How to evaluate a surrogacy agency

An agency coordinates a journey; a fertility clinic makes medical decisions and qualified attorneys advise on legal arrangements. Ask which services the agency provides itself and which are delivered by outside professionals.

In gestational surrogacy, the carrier carries an embryo created through IVF and does not provide the egg. Traditional surrogacy is a different arrangement with different legal and emotional considerations.

Ask how medical and psychological evaluations are organized, how informed consent is documented and how each party obtains independent legal advice. Screening should support both the carrier and the intended parents, not simply accelerate a match.

Parentage, insurance coverage and enforceability vary by location. Obtain advice in every relevant jurisdiction before paying substantial fees or signing an agreement. An agency’s reassurance is not a substitute for legal advice.

Request an itemized budget covering agency services, carrier compensation and reimbursements, insurance, legal fees, IVF, escrow administration and travel. Ask who controls funds, how withdrawals are authorized and what happens if a match ends.

Timelines are estimates. Matching, screening, legal work and treatment can each take longer than expected. Understand rematching terms and support during complications.