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.
Wisconsin Surrogacy
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 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 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 $50,000 to $75,000 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.
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 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.
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.
Contact us to learn more about our services or to start your surrogacy venture.