Base compensation from $60,000 for first-time surrogates is the proposed 2026 figure, up from $55,000. Confirm with Nancy before publishing.
What is in the package besides the base?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base compensation, first-time surrogate | From $60,000 |
| Base compensation, experienced surrogate | $65,000 to $70,000 |
| Monthly allowance | $300 a month |
| Medication start | $500 |
| Embryo transfer | $1,000 per transfer |
| Multiples | $5,000 for twins, $10,000 for triplets |
| Maternity clothing | $750, or $1,000 for multiples |
| Breast milk pumping, if you choose to | $200 a week |
| Housekeeping | $90 a week from 32 weeks |
| Lost wages | For you and your partner, as set in your contract |
| Life insurance | A policy of up to $750,000 in force before transfer |
| Support | Six consultations with a registered dietitian, and mental-health support |
Typical total package: roughly $68,000 to $78,000 for a first-time surrogate. Confirm every figure with Nancy.
Why does PLS publish the base and not an "up to" number?
An "up to" figure adds payments that only happen if something goes wrong, such as a cesarean or bed rest, and presents them as pay. PLS states the base and the benefits separately, in writing, before matching, so you can compare agencies on what you will actually receive. That is commitment number eight in the PLS Standard.
How is the money protected?
Your compensation never sits with the agency. The intended parents fund an independent licensed escrow account, $10,000 at match and the balance before medications start, and the escrow agent pays you on the schedule in your contract. If an agency fails, the escrow account does not. In 2025 and 2026 PLS took on three surrogates whose agencies had collapsed and completed their journeys pro bono.
Is surrogate compensation taxed?
There is no definitive IRS ruling. Many surrogates and CPAs treat base compensation as taxable income and reimbursements as non-taxable. Set aside 20 to 30 percent and talk to a CPA before your first payment. PLS does not give tax advice.