Understanding Escrow and Surrogate Compensation—A Journey of Trust

Surrogacy is built on trust—and one of the most important tools for maintaining that trust is the escrow account. From the moment a match is made to the final postpartum milestone, escrow ensures that surrogate compensation is handled securely, fairly, and transparently.

Let’s walk through how escrow works and what surrogates can expect throughout the journey.

🏦 What Is Escrow in Surrogacy?

An escrow account is a secure, third-party financial service that holds and distributes funds according to the terms outlined in the legal contract. It protects both the surrogate and the intended parents by ensuring payments are made on time and according to agreed-upon milestones.

At Little Miracles Surrogacy, we work with trusted escrow partners who specialize in reproductive arrangements. Their role is to:

• Receive and hold funds from the intended parents

• Track contract milestones and payment schedules

• Disburse payments to the surrogate as outlined in the agreement

• Provide clear statements and updates to all parties

📝 Note: Escrow can be set up at any time prior to legal contracts being signed. However, it must be fully set up and funded once the legal contracts are finalized. This ensures that compensation begins promptly and that all parties are protected moving forward.

💰 Surrogate Compensation—What’s Included?

Surrogate compensation varies based on experience, location, and specific arrangements, but it typically includes:

• Base compensation – the agreed-upon amount for carrying the pregnancy

• Transfer fee – paid after embryo transfer

• Maternity clothing allowance – usually around the second trimester

• Start of medications fee – when the surrogate begins her medical protocol

• Invasive procedure fees – for things like amniocentesis or D&C, if needed

• Multiples fee – if carrying twins or more

• C-section fee – if a cesarean delivery is required

• Lost wages – if the surrogate must miss work due to medical appointments or recovery

• Postpartum recovery – a final payment after delivery and clearance from her OB

Each of these payments is outlined in the legal contract and scheduled through escrow to ensure timely delivery.

📅 Escrow Through the Journey

Here’s how escrow supports the surrogate journey from start to finish:

Stage	Escrow Activity
Match & Legal	Escrow may be set up early; must be funded once contracts are signed
Medication Start	Surrogate receives a medication start fee
Transfer	Transfer fee is paid after the procedure
Pregnancy Confirmation	Monthly allowance begins; additional fees may apply for multiples or procedures
Second Trimester	Maternity clothing allowance is disbursed
Delivery	Final base compensation and any delivery-related fees are paid
Postpartum Recovery	Recovery fee is paid after OB clearance

Throughout the process, surrogates receive regular updates and can access their payment history through the escrow portal.

🤝 Why Escrow Matters

Escrow isn’t just about money—it’s about peace of mind. It ensures:

• Surrogates are paid fairly and on time

• Intended parents have confidence that funds are managed professionally

• Agencies can focus on support and coordination, knowing finances are secure

At Little Miracles Surrogacy, we believe that every part of the journey should feel safe, respectful, and empowering. Escrow is one of the ways we make that happen.