The journey to parenthood looks different for every family — and for many, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy are key steps. But one of the biggest questions people face is: How much do these options cost? And, perhaps even more importantly: Will my insurance cover any of it?
In this post we’ll break down the expenses, the insurance landscape, and what families need to know before starting this life-changing process.
Understanding Surrogacy: What Is It?
Surrogacy is when a person (the surrogate) carries a pregnancy for intended parents. It’s often pursued when carrying a pregnancy isn’t medically possible, or when same-sex couples, single parents, or those with fertility challenges want to have a biological connection to their child.
There are two main types:
- Traditional surrogacy – The surrogate’s own egg is used.
- Gestational surrogacy – The embryo is created via IVF using the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs/sperm.
While each path has unique costs and considerations, here at Southern Surrogacy we do not offer the traditional surrogacy route due to the legal risks associated with it.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost?
Surrogacy isn’t cheap — and the total cost can vary widely depending on your location, the clinic or agency you choose, legal needs, and individual circumstances.
Typical Cost Breakdown
Here’s a general estimate for gestational surrogacy in the U.S.:
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost (U.S.) |
| Surrogate compensation | $40,000 – $60,000+ |
| Agency fees | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| IVF & medical procedures | $15,000 – $30,000+ |
| Legal fees | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Insurance / risk coverage | $3,000 – $10,000+ |
| Travel & miscellaneous | $5,000 – $15,000+ |
| Total Estimated Range | $90,000 – $180,000+ |
Note: These are ballpark figures — actual costs can fall above or below depending on clinic pricing, geographic region, and how many embryo transfers are needed.
Does Insurance Cover Surrogacy?
In most cases, insurance does not directly cover the cost of surrogacy. That means:
✔️ Intended parents typically pay out-of-pocket
❌ Surrogate compensation and agency fees are usually not covered
❓ IVF (part of the process) might be covered — but it depends
The silver lining? Some insurance plans can help with IVF coverage, which reduces one major portion of your total cost.
So What About Insurance and IVF?
Insurance Coverage for IVF
Insurance plans vary widely. In the U.S., only certain states require fertility coverage, and even then it often comes with restrictions.
Here’s how it usually breaks down:
Common Scenarios
✔️ Some employer plans cover IVF partially or in full
✔️ State mandates may require coverage in certain cases
✔️ Coverage might depend on medical necessity
Common Limitations
❌ Lifetime limits on IVF cycles
❌ Exclusions for same-sex couples or single parents in some plans
❌ Requirements to try other treatments first
Because policies differ dramatically, you must check your specific insurance plan.
Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider
When you call your insurer, here are must-ask questions:
- Does my policy cover IVF?
- How many IVF cycles are covered?
- Are diagnostic tests covered?
- Do I need pre-authorization?
- Does coverage extend to gestational carriers?
- Are medication costs included?
Ask for answers in writing — this protects you later.
Tips for Managing Costs
Explore Financing Options
Fertility clinics often offer payment plans, loans, or discounts.
Look Into Grants & Scholarships
Certain nonprofits offer grants to help with IVF or surrogacy.
Work With an Attorney
A lawyer ensures your contracts and parental rights are secure — and helps you avoid expensive legal issues later. Here at Southern Surrogacy we are an attorney owned and operating agency!
Budget Early
Plan for:
- Multiple IVF cycles
- Insurance denials
- Travel or time off work
Final Thoughts
The road to building your family through surrogacy and IVF can be emotionally rewarding — but it’s also one of the most complex and expensive medical processes most people ever undertake.
Here’s the big picture:
- Surrogacy is costly, often ranging from $90,000 to $180,000+.
- Insurance rarely covers surrogacy costs outright.
- IVF may be covered by insurance, but coverage varies widely.
- Know your plan, ask the right questions, and work with professionals who help guide you through legal and medical hurdles.
If you have any questions or need guidance on where to start, reach out to us. We are happy to help you with your family building dreams!
