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 Is a Pre-Birth Order and How Does It Protect Your Family?

March 20, 2026 · 6 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

A Pre-Birth Order (PBO) is a court order that establishes the Intended Parents as the legal parents of the child before the baby is born.

How It Works

Around week 28-32 of pregnancy, the Intended Parents' attorney files a petition with the California Superior Court. The court reviews the Gestational Surrogacy Agreement and issues the order — typically within 2-4 weeks.

What the PBO Does

Places the Intended Parents' names on the birth certificate
Establishes legal parentage before delivery
Eliminates the need for any adoption proceedings
Gives Intended Parents immediate legal authority for the child's medical care

At the Hospital

When the baby is born, the hospital has the court order on file. The Intended Parents are legally recognized as the parents from the moment of birth. There is no custody dispute. There is no waiting period.

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

The Pre-Birth Order is the document I talk about most when I explain why California is where families should do this. Your name is on the birth certificate before your baby is born. There is no ambiguity at the hospital. There is no paperwork delay.

For families who have already been through so much — fertility treatments, loss, years of trying — the clarity of the PBO is not a legal technicality. It is the moment when everything becomes real and certain in a way it has not been before.

— 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.