Surrogacy is generally known as the act of helping a couple to become parents who are unable to have a baby. Many countries are doing the best to make their citizens capable of being parents through the use of surrogates, however some countries still consider it illegal and don’t make any arrangements to help couples who need surrogate mothers for them to become parents. While the process can be a life changing feat in itself to the parents and the surrogate who is going to carry the baby, it most definitely takes a wealth on monetarily. How can helping a couple in becoming parents go hand in hand with being on a budget? First it is important to have an overview of what the journey entails.
The process of being a surrogate and welcoming the couple’s baby into life is the same for many. Inviting the couple who needs a surrogate can be a long process and a very expensive one. While some agencies are not needed to apply, some regulations in certain states may require a third party agency to be the central coordinator of the surrogate and the parent. There are a few steps that walk you through the ins and outs of the journey. The surrogate needs to open their application with the correct documentation, find a match, have a screening, sign a medical release form, talk about expectations, screen for disease during fertility treatments, finalize the surrogacy agreement format, insemination and baby on board!
This is such an amazing experience that just like any other person looking to have a baby, learning the ropes are quite costly. Not only is there money involved in the meal prep, but also in their daily nutritional regime. The journey is not an easy one. It is very much expensive and requires financial preparations. The surrogate is continuously having tests to monitor her health, it is all about balance. From vitamins, to maintaining high nutritional consumption, grocery shopping can be a very expensive addition for the surrogate.
And then there is the legal side of the journey. Having the correct contract between the surrogate and parents is a must. For any parent looking into using a surrogate, they will need to have the correct legal representation for this venture or they can easily be taken advantage of. A common contract for a surrogacy agreement includes the following:
- Signature of approval
- Defining the agreement
- Medical fees
- Surrogate compensation
- Liability protection
- Level of confidentiality
- Essential clauses
- Termination clauses
- Laws and jurisdiction
Having a lawyer you can trust is always a plus. Many people think that they can simply use the surrogacy agreement format that has been in the public domain, however that must be thoroughly approved by the attorney who is going to write the contract. When looking for legal representation, consider asking people around you who have previously had a similar experience with a surrogate or look online for the best affordable lawyer. Having a budget in mind while going through the processes is critical as you don’t want to be spending money if you don’t have to, especially when there is a free option available for you. Many people have been through the surrogacy process and were able to save money through using a free surrogate agreement format, with the help of a lawyer who was well versed in the topic. This enables you to have money for any additional treatments that might be required after you’re in the pink of health.
Making any payment structure work suit for you is acceptable during this process. Helping someone become a parent is a wonderful experience, however the process isn’t cheap. It takes a lot of emotional strength and mental stamina to be able to walk through the process hand in hand with your very own family. Make it work and you will have your own little bundle of joy to enjoy!
For more information on surrogacy laws and regulations, you can visit Child Welfare Information Gateway.