Surrogacy in Nebraska: A Comprehensive Guide

The Surrogacy Process in Nebraska

Surrogacy is a process that involves a woman carrying a child for intended parents who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves. The general steps involved in surrogacy in Nebraska include:

• Choosing a Surrogacy Path – Intended parents and surrogates must decide whether to pursue traditional or gestational surrogacy.
• Matching with a Surrogate – Intended parents find a suitable surrogate through an agency or independently.
• Legal Agreements – Due to Nebraska’s restrictive surrogacy laws, legal representation is essential.
• Medical Evaluations & IVF – The surrogate undergoes medical screenings, followed by embryo transfer.
• Pregnancy & Monitoring – The surrogate receives prenatal care and medical supervision.
• Birth & Legal Considerations – The baby is born, and parental rights must be established legally.

Who Can Work with a Surrogacy Agency in Nebraska?

While surrogacy is heavily restricted in Nebraska, surrogacy agencies may still offer guidance to:

• Heterosexual couples facing infertility or medical challenges.
• Single individuals who wish to become parents.
• LGBTQ+ couples, though legal challenges exist.
• International intended parents, though Nebraska's restrictive laws may require them to consider surrogacy-friendly states.

Intended parents should consult a legal professional before pursuing surrogacy in Nebraska.

Surrogacy Laws in Nebraska

Nebraska has some of the most restrictive surrogacy laws in the United States. Key legal points include:

• Compensated surrogacy is prohibited – Any paid surrogacy agreement is unenforceable.
• Traditional surrogacy is legally risky – Since the surrogate is biologically related to the child, custody disputes can arise.
• Gestational surrogacy is permitted but unenforceable – While a contract can be drafted, Nebraska law does not recognize it as legally binding.
• Parental rights may need to be determined post-birth – Intended parents often must go through adoption proceedings to gain legal custody of their child.

For more information, refer to Nebraska’s legal guidelines at:

• https://supremecourt.nebraska.gov
• https://dhhs.ne.gov

Surrogacy in Nebraska for Intended Parents

Since Nebraska has restrictive surrogacy laws, intended parents must take extra precautions:

• Consult a Reproductive Law Attorney – A legal professional can advise on the safest options.
• Consider Out-of-State Surrogacy – Many intended parents choose surrogacy-friendly states.
• Explore Adoption or Embryo Donation – These may be more legally viable alternatives in Nebraska.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in Nebraska?

Since compensated surrogacy is prohibited in Nebraska, most intended parents pursue surrogacy in another state. In general, surrogacy costs range between $90,000 and $160,000, covering:

• Medical expenses: $10,000–$25,000.
• Legal fees: $5,000–$15,000.
• Agency fees (out-of-state): $20,000–$40,000.
• Surrogate compensation (in surrogacy-friendly states): $40,000–$60,000.

Finding a Surrogate in Nebraska

Because commercial surrogacy contracts are unenforceable in Nebraska, many intended parents seek surrogates in more surrogacy-friendly states. Options include:

• Surrogacy agencies in other states.
• Personal connections and referrals.
• Online surrogate matching platforms.

Surrogacy in Nebraska for Surrogates

Surrogates in Nebraska must be aware of the legal challenges they may face. Since compensated surrogacy is not legally enforceable, many surrogates choose to work in surrogacy-friendly states instead.

How Much Do Surrogates Get Paid in Nebraska?

Due to state restrictions, commercial surrogacy agreements cannot legally include compensation in Nebraska. However, in surrogacy-friendly states, surrogate compensation typically includes:

• Base compensation: $40,000–$70,000.
• Monthly allowances: $200–$400 per month.
• Embryo transfer fee: $1,000–$2,500.
• Maternity clothing allowance: $500–$1,000.
• Medical expenses: Covered by intended parents.
• Lost wages reimbursement: If the surrogate must miss work.
• Multiples compensation: An additional $5,000–$10,000 for twins.
• C-section compensation: $3,000–$5,000 if required.

The Process for Surrogates in Nebraska

Women considering surrogacy should follow these steps:

1. Research Nebraska’s Surrogacy Laws – Understanding legal restrictions is essential.
2. Consult a Surrogacy Agency (Out of State) – Many surrogates work in legal surrogacy states.
3. Complete Medical & Psychological Evaluations – To ensure eligibility and readiness.
4. Sign a Surrogacy Agreement (Out of State) – Defining compensation and expectations.
5. Begin the IVF Process – Hormonal treatments and embryo transfer.
6. Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy – Regular medical check-ups and support.

How to Become a Surrogate in Nebraska

Since compensated surrogacy is prohibited, most Nebraska women who want to become surrogates do so in states with surrogacy-friendly laws.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age: Typically between 21–40 years old.
• Previous Healthy Pregnancy: At least one prior successful birth.
• BMI Requirements: Within a healthy range.
• Non-Smoker, Drug-Free, and Emotionally Stable.
• Support System: Strong family or community support.

Steps to Become a Surrogate:

1. Apply with a Surrogacy Agency (in a Surrogacy-Friendly State).
2. Complete Medical & Psychological Screenings.
3. Sign a Surrogacy Agreement.
4. Undergo Fertility Treatments and Embryo Transfer.
5. Proceed with Pregnancy & Receive Support.

Benefits of Being a Surrogate in Nebraska

Although Nebraska’s laws make surrogacy challenging, women who choose to become surrogates out of state enjoy:

• Competitive Compensation.
• Comprehensive Medical Care.
• Legal Protections in Surrogacy-Friendly States.
• Emotional Fulfillment from Helping Families.
• Community Support Through Surrogacy Networks.

Conclusion

Surrogacy in Nebraska is legally complex due to state restrictions, making it challenging for both intended parents and surrogates. Most individuals pursue surrogacy in surrogacy-friendly states where laws provide clear protections. For legal guidance, visit:

• https://nebraska.gov
• https://dhhs.ne.gov
• https://supremecourt.nebraska.gov