-party escrow account before any medical procedures begin. This protects the surrogate’s payment security and the intended parents’ financial exposure if a journey ends early.
  • Published match time data. Most agencies say they offer “fast” or “efficient” matching — few publish actual average match times. An agency that cannot state its average match time in writing is asking you to trust marketing language over verifiable performance. Physician’s Surrogacy’s one-week average is the benchmark against which all others in Colorado should be measured. See how one-week matching works.
  • Colorado legal expertise. Colorado’s surrogacy statute is relatively new — enacted in 2021 — and some attorneys in the state are still developing experience with its specific court procedures and parentage filing requirements. Ask each agency which Colorado ART attorneys they recommend and whether those attorneys have filed multiple pre-birth orders under C.R.S. § 19-4.5-111.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

This comparison was built on direct research into each agency’s publicly available materials, published compensation and cost data, legal affiliations, and Colorado-specific program presence. The evaluation framework used five criteria applied consistently across all seven agencies.

1

Medical Oversight

We evaluated whether each agency employs practicing physicians in a clinical oversight role versus coordinating with external medical professionals on a per-case basis. In-house physician oversight — specifically OB/GYN leadership — was weighted heavily because it directly affects surrogate safety outcomes and preterm birth rates.

2

Compensation Transparency

We assessed whether agencies publish verifiable Colorado-specific surrogate compensation figures and whether those figures represent true take-home pay or inflated totals that include reimbursable expenses. Agencies that publish clear, first-time surrogate minimums received higher marks.

3

Intended Parent Cost Clarity

We reviewed whether agencies publish total journey cost ranges — not just agency fee lines — so intended parents can evaluate full financial exposure. Agencies with all-inclusive or flat-rate pricing models received credit for transparency; those without published figures were noted.

4

Colorado Legal Expertise

We assessed each agency’s demonstrated knowledge of Colorado’s Surrogacy Agreement Act (C.R.S. § 19-4.5-101 et seq.), pre-birth order filing experience, and connections to Colorado ART attorneys with active practice under the 2021 statute.

5

Match Time and Accessibility

We recorded published average match times where available, and assessed physical Colorado presence — whether an agency maintains a local office or coordinates all Colorado journeys remotely. Both factors affect how quickly a journey can begin and how closely families are supported during matching.

6

Surrogate Support Depth

We evaluated post-match support structures, coordinator caseloads where disclosed, and post-delivery support timelines. Agencies with structured surrogate wellness programs and clear post-delivery follow-up received higher marks on this criterion.

 

Editorial Disclosure:
This article is published by Physician’s Surrogacy. Agency 1 in this list is Physician’s Surrogacy, which produced this content. All competitor information is drawn from publicly available sources including agency websites, published compensation schedules, and legal materials current as of 2026. No external agency paid for placement or editorial review. We do not link to competitor websites.

Finding the Right Surrogacy Agency in Colorado: Where to Start

Colorado gives every intended parent and surrogate a legally secure foundation — a codified statute, routinely granted pre-birth orders, and an inclusive framework that extends equal protection regardless of sexual orientation, marital status, or genetic relationship. What the law cannot give you is the right agency. That remains a decision requiring direct comparison of medical oversight, compensation structure, match speed, and the depth of legal expertise your journey will draw on.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. The agency that stands apart in Colorado — and nationally — is the one that keeps physicians at the center of that process rather than outsourcing clinical judgment to coordinators. When you’re comparing the best surrogacy agencies in Colorado on those terms, Physician’s Surrogacy’s OB/GYN-managed model, one-week average match time, and Flat-Rate Surrogacy program stand apart from what any other agency on this list can offer.

The families who move through this process most smoothly are the ones who ask the hardest questions upfront — about who performs screening, what the total cost actually looks like, and how long they should expect to wait. In Colorado, you now have the information to ask all three.


Ready to Take the Next Step in Colorado?

Start Your Colorado Surrogacy Journey With the Only OB/GYN-Managed Agency in the U.S.

Colorado surrogates and intended parents both deserve physician-led oversight, pricing transparency, and a match within weeks — not months.

Physician’s Surrogacy averages a 1-week match time and holds preterm birth rates 50% below the national average — no other agency in Colorado offers both.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
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For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Colorado? +
Yes. Colorado enacted the Colorado Surrogacy Agreement Act (HB 21-1022, C.R.S. § 19-4.5-101 et seq.) in May 2021. Both gestational and traditional surrogacy are legally recognized. Compensated surrogacy is fully permitted. Pre-birth parentage orders are routinely granted by Colorado courts.
How much do surrogates get paid in Colorado? +
First-time surrogate compensation in Colorado starts at $67,000+ through Physician’s Surrogacy. Experienced surrogates can earn more. Other agencies in this guide publish ranges from $55,000 to $90,000+ depending on the agency model, surrogate experience, and journey circumstances.
How much does surrogacy cost for intended parents in Colorado? +
Total Colorado surrogacy costs typically range from $145,000 to $200,000+ when agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance are combined. Physician’s Surrogacy offers four flat-rate program tiers starting at $145,000, with no agency fee due until match confirmation.
Do I need to live in Colorado to use a Colorado surrogacy agency? +
No. Intended parents can live anywhere and use a Colorado surrogacy agency. For Colorado’s legal protections to apply, the surrogate must give birth in Colorado. The surrogate — not the intended parents — must reside in Colorado and deliver there for Colorado parentage law to govern the journey.
What makes Physician’s Surrogacy different from other Colorado surrogacy agencies? +
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the U.S. managed by practicing OB/GYNs. Physicians — not coordinators — lead surrogate screening, producing a ~8% pass rate and preterm birth rates 50% below the national average. The agency also offers a one-week average match time and a transparent Flat-Rate Surrogacy program.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Surrogacy laws, agency compensation figures, and program details are subject to change. Always consult a licensed Colorado ART attorney and your medical team before entering any surrogacy agreement.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Illinois (2026)

Illinois is widely regarded as one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the country — and the agencies serving it reflect that reputation. The Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act (750 ILCS 47/), on the books since 2005, makes surrogacy contracts fully enforceable by statute. That is something most states simply cannot offer. In December 2025, Governor JB Pritzker signed the Equality for Every Family Act (HB2683), removing the genetic-link requirement for intended parents and expanding access for all family types.

Chicago is where the strongest legal framework and the most active surrogate market in the Midwest meet. Unlike Georgia, where permissibility rests on the absence of prohibition, or New York, where surrogacy was illegal until 2021, Illinois built a clear legal foundation for surrogacy two decades ago — and has been strengthening it ever since.

This guide compares seven of the best surrogacy agencies in Illinois for 2026, evaluated for both intended parents and surrogates. Physician’s Surrogacy appears first — we’re transparent about that — and every other agency has earned its placement based on verifiable facts.

Key Takeaways

Illinois has one of the strongest surrogacy statutes in the country. The Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act (2005) makes contracts enforceable by law — and the Equality for Every Family Act (signed December 2025) removes the genetic-link requirement and expands access for all family types.
Illinois uses a court-free administrative parentage process. When statutory requirements are met before delivery, intended parents go directly to the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Vital Records division for the birth certificate — no judge, no hearing.
Illinois mandates escrow before any medical treatment begins — surrogate compensation must be held by a third party before the first fertility-related medication is administered.
First-time surrogate compensation in Illinois ranges from $60,000+ to $75,000+ depending on the agency. Physician’s Surrogacy, ConceiveAbilities, and Golden Surrogacy publish the most competitive first-time packages; the Illinois Center for Surrogacy bundles compensation into all-in IP pricing.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list managed by onsite, board-certified OB/GYNs — a clinical distinction no other agency serving Illinois can match, and one the Gestational Surrogacy Act does not require.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Illinois

Here is a quick comparison of the top agencies, followed by a full breakdown of each. Surrogate pay figures reflect published first-time surrogate compensation. IP total cost estimates reflect full journey costs including agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical, legal, and insurance. All figures are as of 2026.

Agency HQ / IL Presence Surrogate Pay (IL) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? Chicago-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA / National Starting at $60,000+ From $145,000 (Flat-Rate) ~1 week avg. Yes — onsite OB/GYNs No (national)
ConceiveAbilities Chicago, IL (HQ) Up to $75,000+ ~$197,500 (All-In) 2–6 months No Yes (HQ)
Golden Surrogacy Northbrook, IL $70,000+ minimum $35K–$45K agency fee + surrogate pkg 4–12 months No Yes (suburban Chicago)
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA / Serves IL Up to $70,000+ ~$189,500 (guarantee) 30 days–9 months No No
Illinois Center for Surrogacy Chicago, IL (West Loop) Included in all-in package $100,000–$160,000+ (all-in) Not published Partial (clinic-affiliated) Yes (West Loop)
Fertility Source Companies National / IL program ~$65,000 base (IL) Not published Not published No No
American Surrogacy Olathe, KS / Serves IL $55,000–$110,000+ $187,500–$202,500+ 1–4 months No No

* Surrogate pay figures reflect publicly available compensation for first-time carriers. IP total costs include agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical/IVF, legal, escrow, and insurance. Golden Surrogacy’s agency fee is separate from the surrogate compensation package — total IP cost varies by journey. Contact each agency for a personalized estimate.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (Serves Illinois)

Quick Facts

HQ: San Diego, CA (serves Illinois families nationally)
Surrogate compensation: starting at $60,000+ for Illinois (LC state tier)
Intended parent cost: Flat-Rate Surrogacy program — four tiers from $145,000
Match time: Average 1 week (vs. 6–12 month industry standard)
Physician-led: Yes — the only agency in the U.S. managed by onsite practicing OB/GYNs
Screening pass rate: ~8% (more than 90% of applicants screened out)
Medically Cleared Program: Eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait

Illinois’s Gestational Surrogacy Act sets the strongest statutory baseline in the country — enforceable contracts, mandated escrow, and a court-free parentage process. What the law doesn’t touch is the clinical model.

The statute requires surrogate qualifications and mandates escrow, but it doesn’t require that any physician employed by the agency review a surrogate’s records or consult on her care. That gap between legal compliance and clinical accountability is exactly where Physician’s Surrogacy operates differently from every other agency serving the state.

Onsite board-certified obstetricians design the surrogate screening protocol, monitor clinical communications after every appointment, and conduct peer-to-peer consultations with a surrogate’s managing OB anywhere in Illinois when complications arise. The agency is headquartered in San Diego and serves intended parents and surrogates nationwide. The Advisory Board includes specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatal care, and OB/GYNs.

Illinois surrogates never travel to California. All pre-screening and prenatal care are coordinated with local Chicago-area fertility clinics, including the Fertility Centers of Illinois and CCRM Chicago. Learn more about surrogate compensation and what’s included in the flat-rate package.

For Intended Parents

  • Four-tier Flat-Rate Surrogacy program. Tiers from $145,000 to $255,000 with no agency fees due until match confirmation. Full detail at our surrogacy cost guide.
  • One-week average match time. Compared to an industry standard of 6–12 months. See how one-week matching works.
  • Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. The direct result of physician-designed screening that goes beyond what Illinois statute requires.
  • Optional OB-ordered antenatal testing. NIPT, NT Sonogram, AFP Quad Screen, and Fetal Echocardiogram — no other agency serving Illinois offers these onsite.
  • 24/7 multilingual coordinator access. International program including WeChat support — relevant for Chicago’s large international intended parent community.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $60,000+. Total compensation is clear from day one — no surprise deductions, no fine-print adjustments tied to insurance or location.
  • $1,250 screening completion bonus. Paid to every approved applicant before pregnancy confirmation.
  • Experienced surrogates can earn more on each subsequent journey.
  • All funds secured in escrow before the journey begins — meeting and exceeding what Illinois statute already mandates.
  • Surrogate age window: 20.5–40.5. BMI below 35 required; women with BMI between 35 and 37 are evaluated case-by-case.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a 1-week match — versus the 6–12 month industry standard. The Medically Cleared Program eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait, compressing the total journey to approximately 14 months from match to live birth (vs. 30–36 months industry average). Legal timeline is standard for all surrogates.

The one limitation worth noting: Physician’s Surrogacy focuses exclusively on gestational surrogacy and does not offer egg donation services within the same program.

Best For: Illinois intended parents who want the only physician-led agency serving the state, the fastest matching timeline nationally, and flat-rate pricing with no fees until match. Chicago-area surrogates who want onsite physician oversight, a flat-rate compensation package, and escrow protection that exceeds statutory minimums.

Only OB/GYN-Managed Agency in the U.S.

Illinois Families Deserve Physician-Led Surrogacy

The Gestational Surrogacy Act protects the contract. Physician’s Surrogacy protects the pregnancy — with onsite OB/GYNs that no other agency serving Illinois employs.

10,000+ candidates screened annually. Only ~8% pass. Preterm birth rates 50% below the national average.

The pool Illinois families draw from is among the most rigorously vetted in the country.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

2. ConceiveAbilities (Chicago Headquarters)

ConceiveAbilities was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Chicago — making it the only major national agency on this list with its principal office in Illinois. The agency has over 25 years of surrogacy experience in the Chicago market, with deep relationships at the Fertility Centers of Illinois, Northwestern Medicine, and other Chicago-area IVF programs.

For Chicago-area surrogates, ConceiveAbilities actively recruits locally and provides Illinois-specific community resources: care packages with Chicago-area vendor items, and connections to local mom communities including Chicago North Shore Moms and MamaTribe Chicago.

For Intended Parents

  • Chicago-headquartered agency. 25+ years of Illinois-specific surrogacy experience — deeper local knowledge than any national program operating from outside the state.
  • “All-In” fixed-fee program at approximately $197,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, and key legal costs.
  • Matching Matters® program. Surrogates and intended parents matched on shared values, communication style, and expectations alongside logistics.
  • Combined egg donation and surrogacy in a single program.
  • Active LGBTQ+ program. Two decades of Illinois LGBTQ+ parentage experience since the agency’s founding.

For Surrogates

  • Total compensation up to $75,000+ for first-time Illinois carriers — the highest published first-timer rate among Chicago-headquartered agencies on this list.
  • All compensation managed in-house, including escrow, insurance guidance, and financial planning.
  • Chicago-specific surrogate community resources and monthly care packages built into the program.
  • Full fourth-trimester recovery support built into the program.
  • Strong surrogate retention — many Chicago-area surrogates return for second and third journeys.

ConceiveAbilities’ All-In program at $197,500 sits at the higher end of this list’s IP costs. The trade-off is the deepest Chicago-specific infrastructure of any agency here — 25 years of Illinois relationships that national programs operating from outside the state have not replicated. Matching speed of 2–6 months is slower than Physician’s Surrogacy but faster than the industry average.

Best For: Illinois intended parents who want a Chicago-headquartered agency with deep local market knowledge and competitive first-time surrogate compensation. Chicago-area surrogates who want local matching, community connection, and a program with deep Chicagoland roots.

3. Golden Surrogacy (Northbrook, IL — Suburban Chicago)

Golden Surrogacy is a state-licensed Illinois surrogacy agency headquartered in Northbrook — 20 miles north of downtown Chicago. Founded in 2011 by Adam and Frank Golden, a married gay couple who built their own family through surrogacy, it carries a perspective that institutionally run programs rarely replicate.

Golden holds an Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Program License (Certificate No. GS211004), carries a BBB A+ rating, and reports a 99% clinic approval rate for matched surrogates. Operating as a boutique program, every case receives direct, principal-level attention.

For Intended Parents

  • Founded by a gay married couple who experienced surrogacy firsthand — built specifically with LGBTQ+ families and non-traditional families in mind.
  • Illinois state-licensed (License No. GS211004) — fully compliant with the Gestational Surrogacy Act and updated for the Equality for Every Family Act.
  • Agency fee: $35,000–$45,000 depending on service tier, separate from the surrogate compensation package.
  • 99% clinic approval rate for matched surrogates — above the industry standard.
  • Matching speed: approximately 4–12 months depending on preferences.

For Surrogates

  • Minimum $70,000 total compensation for Illinois surrogates — among the highest published floor rates of any Illinois agency.
  • Surrogates may negotiate their own compensation rate — Golden accommodates individual packages on request.
  • No 1099 issued by the agency.
  • Consistent care team throughout the journey — no mid-journey coordinator handoffs.
  • Compensation held in escrow and not dependent on the surrogate’s insurance type, employment status, or state of residence.

Golden’s boutique scale is both its strength and its one constraint — approximately 35 births on record means the agency operates at depth over volume. For intended parents who want principal-level attention and a founding team with lived surrogacy experience, that is a feature, not a flaw.

Best For: LGBTQ+ intended parents and anyone who values a Chicago-area agency founded by intended parents, with high surrogate clinic approval rates and genuine boutique attention. Illinois surrogates who want a locally licensed agency, the ability to negotiate compensation, and a consistent care team throughout.

4. Circle Surrogacy (Serves Illinois)

Circle Surrogacy was founded in 1995 by John Weltman, a lawyer and gay dad whose own children were born through surrogacy. The agency serves Illinois intended parents and surrogates across Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, and all Illinois communities, and has operated here under the Gestational Surrogacy Act since its passage in 2005.

Circle’s core advantage in Illinois is its legal and financial infrastructure. Attorneys on staff are experienced with the Illinois administrative parentage process, including the pre-delivery filing requirements with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the delivery hospital.

For Intended Parents

  • Over 30 years of surrogacy experience nationally, with an active Illinois program serving all major communities.
  • Journey Protection Guarantee Program at $189,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, legal work, and key insurance — including unlimited embryo transfers.
  • In-house legal team experienced with Illinois’s administrative parentage process and the updated Equality for Every Family Act requirements.
  • Journey Protection Escrow: independently managed, 100% funded upfront — exceeds Illinois’s statutory escrow timing requirement.
  • Matching speed: 30 days or less for surrogates; 3–9 months for intended parents depending on preferences.

For Surrogates

  • Total compensation up to $70,000+, with the full package customized to individual circumstances.
  • Journey Protection Pay Promise: 100% guaranteed compensation backed by fully funded escrow from day one.
  • Licensed mental health professional assigned to each surrogate for the full journey.
  • Post-delivery support through the fourth trimester.
  • Match guarantee of 30 days or less for approved Illinois surrogate applicants.

Circle is a non-medical agency — clinical oversight runs through the intended parents’ IVF clinic. Its strength in Illinois is the combination of a three-decade legal track record under the Gestational Surrogacy Act, a financial guarantee structure, and a surrogate support program that goes beyond what Illinois statute requires.

Best For: Illinois intended parents who want a cost-guarantee program, legal expertise in the Illinois administrative parentage process, and a 30-year track record. Chicago-area surrogates who want guaranteed pay, dedicated mental health support, and a nationally recognized program that has served Illinois since the Gestational Surrogacy Act was passed.

5. Illinois Center for Surrogacy (Chicago — West Loop)

The Illinois Center for Surrogacy is a division of Chicago IVF, a multi-location fertility clinic headquartered in Illinois. It is the only surrogacy program on this list that operates from within a fertility clinic — giving it a structural advantage no pure agency can replicate: intended parents and surrogates have direct access to onsite physician care, embryo transfer services, and IVF coordination under one roof.

The program operates out of Chicago IVF’s West Loop office and serves domestic and international intended parents. It publishes three all-in financial packages that bundle surrogate matching, surrogate compensation, required medical screening for both IPs and the surrogate, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, psychological evaluations, insurance review, and medications into a single fixed price — with no hidden line items. That pricing structure is notably transparent for a clinic-based program.

For Intended Parents

  • All-inclusive pricing from $100,000–$160,000+. Three tiers: Gestational Surrogate (no donor) $100,000–$145,000; with egg donor $120,000–$160,000; with sperm donor $100,000–$145,000. Pricing bundles most required journey costs including medical procedures.
  • Onsite IVF and medical care. Intended parents access physician expertise directly through the Chicago IVF medical team — no separate fertility clinic coordination required.
  • International program. Designed for families traveling to Illinois from outside the U.S., with 24/7 concierge support and a streamlined travel model that typically requires only two trips to Illinois for the entire journey.
  • LGBTQ+ and single-parent inclusive. All family types served under Illinois’s inclusive statutory framework.
  • Free consultation available. No upfront cost to explore program structure and pricing.

For Surrogates

  • Surrogate compensation included in all-in packages. The program does not publish standalone surrogate pay figures — compensation is bundled into the IP-facing package price.
  • 95% clinic approval rate for matched surrogates — above the industry standard for pre-screened candidate pools.
  • 24/7 concierge support from experienced surrogacy advocates throughout the journey.
  • Onsite physician care through Chicago IVF. Surrogates have access to the clinic’s medical team for screening, monitoring, and transfer coordination.

The Illinois Center for Surrogacy’s clinic-integrated model is its clearest differentiator — but it also means the program is primarily IP-centric. Standalone surrogate compensation figures are not published publicly, which limits direct comparison for surrogates evaluating agencies side by side. The all-in pricing also does not break out legal fees or certain additional transfer cycles, so intended parents should confirm what is and isn’t covered during their consultation.

Best For: International intended parents who want a Chicago-based, clinic-integrated program with all-inclusive pricing and minimal travel. Illinois intended parents who want onsite IVF and surrogacy coordination under one medical roof. Surrogates interested in a physician-supported program with a high clinic approval rate.

6. Fertility Source Companies (National — Illinois Program)

Fertility Source Companies (FSC) is a nationally operating agency with an active Illinois program and established working relationships with Chicago-area IVF clinics, including the Fertility Centers of Illinois. FSC publishes one of the few clearly stated Illinois-specific surrogate pay figures among national agencies: approximately $65,000 base compensation for first-time Illinois surrogates, paid in monthly installments after fetal heartbeat confirmation.

The agency’s Illinois program covers Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and surrounding communities. FSC’s national surrogate database gives Illinois intended parents access to a pool of pre-screened candidates beyond the local Chicago market — useful when specific matching preferences make local-only matching slower.

For Intended Parents

  • Established Illinois clinic relationships. Active working partnerships with the Fertility Centers of Illinois and other Chicago-area IVF programs.
  • National surrogate pool. Access to pre-screened candidates from across the country, not limited to Illinois residents.
  • Dedicated case management. Assigned coordinators handle appointment logistics, travel, and ongoing journey support throughout Illinois.
  • Financing partnerships available. Connections to fertility financing providers for intended parents who need payment options.

For Surrogates

  • ~$65,000 published base compensation for Illinois surrogates. One of the few national agencies to publish an Illinois-specific figure. Paid in monthly installments after confirmed fetal heartbeat.
  • Additional expenses covered. Medical costs, maternity clothing, travel expenses, and other out-of-pocket costs are covered separately from base compensation.
  • Escrow-backed compensation. Funds held in third-party escrow per Illinois statutory requirement.
  • Illinois-wide coverage. Active in Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and broader Illinois communities.

FSC does not publish total IP journey costs or average match times for Illinois publicly, which limits direct comparison with agencies that provide full cost transparency. The agency’s national scale means coordinator caseloads may be larger than boutique local programs — something to weigh for intended parents who prioritize high-touch case management.

Best For: Illinois intended parents who want a nationally established agency with direct Illinois clinic partnerships and a broad surrogate pool. Illinois surrogates who want a clearly published state-specific compensation figure and a nationally experienced support team.

7. American Surrogacy (Serves Illinois)

American Surrogacy is a national agency that actively serves Illinois intended parents and surrogates. The agency is fully conversant with the Gestational Surrogacy Act’s requirements and has updated its intake and contracting process to reflect the Equality for Every Family Act changes that took effect in December 2025.

American Surrogacy offers three program tiers, giving Illinois intended parents more budget flexibility than most single-program agencies. Its matching speed of 1–4 months is among the fastest on this list — a result of a large pre-screened surrogate database and a streamlined intake process.

For Intended Parents

  • Three program tiers: Limited Risk Program ($202,500+) with coverage for failed transfers and rematches; Foundation Program ($187,500+) with a lower upfront cost; Independent Program ($24,000+) for coordination-only when a surrogate is already identified.
  • Matching speed: 1–4 months — one of the fastest programs serving Illinois.
  • Every intended parent assigned a dedicated case specialist throughout the process.
  • Serves LGBTQ+ families, single intended parents, and unmarried couples under Illinois’s inclusive statute.

For Surrogates

  • Illinois surrogate compensation starting at $55,000, with total packages including allowances reaching $110,000+.
  • Compensation held in escrow per Illinois statutory requirement.
  • Transparent compensation terms disclosed from the first consultation.
  • Covered expenses include travel, lost wages, maternity supplies, childcare, and health-related costs.

American Surrogacy’s three-tier structure gives intended parents genuine flexibility — particularly the Independent Program for families who have already identified a surrogate and need coordination support rather than full matching. The Foundation Program carries more financial risk if the journey doesn’t proceed smoothly; the Limited Risk Program offers stronger cost protection.

Best For: Illinois intended parents who want program flexibility, faster-than-average matching, and three clear pricing tiers. Illinois surrogates who want nationally benchmarked compensation, escrow-backed pay, and an experienced case management team.

Illinois Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

Illinois’s 750 ILCS 47/ is one of the most detailed and protective surrogacy statutes in the United States. It doesn’t just permit surrogacy — it defines the conditions under which contracts are enforceable, sets minimum surrogate qualifications, and establishes a streamlined administrative path to parentage that bypasses the courts entirely.

For broader context on how Illinois compares to other states, see our surrogacy laws by state guide. Here is what the statute means in practice in 2026.

  • Contracts are fully enforceable by statute. The Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act explicitly enforces gestational surrogacy agreements that meet its requirements. Illinois is not operating on equitable arguments or judicial goodwill — the contracts are enforceable by law.
  • No court appearance required for parentage. When all statutory requirements are met and certifications are filed with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the delivery hospital before birth, intended parents go directly to Vital Records for the birth certificate. No judge, no hearing. This applies to married and unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and single intended parents equally.
  • Escrow is legally mandated. The Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act requires that surrogate compensation be placed in a third-party escrow account before any medical treatment begins. This is a condition of statutory compliance, not a best practice.
  • Surrogate qualifications are set by statute. Under the Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act, a surrogate must: be at least 21 years old; have previously given birth; have completed medical and psychological evaluations; hold health insurance covering the full expected pregnancy; and have received legal consultation from an independent, Illinois-licensed attorney.
  • Intended parents must demonstrate infertility. Under the Equality for Every Family Act, intended parents must represent that they are experiencing infertility as defined by the Illinois Insurance Code — replacing the previous “medical need” affidavit requirement.
  • No genetic connection required — as of December 2025. The Equality for Every Family Act removed the requirement that at least one intended parent contribute a gamete. Families using both donor egg and donor sperm can now access Illinois’s full statutory protections without additional legal steps.
  • The surrogate’s attorney must be licensed in Illinois. Under the Equality for Every Family Act, the surrogate’s independent counsel must hold an active Illinois license — and the intended parents are required to pay her legal fees.
  • Only the birth needs to occur in Illinois. Neither the surrogate nor the intended parents need to be Illinois residents. Per the Gestational Surrogacy Act, the delivery must take place in the state for Illinois law to apply.
  • Illinois has no fetal personhood law. The Illinois Reproductive Health Act explicitly states that embryos and fetuses do not have independent legal rights — none of the abortion-restriction contracting complications found in states like Georgia apply here.

Tip:
All required certifications must be filed with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the delivery hospital before birth — timing matters. Work with an Illinois ART attorney early in the process, not after the surrogate is already pregnant. You’ll also want to understand what surrogacy contracts cover before either party signs.

What to Look for in a Chicago Surrogacy Agency

Illinois’s strong statutory framework raises the floor for everyone. Every agency here must comply with the Gestational Surrogacy Act’s escrow mandate, independent counsel requirement, and surrogate qualifications. What separates the best surrogacy agencies in Illinois from the rest are factors the law doesn’t address. See also: choosing a surrogacy agency.

  • Medical oversight beyond the statute. Illinois law does not require agencies to employ physicians — all clinical decisions default to the intended parents’ IVF clinic. Only one agency on this list has onsite OB/GYNs who design screening protocols and remain clinically accountable throughout the journey.
  • Chicago-area clinic relationships. The Fertility Centers of Illinois (FCI), Northwestern Medicine, CCRM Chicago, and InVia Fertility are among the most active gestational carrier programs in the Midwest. Agencies with established protocols at these clinics save meaningful time in an already complex process.
  • Equality for Every Family Act readiness. The new law (effective December 2025) changed the genetic-link requirement, updated the infertility affidavit standard, and mandated Illinois-licensed counsel for surrogates. Agencies that have not updated their contracts to reflect HB2683 are operating on outdated documents.
  • Full upfront escrow. Illinois mandates escrow before medical treatment begins — but not how the account is funded. Agencies that fund escrow fully upfront provide stronger protection than those that fund it incrementally. Always ask how the escrow is capitalized before signing. Read about surrogate insurance and how it interacts with escrow.
  • LGBTQ+ and international experience. Chicago has one of the highest concentrations of LGBTQ+ intended parents in the Midwest. Agencies with a two-decade track record in Illinois LGBTQ+ parentage received additional weight in this evaluation.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

These seven agencies were evaluated on criteria specific to Illinois’s surrogacy environment — including the Equality for Every Family Act requirements that took effect in December 2025. Read our broader guide to top agency selection criteria for a framework that applies nationally.

1

Physician and Clinical Oversight

Illinois law mandates no physician oversight at the agency level. Onsite OB/GYN oversight — which only Physician’s Surrogacy provides — fills a gap the Gestational Surrogacy Act does not address, and directly affects pregnancy outcomes and surrogate safety.

2

Equality Act Readiness

HB2683 (December 2025) changed the genetic-link requirement, updated the infertility affidavit standard, and mandated Illinois-licensed counsel for surrogates. Agencies operating on pre-2026 contracts are out of compliance with current Illinois law.

3

Chicago Clinic Relationships

The Fertility Centers of Illinois, Northwestern Medicine, CCRM Chicago, and InVia Fertility are among the most active gestational carrier programs in the Midwest. Agencies with established workflows at these clinics coordinate embryo transfers and prenatal monitoring more efficiently.

4

Escrow Structure and Transparency

Illinois mandates escrow before medical treatment begins — but not how it is funded. Agencies that fund escrow fully upfront provide stronger protection. Ask every agency to describe their escrow structure before signing any agreement.

5

LGBTQ+ and International Experience

Illinois has welcomed LGBTQ+ and international intended parents since 2005. The Equality for Every Family Act strengthened those protections in December 2025. Agencies with two decades of Illinois-specific LGBTQ+ parentage experience received additional weight.

6

Compensation Structure

Illinois statute does not regulate how compensation is structured — only that it sits in escrow before treatment begins. We distinguished between flat-rate packages (one guaranteed total, disclosed upfront) and variable base-plus-addons models, which affect predictability for both surrogates and intended parents.

 

Editorial Disclosure:
No agency paid to be on this list. Physician’s Surrogacy is the publisher of this article — disclosed here and throughout. All competitor information is drawn from publicly available sources including agency websites, published compensation schedules, and legal materials current as of 2026. We do not link to competitor websites.

What Illinois’s Legal Strength Can’t Do for You

Illinois offers something genuinely rare in American surrogacy law: a clear, tested, enforceable statutory framework that protects all parties, eliminates court involvement, and mandates escrow from day one. No other state makes the parentage process as administratively clean when all requirements are met before delivery.

What the Gestational Surrogacy Act doesn’t govern is the clinical quality of the journey. It doesn’t require the agency to employ physicians. It doesn’t set standards for surrogate monitoring between clinic appointments. It doesn’t address what happens when a complication arises at 28 weeks at a hospital the agency has no prior relationship with.

When you’re comparing the best surrogacy agencies in Illinois on those terms, the one that stands apart is the one that closes that clinical gap — not just the legal one. Among agencies serving the state, only Physician’s Surrogacy employs onsite OB/GYNs who protect the pregnancy the same way the statute protects the contract.


Ready to Start in Illinois?

Illinois’s Strongest Legal Framework. The Nation’s Only Physician-Led Agency.

The Gestational Surrogacy Act protects your contract. Physician’s Surrogacy protects your pregnancy. No commitment, no fees until your match is confirmed.

Average match: 1 week. Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. No other agency serving Illinois offers both.

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For prospective surrogates
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For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Illinois? +
Yes. The Illinois Gestational Surrogacy Act (750 ILCS 47/, effective 2005) explicitly legalizes and governs gestational surrogacy. Contracts are fully enforceable by statute. The Equality for Every Family Act (signed December 2025) expanded protections further — removing the genetic-link requirement and updating surrogate attorney licensing rules.
How much do surrogates get paid in Illinois? +
First-time surrogate compensation in Illinois starts at $60,000+ through Physician’s Surrogacy. Other agencies on this list publish ranges up to $75,000+ for first-time carriers. Experienced surrogates can earn more. See our surrogate pay breakdown for full detail.
Do I need to go to court for surrogacy in Illinois? +
No. When all statutory requirements are met, Illinois uses a court-free administrative parentage process. Intended parents file certifications with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the delivery hospital before birth, then go directly to Vital Records. No judge or hearing required.
How much does surrogacy cost in Illinois? +
Total surrogacy costs in Illinois typically range from $145,000 to $225,000+ depending on the agency, surrogate compensation, IVF costs, and transfer attempts. Physician’s Surrogacy’s Flat-Rate program starts at $145,000 across four tiers. See our surrogacy cost guide for a full breakdown.
Can LGBTQ+ and single intended parents pursue surrogacy in Illinois? +
Yes. Illinois law has welcomed same-sex couples, single intended parents, and unmarried couples since 2005. The Equality for Every Family Act (December 2025) strengthened those protections further with gender-neutral language and expanded parentage pathways. Illinois is one of the most LGBTQ+-inclusive surrogacy states in the country.

!

Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Illinois surrogacy laws are subject to change. Always consult a licensed Illinois reproductive attorney and your medical team before beginning a surrogacy journey.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Florida (2026)

Choosing between the best surrogacy agencies in Florida starts with a question most comparison guides skip: who is clinically accountable when something goes wrong mid-pregnancy? Florida has world-class fertility clinics from Tampa and Orlando to Miami and Jacksonville. Its legal framework explicitly permits compensated gestational surrogacy.

On paper, everything is in place for a straightforward journey. But Florida also has something that complicates the picture for anyone thinking carefully about pregnancy safety.

A six-week abortion ban created real uncertainty in the state’s reproductive healthcare environment. Hurricane season runs June through November — the same months many surrogate pregnancies reach their second and third trimesters.

These aren’t minor footnotes. For a surrogate in Sarasota or an intended parent in Miami, they’re the questions that should be asked before signing with any agency.

Which agency has the clinical infrastructure to monitor complications in real time? Whose OBs are actually available when something needs a peer-to-peer call with a managing physician at a Florida hospital? What happens to a surrogacy contract if a surrogate faces a pregnancy complication in a state where hospital delay has become well-documented?

This guide compares the best surrogacy agencies in Florida for 2026 — evaluated from both the surrogate and intended parent perspective. Physician’s Surrogacy appears first because we wrote this guide, and we disclose that plainly. Every other agency earned its placement based on verifiable, sourced facts.

Key Takeaways

Florida explicitly permits compensated gestational surrogacy under Florida Statute §742.15, but the statute’s primary pathway is designed for married couples — LGBTQ+ and single intended parents have a workable path through court orders, with different legal steps involved.
Florida’s six-week abortion restriction is the single most consequential state-specific factor for surrogacy contracts in 2026. Termination clauses require careful drafting, and physician-level clinical authority inside your agency matters more here than in most states.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list managed by in-house, board-certified OB/GYNs — the most meaningful differentiator for surrogate safety, particularly in Florida’s current healthcare environment.
Florida surrogate compensation ranges from $60,000 to $80,000+ across programs on this list. National agencies applying the MC-state tier typically pay more than Florida-native programs. Always request the full package breakdown.
Total intended parent costs in Florida typically run $145,000–$210,000+ depending on program, number of embryo transfer attempts, and whether egg donation is needed — the range is wide, and what’s included versus billed separately varies widely between agencies.

7 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Florida (2026)

Here is a quick comparison of all seven agencies, followed by a full breakdown of each.

Agency HQ / FL Presence Surrogate Pay (FL) Est. IP Total Match Time Physician-Led? LGBTQ+ / Single IP
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA (serves FL) $67K+ (first-time) From $145,000 ~1 week Yes — in-house OBs Yes
Eggceptional Fertility Florida-based $60K–$80K+ ~$120K–$150K+ Not disclosed No Yes
Golden Surrogacy Florida-based $70K+ published min. Not disclosed Not disclosed No Yes
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA (serves FL) Up to $70K+ ~$189K (guarantee) 30 days–9 months No Yes (strong FL track record)
American Surrogacy National (serves FL) $55K+ (first-time) $187K–$202K+ 1–4 months No Yes
ConceiveAbilities Chicago, IL (serves FL) Up to $75K ~$197K (All-In) 2–6 months No Yes
Advocates For Surrogacy Florida-based Not publicly disclosed On consultation Not disclosed No Yes (long-standing LGBTQ+ focus)

* Surrogate pay reflects publicly stated compensation. Intended parent totals vary by program tier, IVF needs, embryo transfer attempts, and legal fees. Always confirm the full package breakdown before committing to any agency.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy — The Only OB/GYN-Led Agency in Florida

Quick Facts

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by in-house, practicing OB/GYNs. Florida surrogates earn a flat-rate package starting at $67,000+ (first-time). Programs for intended parents start at $145,000 with no agency fees until a match is confirmed. Average match time: approximately one week.

The question most Florida surrogates don’t think to ask is this: when a complication comes up mid-pregnancy — not a crisis, just an unusual result from a routine appointment — who calls your managing OB? At most agencies, the answer is a case coordinator. Their job is to schedule and communicate. They are not clinicians.

At Physician’s Surrogacy, the answer is a board-certified OB/GYN employed by the agency itself. That physician reviews clinical communications after every appointment, can consult peer-to-peer with a surrogate’s managing physician in Tampa or Miami or Jacksonville, and is equipped to weigh in on decisions that a coordinator is simply not qualified to make.

In Florida specifically, where the six-week abortion restriction has created documented delays in prenatal care at hospitals statewide, having a clinical authority in your corner from the start is not a premium feature. It’s the kind of protection that makes a concrete difference when something doesn’t go according to plan.

Florida surrogates work with local clinics and managing OBs in their own city. No travel to California is required for pre-screening or prenatal care.

For Intended Parents

  • Programs starting at $145,000 (Surrogacy Flat Rate). All quotations are Fixed and Flat with no hidden costs and no surprise bills after match.
  • The Physician Plus program ($193,000) provides priority matching in 0–2 weeks, priority medical screening in 4–8 weeks, and dedicated Medical Director-managed FET — for intended parents who want the fastest, most closely monitored journey available.
  • Average match time of approximately one week — compared to an industry standard of 6–12 months.
  • Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average, a direct result of the physician-designed screening protocol.
  • Optional OB-ordered antenatal testing — Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), NT Sonogram, AFP Quad Screen, and Fetal Echocardiogram — options unavailable through agencies without physician staff.
  • The Live Birth Guarantee program ($208,000) includes unlimited embryo transfers and an 80% refund if a live birth is not achieved after three unsuccessful transfers.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $67,000+ for first-time Florida surrogates. Experienced surrogates can earn more on each subsequent journey.
  • The flat-rate model includes household allowance, maternity clothing, childcare support, and lost wages. No receipt tracking required.
  • All funds are secured in escrow before the journey begins. There is no ambiguity about when or how you are paid.
  • The Medically Cleared Program allows surrogates to complete medical and psychological clearance before matching, eliminating the 3–5 week post-match screening delay and giving you a faster path from match to embryo transfer.
  • A 3–6 months post-delivery support period — longer than most agencies publicly disclose.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages an approximately one-week match — compared to the 6–12 month industry standard. The total journey from match to live birth averages 14 months. The Medically Cleared Program eliminates the post-match screening wait, so Florida surrogates move directly to legal review and embryo transfer preparation after being matched.

One honest note: Physician’s Surrogacy is a gestational surrogacy agency and does not provide egg donation services within the same program. Intended parents who need both egg donation and surrogacy will need to coordinate egg donation through a fertility clinic or a separate provider.

Best For: Florida surrogates who want the strongest medical safety program available, guaranteed pay in escrow before the journey starts, and physician-designed screening that doesn’t leave clinical decisions entirely to the IVF clinic. Intended parents who want flat-rate pricing with nothing hidden, fast matching, and the only in-house OB/GYN oversight available anywhere in the state.

Ready to learn more about Physician’s Surrogacy?

Florida surrogates start at $67,000+. No agency fees for intended parents until match is confirmed.

Apply as a Surrogate →
Schedule a Consultation →

2. Eggceptional Fertility (Florida-Based)

Eggceptional Fertility is a Florida-native agency with over a decade of in-state experience. The team works within Florida’s specific legal and medical environment — familiar with local reproductive attorneys and fertility clinic networks across Miami, Tampa, and Orlando.

For intended parents who want combined egg donation and gestational surrogacy in one program, Eggceptional’s integrated model is one of the more streamlined local options available. A flat agency fee of $30,000, paid in installments, makes the cost structure more transparent than many national programs.

For Intended Parents

  • Over a decade of Florida-specific experience with local clinic relationships and ART attorney networks.
  • Flat agency fee of $30,000, paid in installments. Lower administrative overhead than most national programs.
  • Combined egg donation and gestational surrogacy, with a $1,500 discount when using both services.
  • Estimated all-in costs of approximately $120,000–$150,000. One of the more accessible totals on this list.
  • Full-service coordination including escrow management and legal referrals from a team with direct Florida experience.

For Surrogates

  • Compensation ranging from $60,000 to $80,000. Experienced surrogates earn toward the higher end.
  • An additional $5,000 for each child carried beyond one.
  • Life insurance coverage for the surrogate’s family is included during the journey.
  • Medical and psychological screening costs are covered by intended parents. They are not deducted from surrogate pay.

Eggceptional’s compensation range is genuinely competitive for a Florida-native agency. The trade-off versus national programs is a smaller active surrogate pool and no physician-led oversight structure — clinical decisions remain with the intended parents’ IVF clinic.

Best For: Intended parents who want a Florida-rooted agency with deep local knowledge, a flat fee structure, and integrated egg donation and surrogacy services. Surrogates in Miami, Tampa, or Orlando who prefer high-touch local support and competitive pay without working through a large national program.

3. Golden Surrogacy (Florida-Based)

Golden Surrogacy was founded by intended parents (not attorneys or agency operators) who completed their own surrogacy journey and built a program around what they wish they’d had. That perspective shapes how the agency handles matching, communication, and the parts of the surrogacy experience that standard agency workflows tend to flatten into logistics.

Golden publishes a minimum compensation guarantee of $70,000 for all first-time Florida surrogates, one of the highest published floors among Florida-native agencies. Surrogates also have the option to negotiate their compensation, a degree of flexibility that’s rare in larger programs.

For Intended Parents

  • Founded by intended parents who experienced the journey themselves. That background shapes how they approach matching and support.
  • Serves traditional couples, LGBTQ+ families, single parents, and international intended parents across Florida.
  • Strong focus on compatibility matching. Surrogates and intended parents are connected on shared values, not just logistics.
  • Local clinic relationships across Tampa Bay, South Florida, Jacksonville, and Orlando.
  • Total costs are not publicly disclosed. Provided on consultation.

For Surrogates

  • Published minimum of $70,000, one of the highest first-time floors among Florida-native agencies.
  • Compensation is negotiable on request, giving surrogates more agency over their package than most programs allow.
  • All additional costs are itemized and covered separately by intended parents: legal fees, medical bills, childcare for appointments, lost wages, travel, and mileage.
  • No 1099 is issued on surrogate compensation under the current program structure.

Golden’s $70,000 published minimum is a real number. The gaps worth asking about directly: total IP costs, matching timelines, and post-delivery support protocols are not publicly disclosed. Ask about all three before committing.

Best For: Florida surrogates in Jacksonville, Tampa, or Miami who want a local, relationship-first program with competitive pay and room to negotiate. Intended parents who want a Florida-native team founded by people who know the journey from their own experience.

4. Circle Surrogacy (Serves Florida)

Circle Surrogacy was founded in 1995 by a lawyer and gay dad who built his own family through surrogacy. Headquartered in Boston, Circle has been serving Florida intended parents and surrogates for over 30 years — with a particularly strong track record for LGBTQ+ families working through Florida’s specific parentage order process.

Florida’s legal pathway for LGBTQ+ and unmarried intended parents is workable but requires genuinely experienced Florida ART legal counsel. Circle’s in-house legal team has handled this specific pathway for decades, which is a meaningful differentiator in a state where county-level practice still varies.

For Intended Parents

  • Over 3,800 babies born through their programs across three decades of operation.
  • Journey Protection Guarantee Program at approximately $189,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, legal work, and key insurance including unlimited embryo transfers.
  • In-house legal team with documented experience in Florida’s post-birth parentage order process and LGBTQ+ parentage pathways.
  • Journey Protection Escrow is independently managed and 100% funded upfront before the journey begins.
  • Matching speed: 30 days or less for surrogates; 3–9 months for intended parents depending on preferences.

For Surrogates

  • Total compensation up to $70,000+ including all benefits.
  • 100% guaranteed compensation backed by fully funded escrow. The pay is secured before you start.
  • A dedicated social worker is assigned exclusively to each surrogate for the full journey.
  • Post-delivery support runs through the fourth trimester.
  • Match guarantee of 30 days or less for approved Florida applicants.

Circle is a non-medical agency. Clinical oversight comes from the intended parents’ IVF clinic. The agency does not employ physicians. Its differentiated strength is legal infrastructure, financial protection, and a three-decade track record — particularly for LGBTQ+ families in a state where the legal pathway requires real expertise.

Best For: LGBTQ+ and married intended parents in Florida who want in-house legal support with genuine Florida ART experience, a financial guarantee program, and one of the most fully protected surrogate compensation structures available. Florida surrogates who want guaranteed pay secured in escrow and dedicated social work support from match to postpartum.

5. American Surrogacy (Serves Florida)

American Surrogacy is a national agency with Florida-specific experience — including familiarity with the state’s medical necessity requirement and post-birth parentage order process. Three program tiers give intended parents more structural choice than most agencies offer.

For Intended Parents

  • Three program tiers: Limited Risk Program ($202,500+) covers failed transfers and rematches. Foundation Program ($187,500+) has a lower upfront cost. Independent Program ($24,000+) is coordination-only when a surrogate is already identified.
  • Matching speed of 1–4 months — one of the faster national agencies serving Florida.
  • Every intended parent is assigned a dedicated case specialist throughout the full journey.
  • Compensation is managed through a licensed escrow service.
  • Serves single parents and LGBTQ+ families across Florida.

For Surrogates

  • Surrogate compensation starting at $55,000 for first-time Florida carriers, with total packages including reimbursements ranging upward of $110,000+.
  • Covered expenses include travel, lost wages, maternity supplies, childcare, and health-related costs.
  • Compensation terms disclosed from the first consultation — no surprises.

American Surrogacy’s three-tier structure works well for intended parents who want budget flexibility. The Foundation Program’s lower upfront cost carries more financial exposure if the journey doesn’t go smoothly.

The Limited Risk Program provides better protection for families who want predictable costs. Neither program includes physician oversight within the agency — clinical accountability remains with the fertility clinic.

Best For: Intended parents who want national program flexibility, faster-than-average matching, and Florida surrogate access through a structured case management team. Florida surrogates who want clear, disclosed compensation terms from the start.

6. ConceiveAbilities (Serves Florida)

Founded in 1996, ConceiveAbilities is a national agency with nearly 30 years of experience serving Florida surrogates and intended parents. Its Matching Matters® philosophy centers on compatibility — connecting surrogates and intended parents on personality, communication style, and values alongside logistics.

For Florida surrogates specifically, ConceiveAbilities is worth examining for its compensation figures. A published first-time rate of up to $75,000 is among the highest nationally available, well above what most Florida-native agencies publish.

For Intended Parents

  • Nearly three decades of national operation with combined egg donation and gestational surrogacy in a single program.
  • “All-In” fixed-fee program at approximately $197,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, and key legal costs.
  • Matching Matters® program matches surrogates and intended parents on shared values and communication style alongside standard criteria.
  • Matching speed of approximately 2–6 months.

For Surrogates

  • Total compensation up to $75,000 for first-time carriers — among the highest published first-timer rates nationally, available to Florida surrogates.
  • Strong surrogate retention. Many surrogates return for second and third journeys.
  • Pre-pregnancy compensation is available through the application process.

Longer matching timelines than agencies with pre-cleared surrogate pools, and intended parent costs at the higher end of the national range. ConceiveAbilities does not offer physician-led oversight — clinical decisions remain with the fertility clinic throughout the journey.

Best For: Florida surrogates who want maximum first-time compensation and a national agency with a long history of surrogate retention. Intended parents who prioritize long-term compatibility matching and want combined egg donation and surrogacy services in one program.

7. Advocates For Surrogacy (Florida-Based)

Advocates For Surrogacy is a Florida-based agency with a long-standing focus on LGBTQ+ intended parents and a client-advocacy approach. The agency’s president, Candace O’Brien, has been supporting LGBTQ+ family building for nearly two decades — relevant experience in a state where the legal pathway for non-married intended parents requires genuine specialist knowledge.

The agency operates as a full-service coordinator: matching, case management, legal referrals, and escrow guidance. Compensation and total IP cost figures are not published publicly and are provided on consultation — which makes direct comparison harder, but the direct conversation approach is part of their model.

For Intended Parents

  • Nearly two decades of LGBTQ+ surrogacy facilitation in Florida specifically — meaningful for families pursuing the pre-planned adoption and court order pathway.
  • Deep focus on legal integrity. Contracts are drafted to comply with Florida Statute §742.15 with explicit disclosure of gamete sources.
  • Cost savings strategies discussed directly in initial consultation, with detailed breakdowns of variable cost factors.
  • International surrogacy experience for non-U.S.-based intended parents pursuing Florida surrogates.

For Surrogates

  • Full vetting of intended parents before matching. Financial commitment and emotional readiness are confirmed upfront.
  • Coordinator support runs from inquiry through post-delivery. The focus is on the surrogate’s comfort with her intended parents.
  • Compensation and full package details are discussed directly. No public figures are published.

The absence of public compensation and cost figures makes Advocates harder to compare without a direct consultation. For surrogates who prioritize knowing their intended parents have been thoroughly vetted before matching, the agency’s approach to IP screening is a genuine differentiator.

Best For: LGBTQ+ intended parents in Florida who want an agency with long-standing specific experience in the Florida LGBTQ+ legal pathway. Florida surrogates who want a smaller, relationship-focused agency where intended parent vetting is treated as a core part of the matching process.

Florida Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know in 2026

Florida is one of the most legally established states for gestational surrogacy in the country — but it comes with specific legal features that distinguish it from states like California, and two state-specific developments in 2026 that anyone entering a surrogacy journey here needs to understand directly.

Gestational surrogacy in Florida is governed by Florida Statute §742.15 and Florida Statute §63.213. Here is what actually matters:

  • A written contract is required before any procedures begin. Under §742.15, the gestational surrogacy contract must be executed before any embryo transfer. This isn’t optional — it’s a statutory prerequisite.
  • The statute’s primary pathway applies to married couples. Under §742.15, the commissioning couple must be legally married. Same-sex married couples qualify. Unmarried and single intended parents pursue surrogacy through court orders and, in some cases, pre-planned adoption agreements under §63.213 — which is still workable, but requires an attorney with specific Florida ART experience.
  • Genetic connection required. At least one intended parent must have a genetic connection to the embryo for the statute to apply. Under §742.14, donors of eggs, sperm, or embryos relinquish all parental rights unless a separate written agreement states otherwise.
  • Florida allows pre-birth orders, but the process is different from California. Florida issues interim pre-birth orders that authorize intended parents to make medical decisions for the child during the pregnancy. The post-birth court order — directing the Florida Office of Vital Records to name the intended parents on the birth certificate — is typically obtained after delivery, not before.
  • Compensated surrogacy is permitted. Florida law explicitly allows reasonable compensation for gestational carriers, including living expenses, medical costs, and related services. Compensation cannot be conditioned on pregnancy success.
  • Florida’s six-week abortion restriction is the most consequential state-specific factor for surrogacy contracts in 2026. Florida law generally prohibits most abortions after six weeks. Surrogacy contracts must address termination clauses carefully — a surrogate cannot be compelled to terminate or continue a pregnancy against her will, but what the contract says about selective reduction or termination decisions needs to be drafted with Florida’s current statutory environment in mind. An experienced Florida ART attorney is not optional here.

Florida-Specific Legal Note:County-level practice varies in Florida — especially for LGBTQ+ and single intended parents. An attorney who handles ART contracts statewide, not just in one metro area, is the right call before any documents are signed. The agency you choose should have experience coordinating with Florida ART legal counsel, not just recommending a name on a list.

What to Look for in a Florida Surrogacy Agency

Florida’s active surrogate pool and established fertility clinic network are real advantages. But they don’t answer the questions that actually matter when something unexpected happens during the pregnancy — which is the moment a surrogacy agency either earns its fees or doesn’t. These five criteria separate strong programs from average ones. (See also: choosing a surrogate agency.)

  • Clinical oversight — and who specifically provides it. Florida’s statute requires medical screening but sets no standard for who runs it or how rigorously. When a complication arises mid-pregnancy, who calls your managing OB? At most agencies, a coordinator facilitates. They are not clinicians and cannot provide clinical guidance. A small number of agencies have physician involvement built directly into the program. In Florida’s current healthcare environment, where documented delays in prenatal care have become a real concern, that distinction is not cosmetic.
  • How the agency handles Florida’s legal environment in 2026. Surrogacy contracts in Florida need to be drafted with awareness of the state’s six-week abortion restriction and what it means for termination and selective reduction clauses. Ask every agency how they handle this specifically, and whether the legal teams they work with have current Florida ART experience — not just general surrogacy contract familiarity.
  • Compensation structure and escrow timing. Florida surrogate compensation spans a wide range across programs on this list. Ask for the full package breakdown — total compensation, monthly allowances, milestone bonuses, and when escrow is funded. “Funds secured in escrow before the journey begins” means something specific and different from “funds managed through escrow.”
  • Matching timeline and pool quality. Florida has a large active surrogate population, but pre-screening depth varies widely. Ask any agency what percentage of their active surrogates have completed pre-clearance before matching begins — and what their actual average time from consultation to confirmed match looks like, not just what the brochure says.
  • What post-delivery support actually includes. Hurricane season in Florida runs June through November — overlapping with second and third trimesters for many surrogates. Some agencies provide post-delivery support for 3–6 months; others offer far less. Ask every agency what post-delivery support looks like in practice, what follow-up is clinical versus administrative, and what happens if complications arise after delivery.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

These seven agencies were selected and evaluated based on criteria that matter specifically for Florida surrogates and intended parents — not just what applies generically to surrogacy nationally. (what the best agencies share.)

1

Physician and Clinical Oversight

Who actually manages the medical process when a routine appointment produces an unusual result? Florida’s statute requires medical screening but doesn’t define its quality. The difference between coordinator-managed care and in-house OB/GYN oversight is most visible when complications arise — and no IVF clinic relationship replaces that gap.

2

Florida Legal Expertise

Florida’s medical necessity requirement, post-birth parentage order pathway, LGBTQ+ and single-parent process, and the current abortion restriction environment all require genuine Florida ART legal expertise — not just general surrogacy law familiarity. Agencies whose legal coordination teams have current, active Florida experience scored higher.

3

Matching Speed and Pool Quality

Florida has a large active surrogate population, but pool quality and pre-screening depth vary widely across agencies. Programs with structured pre-clearance options can match in days rather than months — a meaningful difference for intended parents who have already waited years for this moment.

4

Compensation Transparency and Escrow

Florida surrogate pay spans $55,000–$80,000+ across programs on this list. We weighted agencies that publish full compensation breakdowns upfront and fund escrow before the journey begins. Agencies that disclose figures only on consultation scored lower.

5

LGBTQ+ and Single Parent Support

Florida courts grant parentage orders to LGBTQ+ and single intended parents, but through a more complex pathway than in California. Agencies with active Florida legal teams experienced in the specific LGBTQ+ and single-parent parentage process received additional weight in our evaluation.

6

Post-Delivery Support Scope

Surrogacy doesn’t end at birth. We evaluated each agency’s post-delivery support duration, counseling access, and whether clinical follow-up is included. Agencies varied considerably on this — and in Florida, where a surrogate’s managing OB may face constraints in postpartum care under current law, how well the agency supports the surrogate afterward is a real differentiator.

 

Editorial Disclosure:No agency paid to appear on this list. Physician’s Surrogacy is our parent organization — disclosed here and throughout the article.

What Florida Surrogates and Intended Parents Should Know Before Choosing

Florida’s large surrogate community, IVF clinic network, and compensated-surrogacy statute give the state genuine advantages. What they don’t give you is certainty about how a complication is handled at 2 a.m. in Orlando, or who is clinically accountable when something in the second trimester needs an OB-to-OB conversation.

Most agencies on this list refer those conversations to the IVF clinic. That’s the standard model — and for an uncomplicated journey, it often works fine.

But in a state with documented delays in prenatal care following the six-week abortion restriction, and where hurricane season runs straight through peak pregnancy months, “usually fine” carries a different weight than it did a few years ago.

For a Florida surrogate, the most protective choice is an agency where a physician-designed screening protocol decided you were a fit candidate — and where an in-house OB reviews every appointment communication.

For intended parents, it’s an agency where clinical accountability doesn’t stop at the fertility clinic door. Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. The agency you choose should treat it like both.


Florida’s Only OB/GYN-Led Agency

Physician-Grade Safety. Flat-Rate Pricing. One-Week Matching.

Whether you’re a Florida surrogate who wants clinical oversight you can trust, or an intended parent who’s done waiting — Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency in the state with in-house OB/GYNs who stay accountable through every stage of your journey.

Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. Average match: ~1 week. No agency fees until match is confirmed.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Florida? +
Yes. Florida Statute §742.15 explicitly permits compensated gestational surrogacy for married couples. LGBTQ+ and single intended parents pursue surrogacy through court orders and pre-planned adoption agreements under §63.213. At least one intended parent must have a genetic connection to the embryo.
How much do surrogates get paid in Florida? +
Florida surrogate compensation ranges from approximately $55,000 to $80,000+ depending on the agency and experience level. National agencies applying the MC-state tier (like Physician’s Surrogacy) typically start at $67,000+ for first-time Florida surrogates. Always request the full package breakdown. See our surrogate pay guide for more detail.
Does Florida’s six-week abortion restriction affect surrogacy? +
It affects surrogacy contracts — specifically termination and selective reduction clauses. Florida law bans most abortions after six weeks, so contracts must be drafted carefully to reflect current law. A surrogate cannot be compelled to terminate against her will. Florida ART legal expertise is essential.
Can LGBTQ+ and single parents pursue surrogacy in Florida? +
Yes. Florida courts grant parentage orders to LGBTQ+ and single intended parents, though the pathway differs from the married-couple statute. It requires an experienced Florida ART attorney — county-level practice varies, and not every attorney who handles general surrogacy knows the specific Florida LGBTQ+ and single-parent process.
How much does surrogacy cost for intended parents in Florida? +
Total costs typically range from $120,000 to $210,000+ depending on the agency, program tier, IVF needs, and number of embryo transfers. Florida-native agencies publish lower all-in estimates (~$120,000–$150,000). National guarantee programs run $187,000–$208,000+. See our full surrogacy cost guide.

!

Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Florida surrogacy laws and reproductive healthcare regulations are subject to change. Always consult a licensed Florida reproductive attorney and your medical team before beginning a surrogacy journey.

6 Best Surrogacy Agencies in New York for Intended Parents (2026)

When New York intended parents search for the best surrogacy agencies in New York, they face a question no other state forces in quite the same way: is the agency licensed by the Department of Health?

The Child-Parent Security Act, which took effect February 15, 2021, made New York the first and only state to require surrogacy matching programs to hold a DOH license. Every agency matching surrogates who reside or deliver in New York must meet mandatory screening, escrow, and informed-consent standards — or it is operating illegally.

That baseline is higher than most states.

What separates the best agencies from the rest comes down to what’s above it: physician oversight, match speed, pricing transparency, and NYC clinic familiarity.

This guide covers six agencies. The only one without a NY DOH license is Physician’s Surrogacy, which serves NY intended parents with out-of-state surrogates through a fully compliant structure.

Key Takeaways

New York is the only state that requires surrogacy agencies to hold a Department of Health license. Any agency matching NY-resident surrogates without one is operating illegally under the CPSA.
The CPSA’s Surrogate’s Bill of Rights guarantees every NY surrogate independent legal counsel, full health and life insurance, the right to make her own healthcare decisions, and compensation held in mandatory independent escrow — all paid by intended parents.
New York City’s fertility clinic network — RMA of New York, NYU Langone Fertility Center, Weill Cornell Reproductive Medicine, and CCRM-NY — is among the deepest in the country for IVF and surrogacy.
Total surrogacy costs for NY intended parents typically range from $145,000 to $225,000+ depending on program, IVF needs, and journey complexity.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list managed by in-house, board-certified OB/GYNs — a distinction that exists at no other surrogacy agency in the country.

6 Best Surrogacy Agencies in New York for Intended Parents

Here is a quick comparison of the six agencies evaluated for New York intended parents, followed by a full breakdown of each.

Agency NY Licensed? Surrogate Pay (NY) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? NYC Office?
Physician’s Surrogacy ⚠ No (out-of-state surrogates) $60,000+ (out-of-state) From $145,000 ~1 week Yes — in-house OBs No (national)
Circle Surrogacy Yes ~$70K+ total ~$189K (guarantee) 3–9 months No No (Boston HQ)
ConceiveAbilities Yes Up to $75K+ ~$197K (All-In) 2–6 months No Yes (NYC presence)
Hatch Fertility Yes (Sept. 2025) $61K+ (first-time) $160K–$225K+ 3–10 months Partial (clinic partner) No (national)
Family Inceptions Yes Not disclosed Not disclosed Not disclosed No Yes (745 5th Ave)
American Surrogacy Yes (Jan. 2026) $55K+ (varies) $187K–$202K+ 1–4 months No Yes (NYC satellites)

Physician’s Surrogacy does not hold a NY DOH surrogacy license and does not match NY-resident surrogates. NY intended parents are matched with pre-screened surrogates from surrogacy-friendly states. Surrogate pay reflects the applicable state floor.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (Serves New York Intended Parents)

Quick Facts

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by in-house, practicing OB/GYNs. New York intended parents pay Fixed and Flat pricing with no agency fees until a match is confirmed — programs start at $145,000. Average match time: approximately one week. NY intended parents are matched with pre-screened surrogates from surrogacy-friendly states nationwide.

Here is the question NY intended parents should actually ask: does your agency employ a physician — or does it hand all medical decisions to the IVF clinic?

Every DOH-licensed agency on this list does the latter. They comply with ASRM and ACOG screening guidelines, which the CPSA requires — but a coordinator working alongside a fertility clinic follows those guidelines without any physician on the agency’s payroll. Compliance is not the same as clinical oversight.

Physician’s Surrogacy is different. Board-certified OB/GYNs employed by the agency design the screening protocol, monitor clinical communications after every appointment, and consult peer-to-peer with a surrogate’s managing OB when complications arise. That capability does not exist at any other agency serving New York intended parents.

The trade-off is straightforward: Physician’s Surrogacy does not hold a New York State DOH surrogacy license, so it cannot match surrogates who live or deliver in New York. Instead, NY intended parents are matched with pre-screened surrogates from California, Texas, Florida, and other surrogacy-friendly states.

In practice, this is often an advantage. California and Nevada offer pre-birth orders with no genetic connection requirement and no mandatory residency hearing — legal protections that are simpler to execute than New York’s own parentage process. Your CPSA rights as an intended parent remain intact regardless of where your surrogate lives.

For Intended Parents

  • Fixed and Flat pricing starting at $145,000 (Surrogacy Flat Rate) — no agency fees until a match is confirmed. All quotations are Fixed and Flat with no hidden costs.
  • Physician Plus program at $193,000 provides priority matching in 0–2 weeks, priority medical screening in 4–8 weeks, and a dedicated Medical Director managing FET coordination.
  • Average match time of approximately one week — compared to an industry standard of 6–12 months and Circle Surrogacy’s 3–9 month range.
  • Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average — produced by a physician-designed screening protocol that exceeds what the CPSA mandates for licensed agencies.
  • Optional OB-ordered antenatal testing — Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), NT Sonogram, AFP Quad Screen, and Fetal Echocardiogram. No other agency on this list can provide these in-house.
  • 24/7 multilingual coordinator access with WeChat support — valuable for New York City’s large international intended parent population.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a one-week match — compared to the 6–12 month industry standard. The total journey from match to live birth averages 14 months. The Medically Cleared Program eliminates the 3–5 week post-match screening wait, accelerating the path to embryo transfer.

One limitation worth noting: surrogates are matched from other states, so prenatal care and delivery happen in the surrogate’s home state rather than a New York City hospital. If you want your child born at an NYC facility specifically, a DOH-licensed agency with a NY-based surrogate pool may be a better fit.

Physician’s Surrogacy focuses exclusively on gestational surrogacy and does not offer egg donation within the same program.

Best For: New York intended parents who want in-house physician oversight, a preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average, and a match in approximately one week. A strong fit for parents who want their surrogate in a state with simpler pre-birth order requirements, or who cannot afford a 6–12 month wait.

The Physician's Advantage

The CPSA sets a high bar. Physician oversight isn't part of it.

You've already been through enough. The last thing you need is to wonder who's medically accountable for your surrogate's care. At Physician's Surrogacy, that answer is always a board-certified OB/GYN employed by the agency, with full clinical context on your surrogate from the moment she entered the program.

Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. Average match: approximately one week. Fixed and Flat pricing from $145,000.

No agency fees until your match is confirmed.

Schedule a Free Consultation →

2. Circle Surrogacy (Licensed — Boston HQ)

Circle Surrogacy was founded in 1995 by John Weltman, a lawyer and gay dad whose own children were born through surrogacy. It is the longest-tenured full-service agency actively licensed in New York, with over 30 years of national surrogacy experience.

The agency is headquartered in Boston with satellite offices in Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Washington D.C., and Cary, North Carolina. It was among the first agencies to obtain a New York State DOH license when the CPSA took effect and has maintained deep relationships with New York City’s top IVF clinics.

For Intended Parents

  • Licensed in New York and fully CPSA-compliant, with over 30 years of surrogacy experience nationally.
  • Journey Protection Guarantee Program at $189,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, legal work, and key insurance — including unlimited embryo transfers.
  • Journey Protection Escrow independently managed and 100% funded upfront — meets and exceeds the CPSA’s mandatory escrow requirement.
  • In-house legal team with deep experience in CPSA parentage proceedings, including the NYC five-borough birth record distinction.
  • Matching speed approximately 3–9 months for intended parents depending on preferences.

Circle is a non-medical agency — clinical oversight comes through the intended parents’ IVF clinic, not agency-employed physicians. Surrogate compensation reaches approximately $70,000+ total when all benefits are included.

Best For: NYC and tri-state area intended parents who want a fully licensed agency with in-house legal expertise, a three-decade track record, and a financial guarantee that absorbs risk on failed transfers and rematches.

3. ConceiveAbilities (Licensed — NYC Clinic Partnerships)

ConceiveAbilities was one of the first national agencies to obtain a New York State license when the CPSA took effect. Founder Nazca Fontes was present in news coverage the day compensated surrogacy became legal — the agency had been advocating for the CPSA and was positioned to operate from day one.

ConceiveAbilities maintains direct partnerships with some of New York’s most prominent fertility clinics, including CCRM-NY, NYU Langone Fertility Center, RMA of New York, Shady Grove Fertility in NYC, and Weill Cornell Reproductive Medicine. For NY intended parents, this means smoother IVF coordination than agencies newer to the market.

For Intended Parents

  • Licensed in New York and CPSA-compliant from day one, with nearly 30 years of operation nationally.
  • Direct clinic partnerships with CCRM-NY, NYU Langone Fertility, RMA of New York, Shady Grove Fertility NYC, and Weill Cornell Reproductive Medicine.
  • “All-In” fixed-fee program at approximately $197,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, and key legal costs.
  • Matching Matters program focuses on long-term compatibility — surrogates and intended parents are matched on shared values alongside standard logistics.
  • Combined egg donation and surrogacy available in a single program — a meaningful advantage for intended parents who need both services.

ConceiveAbilities is a non-medical agency; clinical oversight comes through the intended parents’ fertility clinic. Matching speed runs approximately 2–6 months, and total IP costs are among the higher end on this list.

Best For: New York intended parents who want combined egg donation and surrogacy with strong NYC clinic relationships and an all-inclusive fixed-fee program.

4. Hatch Fertility (Licensed — Serves New York)

Hatch Fertility was founded in 1991 and received its New York State DOH license in September 2025. Based in Los Angeles, Hatch serves NY intended parents while maintaining full CPSA compliance — including mandatory escrow, NY-licensed legal counsel, and all Surrogate’s Bill of Rights requirements.

The agency’s core strength in New York, as nationally, is its integrated egg donation and surrogacy program. For NYC-based intended parents who need both services, Hatch’s single-program model — with access to one of the largest fresh egg donor databases in the U.S. — reduces coordination complexity considerably.

For Intended Parents

  • Licensed in New York as of September 2025 — fully CPSA-compliant with mandatory escrow and independent legal representation coordinated for both parties.
  • Over 30 years of operation, with more than 8,000 successful journeys facilitated nationally.
  • Combined egg donation and surrogacy in a single program — meaningful for NYC intended parents who need both.
  • “Peace of Mind Program” all-inclusive pricing covers unlimited egg retrievals, embryo transfers, and surrogate rematches until live birth.
  • Estimated total costs $160,000–$225,000+ depending on program and journey variables. Matching speed: approximately 3–10 months.

Physician oversight at Hatch comes through a clinic partnership rather than agency-employed physicians. The broad cost range reflects the variability of combined egg donation and surrogacy journeys.

Best For: New York intended parents who need egg donation and surrogacy in the same program, or who want the financial certainty of an unlimited-transfer guarantee package.

5. Family Inceptions (Licensed — NYC Satellite Office)

Family Inceptions is a national agency headquartered in Suwanee, Georgia, that holds a New York State DOH license and maintains a satellite office at 745 5th Avenue in Manhattan. The agency was founded by Eloise Drane.

The team is known for building close, personal relationships with surrogates across multi-journey partnerships. For LGBTQ+ intended parents in the NYC metro area, the agency’s explicit prioritization of same-sex couples and single intended parents is a distinctive differentiator.

For Intended Parents

  • Licensed in New York — fully CPSA-compliant, with a physical Manhattan satellite office at 745 5th Avenue.
  • Serves NYC, Albany, Long Island, and surrounding areas with local support and national reach.
  • LGBTQ+-inclusive program — the agency explicitly prioritizes same-sex couples and single intended parents.
  • Strong surrogate retention — multiple surrogates return for second and third journeys, indicating consistent care quality.
  • Full-service support from matching through birth, with financial planning options to help manage journey costs.

Family Inceptions publishes less compensation and cost data than other agencies on this list — intended parents need to request a consultation for specifics. The agency’s strengths are surrogate relationships, community-driven support, and LGBTQ+ family-building expertise.

Best For: LGBTQ+ intended parents in the NYC area who want an inclusivity-first agency with a physical Manhattan presence and a personal, relationship-driven approach.

6. American Surrogacy (Licensed — NYC Satellite Offices)

American Surrogacy is a national agency headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, that received its New York State DOH surrogacy license in January 2026. The agency now maintains satellite offices in Brooklyn, Lake Success, New Rochelle, and Midtown Manhattan.

American Surrogacy offers three flexible program tiers — a structural distinction among the agencies on this list, most of which offer a single fixed-fee model.

For Intended Parents

  • Licensed in New York as of January 2026 — fully CPSA-compliant with multiple NYC satellite offices for local support.
  • Three program tiers: Limited Risk Program ($202,500+) with coverage for failed transfers and rematches; Foundation Program ($187,500+) with lower upfront cost; Independent Program ($24,000+) for coordination-only when a surrogate is already identified.
  • Matching speed 1–4 months — one of the faster programs among licensed NY agencies.
  • Dedicated case specialist assigned to every intended parent throughout the process.
  • Compensation managed through a licensed third-party escrow service — meeting the CPSA’s mandatory escrow requirement.

American Surrogacy’s newly licensed status means it can now match NY-resident surrogates directly. The trade-off: the agency has less CPSA-specific operational history than competitors licensed in 2021 or 2022.

Best For: New York intended parents who want tiered program flexibility, faster-than-average matching, and local support through multiple NYC satellite offices.

New York Surrogacy Law: What Intended Parents Need to Know

New York’s surrogacy framework, established by the Child-Parent Security Act, is widely considered the strongest in the country. The CPSA was signed in April 2020 and took effect February 15, 2021. In 2025, Governor Hochul signed S.819, making additional amendments to surrogacy agreement requirements and insurance provisions. See also: surrogacy laws by state.

  • Agency licensing is mandatory. Any matching program working with surrogates who reside in New York or deliver in New York must be licensed by the NY State DOH. Unlicensed agencies cannot legally handle these matches. New York is the only state that requires this.
  • The Surrogate’s Bill of Rights is enforceable by law. NY law guarantees surrogates independent legal counsel (paid by intended parents), full health insurance through 12 months post-delivery, life insurance up to $750,000, mental health counseling, full control over her own healthcare decisions, and the right to withdraw before pregnancy without penalty.
  • Compensation must be held in mandatory independent escrow. Unlike most states where escrow is a best practice, in New York it is a legal requirement under the CPSA. Funds must be held by a third party before any medical procedures begin.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders are available for all family types. The CPSA allows intended parents to obtain a pre-birth order establishing legal parentage — available regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or genetic connection to the embryo.
  • Residency requirements apply. At least one intended parent must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. If the surrogate has not been a New York resident for at least six months, at least one intended parent must have been a NY resident for at least six months. International intended parents who do not meet these requirements cannot use the CPSA framework directly.
  • Agencies cannot provide legal services. Under the CPSA, surrogacy matching programs cannot also serve as legal counsel for either party. Each side must retain an independent, New York-licensed attorney.
  • Only gestational surrogacy is permitted. Traditional surrogacy — where the surrogate provides her own egg — remains prohibited in New York when compensation is involved.

One important nuance: the NY DOH manages birth records for all counties in the state — but not for New York City’s five boroughs. The NYC Department of Health maintains those records separately. Your attorney needs to know this before delivery.

Tip:Before working with any agency as a New York intended parent, verify the agency holds a current NY State DOH license — or, if the agency uses out-of-state surrogates, confirm those surrogates reside in states with favorable surrogacy law and enforceable pre-birth parentage orders. The DOH publishes the full list of licensed programs at health.ny.gov.

What to Look for in a New York Surrogacy Agency

Because all DOH-licensed NY agencies must comply with the CPSA’s baseline protections, the floor here is higher than in most states. What separates the best from average comes down to factors beyond basic compliance. (See also: choosing a surrogacy agency.)

  • Medical oversight — the one thing the CPSA does not mandate at the agency level. New York law requires ASRM and ACOG screening guidelines be followed, but it does not require the agency itself to employ physicians. Most agencies coordinate with the IVF clinic for all medical decisions. Only one agency in the country — Physician’s Surrogacy — has in-house OB/GYNs managing the surrogacy program directly.
  • NYC clinic relationships. New York City’s fertility clinic network — RMA of New York, NYU Langone Fertility, Weill Cornell Reproductive Medicine, CCRM-NY — is among the deepest in the world. Agencies with established relationships at these clinics move faster and coordinate more smoothly.
  • LGBTQ+ experience in NYC’s specific legal context. New York City has one of the highest concentrations of LGBTQ+ intended parents in the country. Agencies with dedicated expertise in LGBTQ+ parentage under the CPSA are better positioned to serve this community.
  • CPSA-specific legal infrastructure. The CPSA’s requirements go beyond most state surrogacy laws. Agencies that have handled hundreds of New York journeys under this statute understand the fine print — estate planning requirements, the NYC birth record exception — in ways newer entrants do not.
  • Matching speed and pricing transparency. New York’s surrogate pool has grown steadily since 2021, but demand remains high. Agencies with strong pre-screening programs and transparent pricing help intended parents plan realistic timelines and budgets.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

We evaluated these six agencies on criteria specific to the New York intended parent experience — not just national agency metrics.

1

CPSA Licensure

Does the agency hold a current NY DOH license — or, for agencies serving NY intended parents with out-of-state surrogates, does it operate under a legally compliant structure? This is the baseline filter, not a differentiator.

2

Physician Oversight

The CPSA mandates ASRM and ACOG screening guidelines, but does not require the agency to employ physicians. Going beyond legal minimums to in-house OB/GYN oversight is what Physician’s Surrogacy does that no other agency does.

3

NYC Clinic Relationships

New York City’s fertility clinic network is unmatched nationally. Agencies with physical NYC offices or established partnerships at RMA, NYU Langone, Weill Cornell, and CCRM-NY coordinate care more efficiently for intended parents.

4

Pricing Transparency

NY law mandates escrow, so escrow itself is not a differentiator. What matters is transparency on total intended parent costs upfront. Agencies that publish clear program pricing and disclose what is and is not included received additional weight.

5

LGBTQ+ and International IPs

New York City has one of the highest concentrations of LGBTQ+ and international intended parents in the country. Agencies with decades of experience in parentage under the CPSA for these families received additional weight.

6

Matching Speed

Match timelines among these six agencies range from one week to 10 months. For intended parents who have already waited years through fertility treatments, the speed of matching is a meaningful quality-of-life factor.

 

Editorial Disclosure:No agency paid to appear on this list. Physician’s Surrogacy is our parent organization — disclosed here and throughout.

What Every New York Intended Parent Should Ask Before Signing

New York’s CPSA sets the highest legal bar for surrogacy protection in the country. Every surrogate working with a licensed NY agency gets independent legal counsel, mandatory escrow, full health and life insurance, and the right to make her own healthcare decisions — by law. That floor does not exist in most other states.

What the CPSA does not require is physician oversight at the agency level. It requires compliance with ASRM and ACOG screening guidelines — but a coordinator working with an IVF clinic can follow those guidelines without a single physician on staff.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. The gap between legal compliance and clinical excellence is exactly where Physician’s Surrogacy sits above every other agency serving New York intended parents.

Before choosing any agency, review the agency red flags that matter most for intended parents — then see which program is the right fit for your family.


New York Intended Parents

CPSA Legal Protections. Physician-Led Oversight. The Only Combination.

New York law mandates the strongest surrogate protections in the country. Physician’s Surrogacy adds what the law doesn’t require: a board-certified OB/GYN managing your journey from day one — and a match in approximately one week.

Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. Programs from $145,000. No fees until match confirmed.

Schedule a Consultation →

For New York intended parents — no commitment required

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in New York? +
Yes. Compensated gestational surrogacy became legal in New York on February 15, 2021, under the Child-Parent Security Act. The law provides pre-birth parentage orders for all family types regardless of marital status or sexual orientation.
How much does surrogacy cost for intended parents in New York? +
Total costs in New York typically range from $145,000 to $225,000+ depending on the program and journey complexity. The CPSA’s mandatory insurance requirements add costs not present in other states. See our surrogacy costs guide for a full breakdown.
Do surrogacy agencies need to be licensed in New York? +
Yes. New York is the only state that requires surrogacy matching programs to be licensed by the Department of Health. Any agency matching NY-resident surrogates without a license is operating illegally. Always verify an agency’s NY DOH license before signing anything.
Can LGBTQ+ and single intended parents pursue surrogacy in New York? +
Yes. The CPSA specifically supports all family types regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or genetic connection to the embryo. Pre-birth parentage orders are available to unmarried couples, single parents, and LGBTQ+ families.
Can I work with a non-licensed agency as a New York intended parent? +
Yes, with conditions. A non-licensed agency cannot match you with a surrogate who lives or delivers in New York. You can work with a national agency that matches you with surrogates from other surrogacy-friendly states. The CPSA protections apply to your side of the journey as an intended parent.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. New York surrogacy laws are subject to change. Always consult a licensed New York reproductive attorney and your medical team before beginning a surrogacy journey.

6 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Georgia (2026)

If you’re searching for a surrogacy agency in Georgia, you have more workable options than most Southeast states — but fewer guardrails than you might expect. The best surrogacy agencies in Georgia for 2026 range from national programs with physician oversight to a Georgia-native agency with embedded attorneys who know the state’s county-level pre-birth order process firsthand.

Georgia operates on legal permissibility by silence: no statute prohibiting gestational surrogacy, a court system that issues pre-birth parentage orders in most cases, and more than 25 years of compensated surrogacy practice. What the state doesn’t offer is a floor. No mandatory surrogate protections. No required escrow. No clinical oversight standards for the agencies operating here.

That gap shapes everything that follows. Atlanta’s fertility clinic network — anchored by Reproductive Biology Associates (RBA), CCRM Atlanta, Shady Grove Fertility, and the Emory Reproductive Center — gives surrogates and intended parents access to strong reproductive medicine resources. But which agency sits between you and those resources matters enormously in a state where the law leaves that choice entirely to you.

Key Takeaways

Georgia has no specific surrogacy statute — compensated gestational surrogacy is permitted by the absence of prohibition, not by codified law. Pre-birth parentage orders are available but vary by county and judge.
Georgia’s six-week abortion restriction (the LIFE Act) is an active consideration for every surrogacy contract in the state. All parties must align on termination expectations in writing before embryo transfer.
Physician’s Surrogacy is the only agency on this list managed by onsite, board-certified OB/GYNs — the single most meaningful differentiator for pregnancy safety in a state with no statutory surrogate protections.
Georgia surrogate compensation ranges from $48,000 to $75,000+ across agencies on this list — national agencies typically pay far more than Georgia-native programs.
Atlanta’s fertility clinic network — including RBA (Georgia’s first IVF program, est. 1983), CCRM Atlanta, Shady Grove Fertility, and ACRM — gives Georgia surrogates access to some of the most experienced reproductive medicine teams in the Southeast.

6 Best Surrogacy Agencies in Georgia

Here is a quick comparison, followed by a full breakdown of each agency.

Agency HQ / GA Presence Surrogate Pay (GA) Est. IP Total Cost Match Time Physician-Led? GA-Based?
Physician’s Surrogacy San Diego, CA (serves GA) $60,000+ (first-time) From $145,000 (fixed and flat) ~1 week Yes — onsite OBs National
Southern Surrogacy Georgia-based (law firm-owned) $48,000–$50,000+ Not publicly disclosed Not disclosed No Yes
Circle Surrogacy Boston, MA (serves GA) Up to $70,000+ ~$189,500 (guarantee) 30 days–9 months No National
ConceiveAbilities Chicago, IL (Atlanta focus) Up to $75,000+ ~$197,500 (All-In) 2–6 months No National
Hatch Fertility Los Angeles, CA (serves GA) $61,000+ (first-time) $160,000–$225,000+ 3–10 months Partial (clinic partner) National
American Surrogacy National (serves GA) $55,000+ (first-time) $187,500–$202,500+ 1–4 months No National

* Surrogate pay figures reflect publicly available compensation. Intended parent costs vary based on program tier, IVF needs, transfer attempts, egg donor requirements, and legal fees.

1. Physician’s Surrogacy (Serves Georgia)

Quick Facts

Physician’s Surrogacy is the only surrogacy agency in the United States managed by onsite, practicing OB/GYNs. Georgia surrogates earn a flat-rate package starting at $60,000 for first-time carriers, with no receipt tracking. Intended parents choose from four fixed and flat program tiers starting at $145,000, with no agency fees until a match is confirmed. Average match time: one week.

Georgia offers no statutory surrogate protections. What the state provides instead is a permissive environment — courts that issue pre-birth orders and allow compensated surrogacy — without any legally mandated oversight standards for the agencies facilitating those journeys.

That gap is exactly where Physician’s Surrogacy operates differently from every other agency serving the state.

Board-certified obstetricians employed by the agency design the screening protocols, monitor clinical communications after every appointment, and consult peer-to-peer with a surrogate’s managing OB in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, or anywhere else in Georgia if complications arise. No other agency on this list offers that.

The agency is headquartered in San Diego and serves intended parents and surrogates nationwide. Its Advisory Board includes specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatal care, and OB/GYNs. Georgia surrogates never travel to California — pre-screening and prenatal care are coordinated with local Georgia clinics, including RBA and CCRM Atlanta.

For Intended Parents

  • Four fixed and flat program tiers: Surrogacy Flat Rate ($145,000), Physician Plus ($193,000, 12–14 months, priority access), Surrogacy Livebirth Guarantee ($208,000, unlimited transfers, 80% refund after three unsuccessful), and All Inclusive Bundle ($255,000, adds donor eggs). No agency fees until match confirmed.
  • Average match time of one week — compared to an industry standard of 6–12 months — from the largest pre-screened surrogate pool in the country.
  • Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average — a direct result of physician-designed screening that goes well beyond what any Georgia court or contract requires.
  • Optional OB-ordered antenatal testing: Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), NT Sonogram, AFP Quad Screen, and Fetal Echocardiogram — options no other agency serving Georgia can provide.
  • 24/7 multilingual coordinator access, including WeChat support — relevant for Atlanta’s international intended parent community.

For Surrogates

  • Flat-rate package starting at $60,000 for first-time Georgia surrogates — meaningfully above the Georgia-native agency range. Experienced surrogates can earn more on each subsequent journey.
  • Household allowance, maternity clothing, and lost wages are pre-calculated into the flat-rate total — no receipt tracking, no reimbursement claims.
  • All funds secured in escrow before the journey begins — a protection not legally required in Georgia but provided as standard.
  • 3–6 months of post-delivery support — longer than any Georgia-based agency publicly offers.
  • The Medically Cleared Program allows surrogates to complete medical and psychological clearance before matching, eliminating the 3–5 week post-match screening wait and compressing the timeline from match to embryo transfer.

Timeline
Physician’s Surrogacy averages a one-week match — versus the 6–12 month industry standard. Georgia surrogates enrolled in the Medically Cleared Program eliminate the post-match screening wait, compressing the timeline from match to embryo transfer significantly.

One limitation worth noting: Physician’s Surrogacy focuses exclusively on gestational surrogacy and does not offer egg donation services within the same program.

Best For: Intended parents who want the only physician-led agency serving Georgia, the fastest matching timeline, and fixed and flat pricing across four tiers. Georgia surrogates who want onsite physician oversight, the strongest compensation in the state, and escrow-backed payment protection not legally required here but provided as standard.

The Physician’s Advantage

The Only OB/GYN-Led Agency Serving Georgia

Georgia law mandates no clinical oversight for surrogacy agencies. Physician’s Surrogacy is the only program where onsite OB/GYNs design the screening protocol and remain accountable for surrogate health throughout the entire journey — not just the IVF clinic.

fixed and flat programs from $145,000. Average match time: ~1 week. No fees until match confirmed.

Escrow-backed compensation for Georgia surrogates — a protection the state doesn’t require but we provide as standard.

2. Southern Surrogacy (Georgia-Based, Law-Firm-Owned)

Southern Surrogacy is the only Georgia-native agency on this list — and its structure is genuinely distinctive. The agency is owned and operated by a team of attorneys, meaning in-house legal counsel is part of the program by default, not a referral. For intended parents navigating Georgia’s county-level pre-birth order variability, that embedded legal expertise is a real operational advantage.

Southern Surrogacy serves surrogates and intended parents across the state — Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah, and surrounding communities — and has built multi-year relationships with Georgia ART attorneys and local fertility clinics through years of in-state operation.

For Intended Parents

  • Georgia-based, law-firm-owned agency — in-house attorneys with direct experience navigating Georgia’s county-level pre-birth order process are part of your team from day one.
  • Serves all major Georgia cities: Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah, and beyond.
  • Full-service program: screening, matching, legal coordination, and case management from a single Georgia-rooted team.
  • All family types served — traditional couples, LGBTQ+ families, and single intended parents.
  • Total IP costs not publicly disclosed; provided upon consultation.

For Surrogates

  • Total compensation ranging from $48,000 to $50,000+ for first-time Georgia surrogates — competitive for a state-based program, lower than national agencies on this list.
  • Surrogates set their own compensation rate within program guidelines.
  • Local matching model — regional pairing means shorter travel distances and a greater likelihood of an in-person relationship with intended parents.
  • In-house legal counsel available to review and explain contracts — meaningful in a state where attorney expertise varies by county.

Southern Surrogacy’s compensation range reflects its positioning as a regional rather than national program. The trade-off is genuine Georgia-rooted expertise, embedded legal counsel, and local matching — all of which matter practically in a state where pre-birth orders are county-dependent.

Best For: Intended parents who want a Georgia-native agency with embedded legal expertise and local matching. Surrogates in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, or surrounding areas who want a highly local program with in-house attorney support.

3. Circle Surrogacy (Serves Georgia)

Circle Surrogacy was founded in 1995 and has served Georgia intended parents and surrogates for over three decades. Its relationships include established connections with RBA, CCRM Atlanta, and other Atlanta-area IVF clinics built through years of in-state operation.

Circle’s core advantage in Georgia is its legal and financial infrastructure. The agency’s in-house attorneys are familiar with Georgia’s pre-birth order process — including county-level variability that makes attorney selection so critical here. Circle’s bonded escrow program has protected funds for more than 5,000 clients nationally. In Georgia, where escrow is not legally required, that protection is entirely voluntary.

For Intended Parents

  • Over 30 years of surrogacy experience nationally, with an active Georgia program serving all major cities and communities.
  • Journey Protection Guarantee Program at $189,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, legal work, and key insurance — including unlimited embryo transfers.
  • In-house legal team with experience navigating Georgia’s pre-birth order process across multiple counties.
  • Journey Protection Escrow: independently managed, 100% funded upfront — protection not legally mandated in Georgia.
  • Match speed: 30 days or less for surrogates; 3–9 months for intended parents depending on preferences.

For Surrogates

  • Total base compensation up to $70,000+, with the full package customized to individual circumstances.
  • Journey Protection Pay Promise: 100% guaranteed compensation backed by fully funded escrow — a protection not required by Georgia law.
  • Licensed mental health professional assigned to each surrogate for the full journey.
  • Post-delivery support through the fourth trimester.
  • Match guarantee of 30 days or less for approved Georgia surrogate applicants.

Circle is a non-medical agency — clinical oversight comes through the intended parents’ IVF clinic. Its distinctive strength in Georgia is financial protection and legal infrastructure in a state where neither is mandated by law.

Best For: Intended parents in Georgia who want a guaranteed cost program, in-house legal expertise, and a three-decade track record — particularly LGBTQ+ families. Surrogates who want guaranteed pay, dedicated mental health support, and a nationally recognized program with deep Georgia roots.

4. ConceiveAbilities (Serves Georgia — Atlanta Focus)

ConceiveAbilities has made a deliberate investment in the Atlanta market and its surrogate community. The agency actively recruits Georgia surrogates for local matches with Atlanta-area intended parents and has built relationships with Atlanta fertility resources including RBA.

For Georgia surrogates, ConceiveAbilities publishes some of the highest base compensation benchmarks on this list — up to $75,000 for first-time carriers — because the agency applies national benchmarks rather than Georgia-specific rates.

For Intended Parents

  • Nearly 30 years of operation with a national track record.
  • Active Atlanta program with local surrogate recruitment and matching.
  • “All-In” fixed-fee program at approximately $197,500, covering agency fees, surrogate compensation, and key legal costs.
  • Matching Matters program focuses on long-term compatibility — surrogates and intended parents are matched on shared values alongside logistics.
  • Match speed: approximately 2–6 months. Combined egg donation and surrogacy in a single program.

For Surrogates

  • Total base compensation up to $75,000 for first-time Georgia carriers — the highest published first-timer rate on this list.
  • Full fourth-trimester recovery support built into the program.
  • Georgia surrogates connected to Atlanta-specific resources: doula networks, fertility communities, and LGBTQ+ parenting organizations including Gay Fathers of Atlanta.
  • Strong surrogate retention — many carriers return for second and third journeys.

The trade-off for ConceiveAbilities’ high compensation and strong Atlanta network is longer match timelines than agencies with pre-cleared surrogate pools. Total intended parent costs are among the higher end on this list.

Best For: Georgia surrogates who want the highest first-time base compensation and strong local Atlanta community connections. Intended parents in the Southeast who want combined egg donation and surrogacy with compatibility-focused matching.

5. Hatch Fertility (Serves Georgia)

Hatch Fertility was founded in 1991 and serves Georgia intended parents and surrogates as part of its national program. Based in Los Angeles, Hatch coordinates with Georgia ART attorneys and local fertility clinics while maintaining its integrated egg donation and surrogacy model — a meaningful advantage for Atlanta-area intended parents who need both services under one program.

Physician oversight comes through a partnership with a partner fertility clinic rather than onsite OB/GYNs employed by the agency itself. Hatch has operated in Georgia for many years and understands the state’s pre-birth order process and LIFE Act contracting requirements.

For Intended Parents

  • Over 30 years of operation, with more than 8,000 successful journeys facilitated nationally.
  • Combined egg donation and surrogacy in a single program — meaningful for Atlanta-area intended parents who need both.
  • Rigorous screening accepting only the top 5% of surrogate and egg donor candidates.
  • “Peace of Mind Program”: all-inclusive pricing covering unlimited egg retrievals, embryo transfers, and surrogate rematches until live birth.
  • Estimated total costs: $160,000–$225,000+ depending on program and journey variables. Match speed: approximately 3–10 months.

For Surrogates

  • Total base compensation starting at $61,100 for first-time Georgia surrogates, increasing for each subsequent completed journey.
  • Additional benefits include medical and legal clearance bonuses, lost wages coverage, childcare allowances, and multiples/C-section bonuses.
  • All funds held in escrow — a protection not legally required in Georgia.
  • Staff composed largely of former surrogates and egg donors, with firsthand experience on the surrogate side.

For intended parents who need the integrated egg donation and surrogacy model, Hatch is one of the few national agencies offering both under one program while actively coordinating with Georgia attorneys and clinics.

Best For: Georgia intended parents who need egg donation and surrogacy in the same program, or who want the financial certainty of an unlimited-transfer guarantee package. Surrogates who value working with a highly established national agency staffed by people with firsthand surrogacy experience.

6. American Surrogacy (Serves Georgia)

American Surrogacy is a national agency that actively serves intended parents and surrogates in Georgia. Unlike in New York — where American Surrogacy is not licensed to match in-state surrogates — Georgia has no licensing requirement for surrogacy agencies. American Surrogacy operates fully in Georgia for both surrogates and intended parents.

The agency offers three program tiers across different budgets and risk tolerances, from full-service programs with financial protections to a coordination-only option for families who already have a surrogate identified. American Surrogacy is familiar with Georgia’s LIFE Act contracting considerations and county-level pre-birth order variability.

For Intended Parents

  • Three program tiers: Limited Risk Program ($202,500+) with coverage for failed transfers and rematches; Foundation Program ($187,500+) with lower upfront cost; Independent Program ($24,000+) for coordination-only when a surrogate is already identified.
  • Match speed: 1–4 months — one of the faster national programs serving Georgia.
  • Every intended parent is assigned a dedicated case specialist throughout the process.
  • Compensation managed through a licensed third-party escrow service. Serves LGBTQ+ families and single intended parents.

For Surrogates

  • Georgia surrogate base compensation starting at $55,000, with total packages including reimbursements ranging up to $110,000+.
  • Covered expenses include travel, lost wages, maternity supplies, childcare, and health-related costs.
  • Transparent compensation terms disclosed from the first consultation.

American Surrogacy’s three-tier structure gives intended parents more budget flexibility than most agencies. The Foundation Program carries more financial exposure if the journey doesn’t proceed smoothly — the Limited Risk Program provides better protection for families who want predictable costs.

Best For: Georgia intended parents who want program flexibility and a faster-than-average national agency. Georgia surrogates who want clear, nationally benchmarked compensation terms and an established case management team.

How We Evaluated These Agencies

These six agencies were evaluated on criteria specific to Georgia’s surrogacy environment — not just national agency metrics.

1

Physician and Clinical Oversight

Georgia mandates no medical oversight structure for surrogacy agencies. In a state without statutory surrogate protections, onsite OB/GYN oversight — which only Physician’s Surrogacy provides — fills a gap the law leaves open.

2

Georgia-Specific Legal Expertise

County-level pre-birth order variability makes Georgia-specific attorney experience a meaningful differentiator. Agencies with embedded legal counsel or long-standing Georgia attorney relationships move through this process more reliably.

3

LIFE Act Contract Competency

Georgia’s six-week abortion restriction means every surrogacy contract must explicitly address termination. Agencies that proactively align surrogates and intended parents on this issue before matching prevent the most common source of journey breakdown in the state.

4

Compensation Transparency

Georgia surrogate pay ranges from $48,000 at regional programs to $75,000+ at national agencies. Georgia law mandates no escrow requirement, no insurance minimums, and no compensation disclosure standard — agencies that voluntarily provide all three were weighted positively.

5

Atlanta Clinic Relationships

RBA (est. 1983), CCRM Atlanta, Shady Grove Fertility, and ACRM represent the Southeast’s strongest fertility clinic network. Agencies with established workflows at these clinics coordinate embryo transfers and monitoring more efficiently.

6

Escrow and Payment Protection

Georgia law mandates no escrow requirement — surrogates are not legally protected if an agency mishandles funds. Agencies that voluntarily place all compensation in independent escrow before treatment begins provide meaningful protection the state itself does not require.

 

Tip:
No agency paid to be on this list. Physician’s Surrogacy is our parent organization — disclosed here and throughout the article.

Georgia Surrogacy Law: What You Need to Know

Georgia operates on a legal framework of permissibility by silence. There is no Georgia statute specifically governing gestational surrogacy — meaning the state neither explicitly legalizes nor prohibits it. Courts have operated favorably toward surrogacy for over two decades, but that track record is built on equitable arguments and judicial discretion, not statutory rights.

Here is what the legal landscape actually looks like in practice:

  • No governing statute. Georgia has no codified surrogacy law. Enforceability of surrogacy contracts depends on general contract principles and judicial interpretation. Georgia’s statutory code contains no surrogacy-specific provisions. Practitioners report consistent success when contracts are well-drafted and both parties have independent legal counsel.
  • Pre-birth parentage orders are available — but county-dependent. Most Georgia courts issue pre-birth orders establishing the intended parents as legal parents before the child is born. However, procedures vary by county and judge. Some counties have rarely issued these orders. Your surrogacy attorney should have direct experience in the specific county where your surrogate plans to deliver. See Georgia Courts for county court information.
  • Compensated surrogacy is permitted. The state has no law prohibiting payment to a gestational carrier. Compensated surrogacy has been practiced here since the late 1990s.
  • LGBTQ+ and single-parent families can pursue surrogacy. Georgia courts have issued pre-birth orders to same-sex couples, single intended parents, and unmarried couples — though some families may need to complete additional legal steps, such as a second-parent adoption, depending on the judge and county.
  • No genetic connection required. No law requires intended parents to be genetically related to the child for a parentage order to be issued.
  • The LIFE Act creates a specific contracting obligation. Georgia currently enforces a six-week abortion restriction under the LIFE Act (HB 481). This does not prohibit surrogacy, but every surrogacy contract in Georgia must explicitly address how termination decisions are made and under what circumstances. No other surrogacy-friendly Southeast state carries this complication to the same degree.
  • IVF is now explicitly protected. A 2025 bipartisan bill codified the legal right to access in vitro fertilization statewide, providing important clarity for intended parents pursuing gestational surrogacy through IVF. See Georgia General Assembly for current session legislation.

Tip:
Because Georgia’s surrogacy process depends on county-level court practice, your attorney’s familiarity with the specific county where your surrogate will deliver matters significantly. Choose a Georgia Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) attorney who regularly handles pre-birth orders in that county — not just one who is generally licensed in the state.

What to Look for in a Georgia Surrogacy Agency

Georgia’s permissive-by-silence framework is both an advantage and a responsibility. Without codified protections, the quality of your agency and legal team determines outcomes to a greater degree than in states with statutes. See also our guide to choosing a surrogacy agency and our list of surrogacy agency red flags before you commit. These five criteria matter most in Georgia specifically.

  • Medical oversight. Georgia law requires no specific medical oversight structure for surrogacy agencies — all clinical decisions default to the IVF clinic. Only one agency on this list employs onsite OB/GYNs who oversee the surrogacy program directly. In a state with no statutory surrogate protections, this distinction is more meaningful, not less.
  • Georgia-specific legal coordination. County-level variability in pre-birth orders means agencies with deep relationships with experienced Georgia ART attorneys — specifically in the counties where their surrogates deliver — provide measurably better legal protection than those routing to out-of-state counsel.
  • LIFE Act contract competency. Any agency operating in Georgia should have a documented process for ensuring surrogates and intended parents are aligned on termination expectations before matching. Ask every agency directly: how do you address Georgia’s abortion restriction in your matching and contracting process?
  • Atlanta-area fertility clinic relationships. RBA, CCRM Atlanta, Shady Grove Fertility, and ACRM are among the most experienced reproductive medicine teams in the Southeast. Agencies with established workflows at these clinics coordinate embryo transfers and prenatal monitoring more efficiently.
  • Compensation transparency. Georgia surrogate pay ranges widely — from under $50,000 at some regional programs to $75,000+ at national agencies. Ask every agency for the complete package, not just the headline number. Our surrogate compensation guide explains what to look for.

Georgia Surrogacy: The Question That Matters Most

Georgia’s surrogacy environment is permissive in the best way — no prohibitions, cooperative courts, and an established practice of compensated gestational surrogacy going back more than 25 years. What it doesn’t offer is a floor.

There are no mandatory surrogate protections, no required escrow, no minimum insurance standards, and no oversight requirements for the agencies facilitating these journeys. In that context, the choice of agency matters more in Georgia than in almost any other state.

An agency that brings onsite physician oversight, escrow-backed compensation, and genuine LIFE Act contract alignment adds protections the state itself doesn’t mandate. For intended parents, that means a preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average and a matching timeline measured in weeks, not months. For surrogates, it means the strongest compensation in the state and financial protection that the law doesn’t require but your journey deserves.

Gestational surrogacy is one of the most medically sophisticated ways a family can be built — and one of the most human. Georgia gives you the legal room to pursue it. Your agency determines the quality of the care and protection that fills that room.


Ready to Take the Next Step?

Georgia’s Best Surrogacy Environment. The Nation’s Only Physician-Led Agency.

No prohibitions. Cooperative courts. The strongest compensation in Georgia. The only onsite OB/GYN oversight available in the state. No fees until your match is confirmed.

Average match: ~1 week. Preterm delivery rate 50% below the national average. fixed and flat programs from $145,000.

Become a Surrogate →
For prospective surrogates
Schedule a Consultation →
For intended parents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surrogacy legal in Georgia? +
Yes. Georgia has no statute prohibiting gestational surrogacy. Compensated surrogacy has been practiced here for over 25 years. Courts issue pre-birth parentage orders in most cases, though procedures vary by county. Georgia has no codified surrogate protections — all protections come through contracts and legal representation.
How much do surrogates get paid in Georgia? +
Georgia surrogate base compensation ranges from approximately $48,000 at Georgia-native agencies to $75,000+ at national programs. National agencies — including Physician’s Surrogacy and ConceiveAbilities — pay significantly more than regional programs. Always ask for the full package breakdown, not just the headline figure.
Does Georgia’s abortion law affect surrogacy? +
Yes — in a specific way. Georgia’s six-week abortion restriction (the LIFE Act) does not prohibit surrogacy, but it makes termination-clause alignment critical in every Georgia surrogacy contract. Surrogates and intended parents must explicitly agree in writing on how termination decisions are handled before embryo transfer.
How much does surrogacy cost in Georgia? +
Total surrogacy costs in Georgia typically range from $130,000 to $225,000+ depending on agency, surrogate compensation, IVF costs, legal fees, and transfer attempts. Physician’s Surrogacy offers fixed and flat programs starting at $145,000. See our surrogacy cost guide for a full breakdown.
Can LGBTQ+ and single intended parents pursue surrogacy in Georgia? +
Yes. Georgia courts have issued pre-birth orders to same-sex couples, single intended parents, and unmarried couples. Some families may need to complete additional legal steps — such as a second-parent adoption — depending on the county and judge. An experienced Georgia ART attorney familiar with LGBTQ+ parentage in the specific delivery county is essential.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Georgia surrogacy laws and regulations are subject to change. Always consult a licensed Georgia reproductive attorney and your medical team before beginning a surrogacy journey.