In a sea of agencies to select from who is the best surrogacy agency for you?
This webinar shares with intended parents the best practices in evaluating and selecting a surrogacy agency partner.
Webinar Summary
Use this checklist from our webinar to evaluate fit, safeguards, support, and transparency—so you can choose with confidence.
1) Fit & Approach
- Agency style: high-touch support vs. more hands-off.
- Communication cadence & channels (call, text, email) and escalation path.
- Dedicated coordinator and continuity plan if staff changes.
2) Experience & Capacity
- Years in operation; founders’ background in surrogacy/IVF.
- Journeys supported per year; typical coordinator caseload.
- 24/7 emergency coverage; who picks up after hours (supervisor/director/founder).
- Team stability: retention, turnover, and resilience during disruptions.
3) Screening & Readiness
- Surrogate screening scope: medical records review, background checks, drug panels, psychological evaluation, OB clearance.
- IP screening requirements and responsibilities.
- Realistic clearance timelines (avoid rushed one-week “clearances”).
4) Legal, Escrow & Ethics
- Independent attorneys (no in-house counsel for the agency).
- Independent third-party escrow (separate from agency and attorneys).
- Reimbursement process & speed; who tracks expenses and how.
- Typical escrow funding level/schedule to cover the full journey.
- Litigation history, dispute resolution, and mediation support.
- Referral fees: does the agency receive compensation from clinics/attorneys/escrow?
5) Medical & Insurance
- Clinic relationships and locations; experience working with your clinic.
- Choice of OB/hospital; birth-plan guidance and pre-birth orders.
- Insurance guidance (maternity coverage, gap policies, newborn coverage).
6) Support, Counseling & Community
- Counseling for both IPs and surrogates (pre, during, and postpartum).
- Peer community (private groups) and partner resources.
- Clear expectations for check-ins and ongoing support.
7) Cost & Transparency
- Clear fee schedule: what’s included and excluded in the agency fee.
- Surrogate compensation framework and flexibility for your situation.
- Parent brochure and/or cost calculator availability.
- Policies such as “no match, no fee”; when fees are triggered.
- Ability to review the agency agreement with your attorney before signing.
8) Due Diligence
- Team page with names/roles; professional affiliations (e.g., ASRM, SEEDS, RESOLVE, Men Having Babies/GPAP).
- Referrals to past IPs and surrogates; balanced view of reviews.
- Data you’ll receive: timelines, metrics, and current match availability.
Next step:
Compare a few agencies, then commit before starting clearance to avoid duplicative costs. Book a no-pressure consult to review your questions.
