Although gestational surrogacy is a fantastic option to create a family, for many people, the process can be overwhelming at times. Surrogacy laws and regulations vary from state to state, so if you are planning a surrogacy journey, either as an intended parent or by becoming a surrogate yourself, it’s crucial for you to understand state specific laws. Below, we will walk you though the basics of the Texas surrogacy process.
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Is Paid Surrogacy Legal in Texas?
Gestational surrogacy for married couples is entirely legal in Texas, both for those wanting to become a surrogate as well as those wanting to use the surrogacy process to build their families. Because of marriage equality, Texas also guarantees identical surrogacy rights for LGBTQ married couples as well as heterosexual married couples. If you are pursuing this option, you can find laws pertaining to your rights in the Texas Family Code.
Texas Surrogacy Contract
The surrogacy contract is a legal document that both the intended parents as well as the surrogate must sign before the surrogacy process can begin. Texas state law requires a judge’s approval on the document, and all parties must complete the document at least two weeks before the embryo transfer appointment.
The surrogacy contract is extremely important for both parties. For surrogates, this document outlines her medical rights and the agreed-upon compensation. For intended parents, the state of Texas allows them to establish legal parentage in a surrogacy contract. Please note that this document is a legal guarantee only for married couples. However, single intended parents and unmarried couples can also obtain these rights. If you are unmarried and wish to proceed with surrogacy in Texas, consult a surrogacy lawyer for guidance on your particular situation.
You can find more information on legal considerations here.
How to Become a Surrogate in Texas?
Becoming a surrogate is a marvelous way for you to change a family’s life for the better, as surrogates help others have children when it otherwise would not be possible. Texas also allows surrogate mothers to receive compensation for the time and effort they dedicate to the surrogacy process. If you are a healthy, financially-stable woman who has already given birth and is raising a child, you may qualify to become a surrogate. Contact our team today for more information on the surrogacy application process. If you are ready to apply, fill out this quick online application form here.
Your surrogacy journey begins with a short online surrogate application. Once that is done and you have met the initial qualifications, you’ll embark on a much more detailed process including a review of your medical records, a thorough medical screening that will include bloodwork and an ultrasound of your ovaries and uterus, plus a psychological screening and a home assessment. After all of this is complete, matching takes place, finalized by a legal surrogacy agreement. You can see all of the steps on how to become a surrogate in Texas here.
How Much do Surrogates Get Paid in Texas?
First time surrogates in Texas can expect to be paid $50k and possibly more, depending on individual circumstances, such as carrying twins. For women who are planning to become a surrogate for a second or third time, the compensation is considerably more.
There are also other surrogacy benefits including a surrogate maternity clothing allowance, paid travel expenses, childcare costs reimbursement if related to the pregnancy, and if necessary, lost wages reimbursement.
For more information on surrogate pay and benefits please see this page.
Requirements to Become a Surrogate in Texas
To qualify for becoming a surrogate mother in the state of Texas, you must meet some basic qualifications.
- You must be under the age of 40 due to higher pregnancy risks as women age.
- You must be a U.S. citizen (or permanent resident).
- You or anyone else in your household must not have a criminal record.
- You must have excellent physical and emotional health and no history of smoking or drug use.
- You must have already carried a pregnancy to term and be raising at least one child.
You can find more information on who qualifies to become a surrogate here.
Once you have met our basic requirements and submitted your application, we will set up a comprehensive screening process that includes medical, psychological and socio-economic evaluations. These ensure you are a great candidate to become a surrogate in Texas and also ensure that the surrogate journey will be as safe as possible for both you and the baby. You can see more information about our screening process here.
If you have questions about becoming a surrogate, please contact us here. To start the application process, go to our online surrogacy application form.
Texas Surrogacy for Gay Men
For gay men, surrogacy is a popular and effective way to start a family. Thanks to marriage equality, Texas now guarantees the same surrogacy rights for LGBTQ married couples as they do for heterosexual married couples. Like unmarried heterosexual couples, unmarried LGBTQ couples in Texas may need to complete an adoption process after the birth of their child if they are unable to establish parentage in a surrogacy contract.
Further information on family building and surrogacy for gay men can be found here.
How Much Do Surrogates Cost in Texas?
One of the first questions intended parents often have is how much do surrogates cost in Texas. We are very upfront about costs. Unlike many other agencies who display lower prices excluding legal expenses and other fees, we are transparent.
The average total cost for our full surrogacy process usually falls between $140,000 and $160,000. Individual circumstances like C-sections or twin pregnancies may affect the cost. See our cost page for details.
How Do I Find a Surrogate in Texas?
We will guide you through the entire process of finding a surrogate in Texas. You will only be matched with surrogates who have already been medically and psychologically cleared.
After matching, you’ll receive access to surrogate profiles. Our team will guide you based on your requirements. Once agreements are signed, the embryo transfer can be scheduled. You can read more about finding a surrogate here.
Texas Surrogacy Agency
Pinnacle Surrogacy is among the best surrogate agencies in Texas and nationwide. We work with surrogates across the U.S., and our intended parents come from both domestic and international locations.
Our professional team includes many former surrogates, and we work with a world-renowned fertility specialist. Most surrogates are screened prior to matching.
Start Your Texas Surrogacy Journey
As you prepare to start your Texas surrogacy journey, here are some FAQs. For prospective surrogates and intended parents, see our Surrogacy FAQ.
We also have a page on epigenetics and the surrogate’s DNA. Whether you’re looking to welcome a child or become a surrogate in Texas, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Contact us here or call us at 877 261 0392. We look forward to helping you!
