I have decided to become an independent surrogate mother but am not sure about the fees that I should charge. A couple of my friends have been through this experience but both of them have been paid differently. I have contacted an agency but they are tight lipped in this regard. Please help.
First, get a rough estimate of the expenses that you are likely to incur. Remember, the process should not cost you or your family anything. There are fixed expenses like medical costs and lawyers fees which should be taken in advance. Monthly expenses include special diets and visits to a doctor. Work things out – there are a lot more that needs to be considered.- david.curtis91@yahoo.com
There are no standard surrogacy charges but while arriving at a figure, don’t price yourself out of the market. Most prospective parents are not very wealthy. While arriving at a figure, focus on small items too. Things like household help if you require bed rest during pregnancy, an allowance for maternity clothes and special diet charges can add up to substantial sums. Take these into account when drawing up a plan.
While first and second users have covered a lot of points, there is one crucial aspect that needs special mention. That is compensation for wages lost if you are a working woman and need to take leave during pregnancy. This in itself can work out to be a large sum for you. Factor this possibility into the contract.
It is advisable that you keep the amount for monthly expenses reimbursement flexible and opt for actual spent, that is apart from your fee. This is because as your pregnancy progresses, you will need increased medication, specific diet and frequent doctor appointments. Do not stipulate fixed monthly charges in the contract.