How long does the surrogacy process take in California?

The entire surrogacy journey typically takes 12-18 months from initial consultation to birth, depending on various factors including matching time and medical procedures.

What are the California surrogacy requirements to become a surrogate?

To become a surrogate in California, you must be between 21-40 years old, have had at least one successful pregnancy, maintain a healthy BMI, be a non-smoker, and live in a stable environment.

How much does surrogacy cost in California?

Total surrogacy journey costs typically range from $150,000 to $230,000+, including agency fees ($42,500), surrogate compensation, medical expenses, legal fees, insurance, and escrow. Every dollar is accounted for before you commit.

How much compensation do surrogates receive?

At On Fertility Ground, surrogates set their own base compensation rate — your worth, your choice. We never negotiate your rate down. Additional benefits include maternity clothing ($750-$1,000), monthly expense allowance ($250/month), embryo transfer fees, and more.

Intended Parents

The Surrogacy Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Intended Parents

March 5, 2026 · 10 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

The surrogacy process can feel overwhelming before you understand the steps. Here is the complete roadmap.

Step 1: Consultation

A personal conversation to understand your goals, answer your questions, and determine if OFG is the right fit.

Step 2: Application & Intake

Complete your intended parent profile. This helps us understand your preferences for matching.

Step 3: Matching

We present surrogate profiles based on shared values, compatibility, and your preferences. Both parties must agree to the match.

Step 4: Legal Contracts

Both parties retain independent attorneys. The Gestational Surrogacy Agreement is drafted, negotiated, and signed. The escrow account is fully funded after contract signing — including base compensation, all projected expenses, and a 15% contingency buffer.

Step 5: Medical Process

Surrogate begins medication protocol. Embryo transfer occurs at the fertility clinic. Pregnancy is confirmed 10-14 days later.

Step 6: Pregnancy

Regular prenatal care with the surrogate's OB. OFG coordinates communication and provides support throughout.

Step 7: Pre-Birth Order

Around week 30, your attorney files for the Pre-Birth Order establishing you as the legal parents before birth.

Step 8: Delivery & Going Home

Your baby is born. Your names are on the birth certificate. You go home as a family.

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

The length of this process is not a bug. It is a feature. The matching phase takes time because a careful match is a protected match. The legal phase takes time because a thorough contract is a protective contract. The medical clearance takes time because a well-prepared uterus is a healthy uterus.

Every week of this process exists for a reason. If you are the kind of person who needs certainty about timing, I understand. Reach out and let's talk about where you are and whether this is the right time to start.

— Bree | info@onfertilityground.com

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you're considering surrogacy as a surrogate or an intended parent, we're here to answer every question personally.

Become a Surrogate Intended Parent Inquiry

Email us at info@onfertilityground.com — We answer every inquiry personally.