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.

Legal

What Your Surrogate Contract Actually Covers — In Plain Language

February 5, 2026 · 9 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

The Gestational Surrogacy Agreement (GSA) is a binding contract governed by California Family Code Section 7962. You have your own independent attorney — paid for by the Intended Parents.

What the GSA Covers

Compensation: Every component locked in and cannot be reduced once signed
Medical decisions: Belong to you and your physicians. Intended Parents cannot direct your care.
Parental rights: Intended Parents established as legal parents via Pre-Birth Order
Health insurance: Intended Parents responsible for all pregnancy-related expenses
Selective reduction: Both parties' positions documented; ultimate decision remains with you
Confidentiality: Both parties protect each other's information
Communication: Expected contact frequency and methods documented

What the GSA Cannot Require

Cannot require you to undergo any procedure you refuse
Cannot require medical decisions against your judgment
Cannot require carrying a pregnancy that endangers your life
Cannot waive your right to mental health support
Cannot prevent independent legal counsel

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

I remember the first time I read a Gestational Surrogacy Agreement in full. It took me three passes to understand all of it. I kept thinking: what woman is going to sign this without someone walking her through every single line?

California law requiring the surrogate to have her own independent attorney exists precisely because of that problem. But the law requiring it and a woman actually understanding what her attorney is protecting are two different things. This article exists in the gap between those two.

If you are going through the GSA process right now and something does not make sense — ask your attorney. Ask again. Do not sign anything you do not fully understand.

— 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.