Seven Surrogacy Insurance Questions Asked and Answered

Surrogacy is a powerful and life-changing journey—for the surrogate, the intended parents, and everyone in between. But let's be real: the medical and legal logistics behind it can get messy, especially when insurance enters the chat.

In the U.S., insurance coverage for surrogacy is a gray area that sparks a lot of confusion, frustration, and flat-out myths.

Let’s cut through the noise. Below are the seven most common insurance-related questions surrogates and intended parents ask—and straight-up, honest answers that agencies, lawyers, and medical professionals tend to agree on.

1. I have personal health insurance coverage; can I use it to pay the medical bills during a surrogacy journey?

Short answer

Maybe, but don't count on it.

Long answer

Most traditional health insurance plans in the U.S. are designed for your medical needs—not someone else’s pregnancy. Even if your plan covers maternity care, it might have specific exclusions for pregnancies where you are not the intended parent. Many insurers explicitly exclude surrogacy from coverage.

You (and your agency) need to carefully read the fine print or hire a professional to review the policy. Missing one line about surrogacy exclusions can cost tens of thousands of dollars later on. Some carriers even retroactively deny claims once they find out the pregnancy is part of a surrogacy arrangement.

2. What if I have personal insurance, but it is denied for use for the journey?

This happens more often than you think. When a surrogate’s personal policy denies coverage, the intended parents are usually responsible for securing a specialized surrogacy-friendly insurance plan or a maternity-only policy that covers the surrogate.

The cost can be high. A one-time surrogacy maternity policy can run from $15,000 to $30,000+, depending on the state, the carrier, and the surrogate’s health background.

Agencies and legal teams usually include a clause in the surrogacy contract that outlines who pays what if coverage is denied. It’s a crucial step to protect both parties.

3. Can I become a surrogate if I do not have personal insurance?

Absolutely, yes. Not having personal health insurance doesn’t disqualify you from becoming a surrogate. Many surrogates start their journey without coverage, and it’s handled by the intended parents.

However, you’ll still need to be in good health and pass a thorough medical screening. Not having personal insurance just adds one more logistical step to the process—it doesn’t block you from participating.

4. Does having medical insurance impact my total surrogate compensation?

Technically, no. But in practice? Sometimes.

If you already have surrogacy-friendly insurance (and it's confirmed in writing), you might be considered “easier” to match. Some agencies may even offer a small bonus. But don’t expect thousands of dollars more—insurance is just one piece of the bigger picture.

5. What does my insurance cover during the surrogacy journey?

Covered:

• Prenatal care (OB visits, ultrasounds, lab work)
• Labor and delivery
• Hospital stays
• Postpartum checkups

Not covered:

• Embryo transfer or IVF procedures
• Psych evaluations
• Legal fees
• Travel costs for appointments
• Medications related to the IVF cycle

Pro tip: Surrogacy journeys often span months and involve multiple providers—so know what's in-network. For more info on coverage rights and appeals, start here: https://www.cms.gov

6. Will I receive medical bills related to the surrogacy?

Probably yes—but don’t panic. Even if the intended parents cover everything, the bills may still come in your name. That’s why it’s crucial to have a billing plan with the intended parents or escrow manager.

Keep every document. Mix-ups happen often, and paper trails save stress. Learn more about billing and appeals here: https://www.dol.gov

7. Will the baby be put on my insurance?

Absolutely not. Once born, the baby is the legal and medical responsibility of the intended parents. They arrange coverage in advance. Occasionally hospitals may tag the baby to your record—notify the agency ASAP if this happens.

For official info on parental rights and birth records, check: https://www.usa.gov

Final Thoughts

Insurance in surrogacy is a maze—but not impossible. Be proactive: get your policy reviewed early, ask questions, and clarify every clause. The clearer the start, the smoother the journey.

Surrogacy is complex—but you’re not in it alone. And when it comes to insurance? The only bad question is the one you didn’t ask.