Surrogacy in Colorado: A Complete Guide

The Surrogacy Process in Colorado

Surrogacy in Colorado follows a structured legal and medical process to ensure the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved are protected. The process typically includes:

• Initial Consultation – Intended parents (IPs) consult with a surrogacy agency or attorney to understand the process, discuss their goals, and explore financial and legal considerations.
• Screening and Matching – Surrogates undergo psychological and medical screening before being matched with intended parents. Matching criteria often include personality compatibility, expectations, and communication preferences.
• Legal Agreements – Both parties enter into a surrogacy contract, outlining rights, responsibilities, and compensation. These contracts also address contingency plans, medical decisions, and potential complications.
• Medical Procedures – The surrogate undergoes fertility treatments, including hormone therapy and embryo transfer, at a fertility clinic. Close monitoring ensures the best chances of implantation.
• Pregnancy and Monitoring – Regular medical check-ups, ultrasound scans, and psychological support ensure the well-being of both the surrogate and the baby. Agencies and medical professionals provide emotional and logistical assistance throughout the journey.
• Birth and Legal Parentage – Court orders are obtained to establish the intended parents' legal rights before or shortly after birth. A hospital plan is developed to ensure a smooth transition of the newborn to the parents.

Who Can Work with a Surrogacy Agency in Colorado?

Colorado is one of the most inclusive states regarding surrogacy. The following types of intended parents can work with surrogacy agencies:

• Married couples (heterosexual and same-sex)
• Unmarried couples (with legal documentation)
• Single individuals (both male and female)
• LGBTQ+ couples and individuals
• International intended parents (subject to specific requirements and visa considerations)
• Couples with infertility diagnoses

Agencies ensure that all intended parents meet eligibility criteria, including background checks, financial stability, and commitment to the surrogacy process.

Surrogacy Laws in Colorado

Colorado is a surrogacy-friendly state with clear legal protections for both intended parents and surrogates. Key legal aspects include:

• Enforceable surrogacy contracts – Gestational surrogacy agreements are legally recognized in Colorado.
• Pre-birth orders – Intended parents can obtain pre-birth parentage orders, regardless of their marital status or biological relation to the child. This allows them to be recognized as legal parents upon birth.
• No genetic relation requirement – Intended parents do not need to have a genetic connection to the child, making surrogacy accessible for those using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos.
• No residency requirement – Intended parents do not have to be Colorado residents to pursue surrogacy in the state.

For more details, refer to the official Colorado state legislature at: https://leg.colorado.gov

Surrogacy in Colorado for Intended Parents

Intended parents benefit from Colorado’s surrogacy-friendly legal framework. The state offers:

• Accessible legal protections ensuring smooth parental establishment.
• A strong pool of surrogates willing to carry for both in-state and out-of-state parents.
• Top-rated fertility clinics with advanced reproductive technology and high success rates.
• Affordable legal and agency services compared to some other states with stricter laws.
• No restrictive laws against compensated surrogacy, ensuring fair treatment for surrogates and intended parents.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in Colorado?

The cost of surrogacy in Colorado ranges from $90,000 to $160,000, depending on several factors:

• Surrogate compensation ($40,000–$60,000+)
• Medical expenses (IVF, screenings, pregnancy care, medications, delivery costs)
• Legal fees (contract drafting, parentage establishment, trust fund management)
• Agency fees (matchmaking, case management, psychological support, counseling)
• Insurance and contingencies (health insurance, life insurance, additional medical needs, emergency funds)
• Travel and lodging expenses (for intended parents and surrogates when applicable)
• Multiples pregnancy costs (additional compensation for twins or triplets)

For more information on health insurance policies related to surrogacy, check: https://doi.colorado.gov

Finding a Surrogate in Colorado

Intended parents can find a surrogate through:

• Surrogacy agencies – Agencies match IPs with qualified surrogates and facilitate legal and medical processes.
• Independent matching – Parents find a surrogate privately and work with attorneys for contracts and legal formalities.
• Online platforms – Surrogacy forums, social media groups, and support networks help in connecting with potential surrogates.
• Personal referrals – Friends or family members may volunteer as surrogates, reducing costs and emotional complexities.

Surrogacy in Colorado for Surrogates

Women who become surrogates in Colorado undergo a thorough selection process. Requirements typically include:

• Age 21–40 (varies by agency, some allow up to 45)
• At least one healthy full-term pregnancy with no major complications
• No history of smoking, drug use, or serious medical conditions
• Strong emotional and financial stability
• Willingness to undergo medical and psychological screening
• A supportive home environment with family or friends backing the decision

How Much Do Surrogates Get Paid in Colorado?

Surrogate compensation in Colorado is competitive, with base pay ranging from $40,000–$60,000+ depending on experience. Additional benefits include:

• Base compensation ($40,000–$60,000+ depending on experience)
• Monthly allowances ($200–$300 for miscellaneous expenses)
• Embryo transfer compensation ($750–$1,500 per cycle)
• Maternity clothing stipend ($500–$1,000)
• Lost wages reimbursement (if employment is affected)
• Medical co-pays and insurance coverage (ensuring full coverage of pregnancy-related expenses)
• Multiples bonus ($5,000–$10,000 for twins or triplets)
• C-section compensation ($2,500–$5,000)
• Travel expenses (if applicable)
• Postpartum recovery bonus ($1,000–$2,500 for additional care after birth)

Overall, surrogates can earn a total package exceeding $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience and agreements.

How to Become Surrogate in Colorado

Surrogates in Colorado follow these steps:

• Application and Screening – Initial application, medical and psychological evaluations, background checks.
• Matching with Intended Parents – Agencies or attorneys facilitate matching based on compatibility.
• Legal Agreements – Contracts protect surrogate rights, ensuring financial security and medical consent.
• Medical Procedures – Hormonal treatments, embryo transfer, and pregnancy monitoring under expert care.
• Pregnancy and Delivery – Regular check-ups, birth planning, and seamless parental transfer of the newborn.

Conclusion

Colorado is a top destination for surrogacy due to its inclusive laws, strong legal protections, and well-established medical infrastructure. Whether you are an intended parent or a surrogate, the state offers clear legal frameworks, financial incentives, and support systems to ensure a smooth surrogacy journey.

For official state legal and medical guidelines, refer to: https://coleg.gov