Wisconsin Surrogacy

Before you start planning for a surrogacy journey, you should investigate your options and determine what you can expect from the process where you live. Wisconsin provides some legal protections for surrogates and intended parents who live in the state. At International Surrogacy Center, we have experience working with Wisconsin surrogates. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate in Wisconsin, we can help you turn your goals into reality. Here are a few things you should know.

SURROGACY SERVICES IN WISCONSIN

Surrogacy in Wisconsin has become an increasingly popular path for individuals and couples looking to build their families. Whether for same-sex couples, individuals dealing with infertility, or those wishing to expand their families in other ways, surrogacy offers a viable solution to overcoming reproductive challenges. In Wisconsin, compensated surrogacy is supported by specialized agencies, legal professionals, and a network of resources designed to guide both surrogates and intended parents through the process.

The Importance of Surrogacy Agencies

The role of surrogacy agencies is central in Wisconsin, as they facilitate the matching process between the intended parent and surrogate. These agencies not only handle the initial match but also manage the medical, legal, and emotional components of the journey. They coordinate medical appointments, offer ongoing support throughout the pregnancy, and provide the necessary assistance to both parties every step of the way.

Surrogacy agencies in Wisconsin offer a range of services designed to support both surrogates and intended parents. These services include:

Matching Surrogates with Intended Parents: Agencies conduct thorough screenings to match surrogates with intended parents based on compatibility, preferences, and medical history.
Medical and Legal Coordination: Agencies work closely with medical clinics and legal professionals to guide both parties through the medical procedures, including IVF, and the legal steps needed to establish parental rights and sign surrogacy contracts.
Psychological Support: Surrogacy agencies often provide counseling services to support both intended parents and surrogates throughout the journey. They also offer post-birth counseling if necessary.
Legal Assistance: Surrogacy agencies partner with experienced legal professionals who assist with contracts, parental rights, and navigating state-specific laws surrounding surrogacy.

Legal Requirements in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, there are no specific state laws that explicitly govern surrogacy, which can make the process more complex compared to states with clearer legal frameworks. However, the state recognizes surrogacy agreements under certain conditions, and it’s important for all parties to engage legal professionals who specialize in surrogacy and can provide guidance on all aspects including:

Legal Contracts: The contract between the Wisconsin surrogate and the intended parents is crucial. It defines the financial compensation, medical expectations, and parental rights. It is important to work with an attorney who specializes in reproductive and surrogacy law to draft and review these contracts to avoid disputes.
Parental Rights: In Wisconsin, parental rights are typically established at birth. However, intended parents, especially those in same-sex couples, may need to go through additional steps to secure legal parentage through pre-birth orders or post-birth adoption, depending on the circumstances.
State Recognition: While surrogacy agreements are not prohibited, Wisconsin does not have a clear-cut law regarding the enforceability of surrogacy contracts. As a result, working with experienced professionals is essential to legal clarity and the protection of parental rights.

Services for Surrogates and Intended Parents

Both surrogates and intended parents require comprehensive services throughout the surrogacy process. Surrogates need emotional, legal, and financial support, while intended parents need help navigating the medical and legal aspects of surrogacy. The following provides an overview of the support provided to both groups in Wisconsin:

Surrogates

Surrogates are carefully selected and thoroughly vetted before being matched with intended parents. They undergo medical and psychological screening to confirm they are fit for the pregnancy. Once a surrogate is selected, the agency offers continuous support throughout the pregnancy.

Medical and Psychological Screening: Surrogates undergo a thorough medical exam to confirm they are physically healthy and able to carry a child. Psychological screening is also required to confirm they are mentally and emotionally prepared for the demands of the surrogacy process.
Compensation and Legal Protections: Surrogates in Wisconsin are typically compensated for their time, effort, and emotional investment. The compensation package varies based on the agency, but surrogates are generally provided with payment for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Legal protections are also put in place to respect the surrogate’s rights and provide her with adequate support throughout the pregnancy.
Emotional Support: Emotional counseling is offered to surrogates to help them navigate any feelings or concerns during the pregnancy. Surrogacy can be an emotional experience, and agencies provide counseling to address these emotions and offer continuous guidance.

Intended Parents

Intended parents need a different kind of support, as they are often navigating an unfamiliar and emotional process. Wisconsin surrogacy agencies offer many services to guide intended parents through every step of the journey.

Matching with a Surrogate: Once the intended parents are ready to begin the process, the agency helps match them with a surrogate. The agency confirms that the surrogate meets the medical, psychological, and emotional needs of the parents.
Legal and Medical Coordination: Agencies coordinate medical appointments with fertility specialists and IVF clinics to facilitate the embryo transfer. They also work with legal professionals to draw up contracts and establish parental rights.
Emotional and Psychological Support: Like surrogates, intended parents often receive counseling services, particularly when dealing with the challenges that can arise during the surrogacy process. Agencies provide support through every stage of the pregnancy and work to maintain communication between all parties involved.
Financial Support and Planning: Agencies assist intended parents in navigating the financial aspects of surrogacy, offering advice on budgeting and explaining the breakdown of costs. Financial planning is essential for intended parents to understand the full scope of the costs involved, including agency fees, medical procedures, surrogate compensation, and legal expenses.

LAWS CONCERNING SURROGACY IN WISCONSIN

Wisconsin offers legal protections for surrogates based on court precedent, even if there are no specific Wisconsin surrogacy laws. A 2013 court case ruled that Wisconsin will uphold enforcement of surrogacy contracts, specifically tied to the child’s best interest. This ruling applies to both gestational surrogacy and traditional surrogacy, although there may be additional hurdles for traditional surrogates. Given that surrogacy contracts are enforceable in the state, there’s no rule preventing surrogates from receiving compensation for a surrogacy journey. Although the path seems relatively clear for Wisconsin surrogacy, it’s important to find an agency to help you navigate the Wisconsin surrogacy law process.

COSTS AND COMPENSATION FOR SURROGACY

Because there are a number of expenses related to the surrogacy experience, it’s wise for you to understand how costs are handled and what you can expect. Surrogate compensation depends on the individual journey, and your compensation package can vary depending on several factors. Typically, surrogates receive $60,000-$76,000+ in compensation, which may come in the form of payments for expenses, a stipend, a salary, or lump sum payments at various points during the process.

Compensation usually covers most concerns, from multivitamins and maternity clothes to doctor visits and procedures. You should feel free to ask about any expenses. The costs are handled by the agency on behalf of the intended parents, who usually pay $125,000 to $175,000 or more overall.

HOW TO FIND A SURROGACY AGENCY

As you progress toward becoming a surrogate mother in Wisconsin — or a gestational surrogate — you need to choose an agency to represent you throughout your experience. Agencies act as a bridge between surrogates and intended parents, to make sure that everyone involved follows state rules and receives what they need. Before you choose an agency, you should find one that provides a good fit, including:

Knowledge of Wisconsin standards and experience working with surrogates in the state
Reliable communication in a format that works for you
Considerate, experienced staff members
Caring support for surrogates

Talk to each agency, so that you can get a sense for which one will best meet your needs.

BECOMING A SURROGATE IN WISCONSIN

For many people, starting the process is the biggest step in becoming a surrogate. You can make sure that you are ready by completing these tasks:

Consulting your schedule to choose an ideal time for a surrogacy
Letting your family and friends know about your plans
Confirming that your body can handle being a surrogate mother with a medical screening
Selecting an agency to help you
Working with the agency to match with intended parents

Although the intended parents’ journey is unique, there are some similarities. They work with the agency to handle the costs and other requirements, and then they match with a surrogate.

FINANCIAL AND SUPPORT ASPECTS OF SURROGACY IN WISCONSIN

The financial aspect of surrogacy can be overwhelming, and understanding the cost breakdown and available financial assistance options is key to making the process more manageable.

Surrogacy Costs in Wisconsin

Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment, and understanding the various costs involved is essential. Below is a breakdown of the typical expenses:

Agency Fees: Wisconsin surrogacy agency fees typically range from $25,000-$45,000, depending on the services provided. This includes matching intended parents with a surrogate, coordinating medical and legal services, and offering counseling support.
Medical Expenses: Medical expenses include IVF procedures, fertility medications, 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 fees typically range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. These fees cover the drafting of surrogacy contracts, pre-birth orders, and establishing parental rights. Additional legal fees may be necessary if any complications arise during the process.
Surrogate Compensation: Surrogate compensation can vary, but it typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000+. Surrogates are compensated for their time, effort, medical expenses, and the emotional toll of pregnancy. Additional compensation may be offered for carrying multiples or if any complications arise.
Miscellaneous Costs: Additional costs include travel expenses for the surrogate, insurance, and potential medical procedures required during the pregnancy. These costs can add up to several thousand dollars, depending on the situation.

Disclaimer: The cost figures mentioned above are general estimates and may vary based on the agency, location, and specific circumstances of the surrogacy process.

Financial Assistance and Affordable Surrogacy Options

While surrogacy can be expensive, there are financial assistance programs available to help reduce the financial burden for intended parents:

Grants and Scholarships: Some organizations provide grants and scholarships to help cover surrogacy costs for families in need. These programs are often targeted at LGBTQ+ families or those who may face financial hardship.
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.
Insurance Coverage: Some insurance policies may cover a portion of the surrogacy process, including IVF or prenatal care. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your policy.
Payment Plans: Many surrogacy agencies offer payment plans to help intended parents manage the financial aspects of surrogacy. Payment plans can spread the cost over several months or years, making it easier for families to budget.

Support Networks in Wisconsin

Surrogacy can be an emotional journey, and it is essential to have a support system in place. Wisconsin offers several resources to help intended parents and surrogates cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of surrogacy.

Surrogacy Support Groups: Wisconsin has several support groups that bring together surrogates, intended parents, and others involved in the process. These groups provide a space for sharing experiences, offering advice, and offering emotional support.
Counseling Services: Both surrogates and intended parents can access counseling services to help them navigate the emotional challenges that come with surrogacy. Agencies often provide referrals to therapists specializing in fertility and reproductive counseling.
Community Organizations: There are also local community organizations that provide additional resources and support for LGBTQ+ families pursuing surrogacy. These organizations offer counseling, financial advice, and resources for families at all stages of the surrogacy process.

INTERNATIONAL SURROGACY CENTER CAN HELP

If you feel like surrogacy is a wonderful choice for you, International Surrogacy Center can help. We provide Wisconsin surrogacy services to people just like you, with competitive surrogate benefit packages, staff members who have often gone through this process, and monthly Zoom support group meetings.