FAMILY PLANNING & LGBTQ+ SURROGACY AGENCY

Understanding the Role of a Surrogacy Agency

A surrogacy agency is essential for LGBTQ+ families navigating the surrogacy journey. Why is that? With extensive training and first-hand experience, these professionals help simplify the entire process, making it smoother and more manageable for everyone involved.

Surrogacy agencies provide much more than just matching intended parents with surrogates. They handle critical tasks such as screening, legal contracts, and coordinating medical appointments. For LGBTQ+ families, these agencies are particularly valuable in addressing unique legal and medical concerns. By managing these logistical details, agencies allow parents to focus on the excitement of growing their family, knowing that professionals are handling the necessary steps.

Plus, certain surrogacy agencies specialize in catering specifically to the needs of gay men, trans people, and other LGBTQ+ families. They are equipped to navigate the complexities of legal parentage and collaborate with surrogates who are sensitive to the unique dynamics of single LGBTQ+ intended parents and LGBTQ+ couples. Along with this practical support, agencies offer emotional assistance, creating a supportive environment for both parents and surrogates throughout the journey.

Clear and open communication is critical for a successful surrogacy experience. Surrogacy agencies serve as the central point of contact, keeping both intended parents and surrogates informed at every stage of the process. By maintaining regular updates and facilitating open discussions, agencies help create a smooth, positive experience, making everyone feel supported and confident every step of the way.

Our services for Intended Parents include:

• Interviewing / Approving each surrogate personally
• Matching you with the most suitable surrogate based on your preferences
• Guiding intended parents, donors, and surrogate through the screening process (criminal, psychological, and medical) as well as updates to the intended parents every step of the way
• Assisting both parties with obtaining medical and life insurance
• Assisting your surrogate with any travel arrangements if travel is required
• Providing emotional support to both you and your surrogate during IVF treatment, pregnancy, labor, delivery, and after the birth
• Monitoring your surrogate and her well-being through monthly Support Group Meetings and checking-in on her through the journey
• Returning any unused funds to the intended parents within 6 months after delivery
• Referring you and your surrogate to attorneys for legal contracts and parental rights
• Coordinating all medical appointments with you, your surrogate, and IVF clinic and updating parents
• Managing and disbursing payments through an insured escrow company or trust account
• Attending select medical appointments upon request from parents or surrogate
• Ensuring all parental documents are completed in a timely manner and a copy is sent to the delivering hospital to prepare for the birth
• Ensuring all parties involved are handled with grace and integrity
• Ensuring an all-around great experience for you and your surrogate

The most essential building block of any family is love, however unique challenges and legal questions often exist for LGBTQ+ families. With that being said – gay intended parents and LGBTQ+ parents from all over the world are turning to our platform for guidance and support to build their families.

Our dedicated team has put together an exclusive network of family building experts who specialize in IVF, egg donation, sperm donation, LGBTQ+ surrogacy laws, and more resources to keep you well-informed every step of your family building journey.

International Surrogacy Center wants you as parents to feel involved with all areas of the pregnancy. If you are unable to attend appointments or keep in contact with your surrogate, we will make sure you are informed with key information and photo updates through emails. We know that this is a major event in your life and is of course dear to your heart, therefore we want to make you feel secure and at rest with your decision to allow us into your future. No matter how close or far you are, we will stay connected to guide you through this exciting journey.

Unlike other agencies that charge fees before they have found your match, our Agency wants you to feel comfortable and sure of your choice before you commit to us. We match our clients before any agency fee is paid, and our fee is a one-time fee. Our agency fee is not paid until after the surrogate you have chosen to work with has been medically cleared by your IVF clinic! Contact us today to set up your cost-free consultation to find a surrogate who is supportive of helping LGBTQ+ intended parents. Our goal is to make this the happiest time of your life.

Legal Considerations for LGBTQ+ Surrogacy

As a rule, surrogacy laws for intended parents generally tend to be similar whether it’s for a heterosexual couple or individual, single gay man, same sex male couple, or other LGBTQ+ parents needing surrogacy to build their family. Since surrogacy is a growing industry, laws can vary significantly from location to location. As an LGBTQIA+ couple or individual, you deserve to have the most updated information about the laws for surrogacy in your area. This includes recognizing how different states or countries approach LGBT surrogacy, as well as how laws may affect parental rights, citizenship, and the legal recognition of your relationship with the child.

LGBTQ+ surrogacy often presents unique legal challenges, especially when it comes to securing parental rights and navigating state-specific or international legal frameworks. While some jurisdictions offer clear, progressive support for LGBTQ+ parents, others may require additional legal steps to establish your parental status. It’s important to be aware of these variations, as they can impact the overall surrogacy process.

To navigate these complexities, it is essential to partner with legal counsel who specializes in LGBTQ+ surrogacy law. Specialized legal professionals are critical in understanding the specific requirements for surrogacy agreements – both traditional and gestational surrogacy – medical rights, and parental rights. They can guide you through the necessary legal steps, including drafting contracts, managing legal issues, and verifying that all legal parentage rights are established.

Additionally, staying informed about the laws in both your state or country and the surrogate’s state is vital, as some regions may have differing regulations about parentage and birth certificates. Having an experienced surrogacy lawyer who understands these nuances can help you manage these factors smoothly. These professionals can also help in international surrogacy arrangements, where different countries have their own surrogacy laws and protocols.

At International Surrogacy Center, we provide access to expert legal representation for intended parents and surrogates. The legal experts we work with have experience advocating for LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. These specialists can guide you through the complexities of surrogacy laws, from negotiating contracts to protecting your parental rights. We can help you understand what to expect throughout the process, including the legal steps needed to safeguard your rights as intended parents.

LGBTQ+ Surrogacy by State

As surrogacy grows in popularity, states are developing their own approaches to the surrogacy process for LGBTQIA+ families and heterosexual parents alike. Until recently, many states had no laws dictating the process for surrogates or intended parents. Although there are similarities among states, intended parents need to know how the laws in their state and the surrogate’s state can affect the surrogacy process. Some states streamline the process for any qualified adult who wants to become an intended parent, while others may set roadblocks for intended parents who aren’t a biological parent of the child.

International Gay Surrogacy

At International Surrogacy Center, we work with intended parents from different countries as well as the U.S. Since countries set their own laws concerning surrogacy, it is important to understand how your country approaches gay couple surrogacy and surrogacy for international LGBTQ+ parents. Many countries treat international LGBTQIA+ parents and heterosexual parents alike in surrogacy policies, while others may set restrictions on the timing or method of establishing parental rights.

Trans Parenting

Parenting as a transgender or nonbinary person creates wonderful opportunities, and we are happy to help. As part of LGBTQ+ family planning, we know that transgender and nonbinary parents may be able to provide the eggs or sperm to create their embryos or even carry a pregnancy. Surrogacy remains an important choice for those who want the joy of parenting without having to deal with the physical and emotional factors of pregnancy, especially considering the unique challenges that pregnancy could cause for trans intended parents. We appreciate the unique challenges faced by the transgender and nonbinary communities, and we work hard to ensure that you can have the most seamless experience possible. Our expert surrogacy team has experience assisting trans parents and can help connect you with surrogacy attorneys and IVF clinics who are trans allies.

Cost Implications and Financial Planning

Understanding the full financial picture is crucial to navigating the surrogacy journey effectively. Surrogacy typically involves these key expenses:

• Agency Fees: These fees cover the services provided by the surrogacy agency, such as matching intended parents with a surrogate, coordinating medical appointments, and legal services. These fees can range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the agency and the services included.
• Medical Expenses: These include the costs for fertility treatments, IVF (in vitro fertilization), medical screenings, and the pregnancy itself. The medical expenses can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the clinic and medical procedures required.
• Legal Fees: Legal expenses are necessary to create contracts that protect the intended parents and the surrogate. This typically includes legal consultations and the drafting of agreements to address parental rights. Legal fees may range from $5,000 to $15,000, and sometimes more, depending on the complexity of the situation.
• Surrogate Compensation and Other Costs: Surrogates are compensated for their time, medical expenses, and emotional toll throughout the pregnancy. Most agencies work with surrogates who have a base compensation of $45,000-$60,000 for first-time surrogates, or more for experienced surrogates. Additionally, there may be travel costs, insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses that can add up to an additional $30,000 or more.

Please note that the cost estimates provided here are general figures and may vary depending on the agency, location, and specific circumstances.

Tips for Financial Planning and Budgeting

Given the significant costs involved, it is essential for intended parents to create a thorough financial plan. Here are some strategies to help with budgeting:

• Start Saving Early: Because surrogacy is an expensive process, early savings can ease the financial burden. Set up a dedicated savings account to gradually build up the necessary funds.
• Create a Detailed Budget: Break down the costs of the surrogacy journey into categories (agency fees, medical, legal, etc.) and estimate what you will need for each, depending on the providers you choose. Factor in a contingency fund to account for unexpected expenses that may arise.
• Explore Financial Products: Some financial institutions offer specific products for people undergoing surrogacy, such as personal loans or lines of credit with favorable terms. It’s important to explore all available financial products to find one that works best for your situation.

Financial Assistance Options for LGBTQ+ Families

In addition to personal savings, there are several financial assistance options available to help LGBTQ+ families manage the costs of surrogacy:

• Grants and Scholarships: Some organizations offer grants and scholarships to help LGBTQ+ families with the costs of surrogacy. These financial assistance programs are designed to support families in need and can help reduce the financial strain.
• Loans: Certain financial institutions provide loans specifically for fertility treatments and surrogacy. These loans may have lower interest rates than traditional loans and may come with flexible repayment options.
• Employer Benefits: In some cases, employers may offer fertility benefits that cover some or all of the surrogacy costs. It’s worth checking with your employer to see if such benefits are available as more employers begin to offer such benefits.

By planning ahead, saving early, and exploring financial assistance options, LGBTQ+ families can better manage the costs of surrogacy and make their family-building journey more accessible and financially manageable.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Agency

Choosing the right surrogacy agency is essential for a successful journey to parenthood, particularly for LGBTQ+ families. One of the most critical factors to consider is budgeting and financial planning. Understanding the full financial commitment is crucial, as surrogacy costs can include unforeseen expenses related to the pregnancy. It’s important to discuss the complete financial picture with the agency early on and work with one that provides transparent pricing and offers guidance in planning a realistic budget.

Another important aspect is the agency’s experience and success rate. Success stories and testimonials from other LGBTQ+ families are incredibly valuable, offering real-world insights into the surrogacy process. These stories help set expectations and provide reassurance that the agency has a proven track record of facilitating successful surrogacies. Hearing from past clients also sheds light on the agency’s support systems, including logistical and legal support. Agencies that share these success stories are more likely to foster a positive experience, helping you confidently move forward on your path to parenthood.

Questions to Ask Potential Surrogacy Agencies

When selecting a surrogacy agency, it’s essential to ask the right questions to make sure they align with your needs and values. Here are some key questions to consider, along with why their responses matter in choosing the right agency for your surrogacy journey.

The responses to these questions will help you assess the agency’s experience, commitment to your needs, and inclusivity toward LGBTQ+ families. It’s important that you feel confident in the agency’s ability to provide the support and guidance needed for a successful surrogacy journey.

What to Look for in a LGBTQ+ Gay Surrogacy Agency

Before you can start on your surrogacy journey as intended parents, you need to choose a surrogacy agency that can support you throughout the process. As a rule, you’ll have a better experience if you hire an agency with the following qualities:

• Experience working with people in the LGBTQIA+ community in your area
• Understanding of LGBTQIA+ rights in your area and the surrogate’s state
• Access to legal expertise for negotiating contracts, establishing parental rights, and more
• Transparent information about what you can expect at each stage of the process
• Excellent support for surrogates and intended parents

At International Surrogacy Center, we provide services that meet the needs of our intended parents and surrogates and have extensive experience assisting those in the LGBTQ+ community. Our surrogacy program makes matching with a qualified, like-minded surrogate mother that much easier.

Get started on your journey to parenthood today and send us an inquiry for more information about your options for LGBTQIA+, gay or lesbian surrogacy.