Change Someone’s Life

Become a surrogate.

Becoming a surrogate is an extraordinary act of generosity–one that gives hopeful parents the greatest gift imaginable. If you’re considering this journey, we’re honored to walk beside you every step of the way.

Change Someone’s Life

Become a surrogate.

Becoming a surrogate is an extraordinary act of generosity–one that gives hopeful parents the greatest gift imaginable. If you’re considering this journey, we’re honored to walk beside you every step of the way.

What is a Surrogate?

A gestational carrier—commonly referred to as a surrogate—is a woman who carries and delivers a baby for another person or couple. The embryo is created through IVF (in vitro fertilization) using the intended parents’ or donors’ egg and sperm. That means the baby is not biologically related to the surrogate.

Before the embryo is transferred, surrogates undergo medical screenings, take injectable hormones to prepare their uterine lining, and complete an embryo transfer at a fertility clinic.

This selfless act can make dreams come true for the intended parents. 

Why Become a Surrogate with Surrogacy Pathway?

A Life-Changing Experience

Few experiences are as impactful as helping someone become a parent. As a surrogate, you’ll forever be part of a family’s story. Committing this selfless act will impact your life and the lives of others in a wonderful way.

Financial Compensation

In addition to the joy you will experience, surrogates also receive generous compensation for their time, commitment, and physical effort. At Surrogacy Pathway, we ensure you are fully supported—medically, legally, emotionally, and financially.

A Strong Support System

From your first application, our expert team will support you every step of the way. We’ll guide you through the process, answer your questions, and connect you with trusted medical, legal, and mental health professionals to ensure a safe, smooth, and rewarding surrogacy journey.

Part of Something Bigger

Surrogacy Pathway is a division of Jewish Family and Children’s Services, a trusted community institution that has been caring for families for 175 years. When you partner with us, your journey supports not only a growing family, but also vital programs for others in need.

Typical Compensation Includes

$55,000–$60,000 (varies by location)

$75,000–$80,000

  • Contract signing
  • Injection start
  • Embryo transfer
  • Maternity clothes stipend
  • Multiple pregnancy
  • Lost wages and travel expenses as needed

The Surrogacy Roadmap

The surrogacy process can seem overwhelming—but we’re here to simplify it. Our roadmap takes you through what to expect, from application to matching, pregnancy, and beyond.

Use our Compensation Calculator

Estimate what you could earn based on your location and experience.

Who Can Become a Surrogate With Us?

To ensure the safety and success of all involved, gestational carrier candidates must meet the following criteria:

Age:

Between 21 and 40 years old

Good health:

In good physical, emotional, and mental health, with no significant medical complications (medical records will be reviewed as part of the screening process)

At least one healthy pregnancy and delivery:

At least one prior healthy pregnancy and delivery, with no complications; at least one biological child currently living in your home

Strong support system:

It is of the utmost importance that all gestational carrier candidates have the support of their friends and family during their journey. Candidates must also have a stable income and not rely on government assistance.

No tobacco use:

Because of the dangers that tobacco use poses on yourself and your pregnancy, gestational carriers must be free from tobacco use at least 12 months prior to starting their journey and cannot be exposed to second-hand smoke.

Ability to pass a background check:

All candidates and adults in the household must pass a criminal background check and complete a home visit

Motivated by meaning:

While you will be compensated for your time and effort, successful surrogates are deeply motivated by the desire to help others experience the joy of parenthood

*Surrogacy Pathway follows the American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines.

What to Expect From the Surrogacy Process

Becoming a gestational carrier is an extraordinary journey—and our team is here to guide you through each step with compassion and expertise.

Application & Initial Screening

Start by completing our online application and questionnaire (link). If you meet the basic requirements, a dedicated surrogacy coordinator will guide you through the screening process, which includes:

  • Introductory call
  • Review of medical and prenatal records
  • Psychological screening
  • Criminal background check
    Home visit

Profile Creation & Matching

Once approved, we’ll create your surrogate profile and begin the matching process. We’ll connect you with intended parents whose values and goals align with yours. When both sides are excited to move forward, we’ll schedule a match meeting to ensure a mutual connection.

Medical Evaluation

If you match, you’ll undergo a comprehensive medical screening at the intended parents’ fertility clinic. This includes:

  • Infectious disease testing
  • Hormonal lab work
  • Ultrasound and saline sonogram
  • Physical examination

Legal, Financial & Psychological Support

We ensure that you’re supported from every angle:

  • Legal: You’ll have your own surrogacy attorney to represent you during contract review and signing.
  • Financial: An escrow account will be established for secure, trackable compensation.
  • Psychological: You’ll receive dedicated support from a mental health professional with expertise in surrogacy, along with optional joint counseling with the intended parents and your partner (if applicable).

Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond

From your positive pregnancy test to delivery and postpartum, we are here for you. Your well-being—and the baby’s—is our top priority. We stay in close touch to ensure your experience is joyful, supported, and centered around your needs.

Surrogate FAQs

Have more questions about the process, timeline, or legal aspects?

How Surrogacy Pathway Supports You

At Surrogacy Pathway, we know this journey is meaningful—and complex. That’s why we offer comprehensive support from start to finish, including:

  • Full medical and life insurance
  • Ongoing guidance from a dedicated team of surrogacy professionals
  • Legal representation and protection
  • Personalized mental health care
  • A generous and transparent compensation package
  • Travel coordination and expense coverage (if applicable)

You’re never alone on this path. We’re here to make sure you feel supported, heard, and empowered.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re ready to help create a family—and start your own remarkable journey—fill out an application to start the conversation with us.

Here to Listen, Here to Help.

Have questions before you begin? Contact us—we’re here for you and happy to help.