The questions surrogates most often want answered before applying.
How much do surrogates actually get paid?
Total compensation typically ranges from $60,000–$100,000+ depending on state, experience, and agency. First-time surrogates start at $60K–$75K base; experienced surrogates earn $75K–$100K+. On top of base pay, you receive monthly pregnancy allowances ($200–$350/mo), full medical coverage, and additional pay for twins, C-sections, and maternity clothing.
Can I be a surrogate if I've had a C-section?
Most agencies allow up to 2 prior C-sections. Three or more usually disqualifies you for medical safety reasons — it's the cumulative scar tissue and uterine integrity that matter, not the C-section alone.
What disqualifies someone from being a surrogate?
The most common disqualifiers: BMI over 33, smoking or nicotine use (including vaping), recreational drug use including marijuana, age outside 21–45, no prior pregnancy, more than 5 vaginal deliveries or 3 C-sections, major pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, and certain medical conditions. Living in a surrogacy-restricted state (Louisiana, Michigan, Nebraska) also complicates things.
What happens after I finish this questionnaire?
Within 48 hours, our team reviews your responses against agency eligibility guidelines. If you're a strong fit, we reach out to schedule a 30-minute call to learn more about your goals, preferences, and timing. From there, we introduce you to a partner agency we've vetted that matches what you're looking for — they handle medical screening, legal contracts, matching with intended parents, and ongoing support through delivery. You're never under any commitment until you choose to move forward.
Can I be a surrogate if I'm on Medicaid?
No. Surrogacy compensation makes you ineligible to use Medicaid for the pregnancy. The intended parents are required to provide separate health insurance that covers the pregnancy and delivery — many agencies arrange a dedicated surrogate insurance policy.
How long does the whole process take?
From the moment you start to delivery: typically 15–20 months. Borne's matching phase takes one to two weeks. After you're matched, the agency moves through medical screening, legal contracts, and embryo transfer prep (2–4 months), then a normal 40-week pregnancy.
Am I genetically related to the baby?
No. Modern surrogacy is gestational — you carry an embryo created from the intended parents' (or donor's) eggs and sperm. You share no genetic connection with the baby.