10 Questions To Ask a Surrogacy Agency

When it comes to surrogacy, most of us quickly learn how many moving parts there are behind the scenes. Choosing the right surrogate can be a challenge on its own, and trying to manage the entire surrogacy process without guidance can feel overwhelming. This is where working with a surrogacy agency can make all the difference. Surrogacy agencies help streamline the family building journey, connecting qualified intended parents with well-screened surrogates, and support all parties through matching, medical screening, embryo transfer, legal, and beyond. As an intended parent, identifying the right questions to ask a surrogacy agency early on can help you set realistic expectations before you officially begin the surrogacy journey. So today, I’m sharing a roundup of the most important questions to consider.

10 Questions To Ask a Surrogacy Agency

In this post, I walk you through what you can expect when considering surrogacy agencies, what details truly matter, and how intended parents can feel more confident as they take the next steps to grow their family. Whether you're new to the world of assisted reproduction or already working with a fertility clinic, these questions will help you understand the agency fees, the screening process, what goes into a match, and how an agency guides intended parents and surrogates through each stage. My goal is to make this as informative and approachable as possible—especially for anyone trying to decide which path will lead to a smooth and successful surrogacy experience.

Before we dive in, you can also learn more about the financial side of things by reading my post on the price of surrogacy in US.

What Is A Surrogacy Agency

A surrogacy agency is an organization that helps coordinate the practical, logistical, emotional, medical, and legal aspects of surrogacy on behalf of intended parents and surrogates. These agencies typically handle the initial recruiting and screening process for surrogates, match intended parents with qualified gestational carriers, educate both sides on expectations, and guide everyone through the surrogacy process from beginning to end. They act as the main point of contact, helping schedule steps like match calls, medical screening, and embryo transfer with the fertility clinic, while also ensuring legal protections are in place through the appropriate contracts.

Many families choose to work with a surrogacy agency because the surrogacy journey involves so many steps that can feel intimidating. Agencies bring structure, support, and expertise—especially for first-time intended parents who may not know what to expect. A strong agency can be the key to a smooth, safe, and successful surrogacy experience for everyone involved.

10 Questions To Ask A Surrogacy Agency

1. What Is Your Screening Process for Surrogates?

A thorough screening process is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Ask how surrogates are evaluated—medically, psychologically, and legally. The agency should have clear requirements and a structured system that filters for candidates who are healthy, responsible, and committed to the surrogacy journey.

2. How Do You Match Intended Parents and Surrogates?

Not every match will be the right fit. A strong agency takes time to understand the personalities, expectations, communication styles, and values of both parties. Ask how long matching typically takes and what criteria they use to pair intended parents and surrogates.

3. What Are Your Agency Fees and What Do They Cover?

Every agency structures fees differently. Some offer flat-rate packages, while others break down costs into stages. Ask for a detailed explanation of agency fees—what’s included, what’s not, and how payments are scheduled. This is also the moment to discuss any additional costs that might be included such as legal fees, medical expenses, and compensation benefits for the surrogate.

4. How Do You Support Intended Parents Emotionally and Logistically?

Surrogacy is a major emotional undertaking. Ask what kind of coaching, counseling, or logistical support the agency provides along the way. Do they check in regularly? Do they help you prepare for different phases of the journey? Understanding what resources they offer—and whether those resources extend all the way through delivery—can help you gauge how supported you’ll feel throughout the entire surrogacy process.

5. How Do You Coordinate With the Fertility Clinic?

The agency should work closely with your fertility clinic to schedule medical screenings and the embryo transfer. Ask how communication flows between the agency and clinic and what their role is in keeping everyone informed and on track.

6. What Is the Average Timeline for the Surrogacy Journey?

While every journey is unique, an agency should provide a realistic outline—from initial consultation to matching to embryo transfer to birth. Ask about potential delays and how they navigate unexpected situations.

7. What Support Do You Offer During the Pregnancy?

Support shouldn’t stop once a match is made. A strong agency stays involved throughout the pregnancy, offering check-ins, resources, and guidance for both intended parents and surrogates. Ask what their ongoing involvement looks like and who handles difficult moments if they arise.

8. How Do You Ensure a Positive Surrogacy Experience for Surrogates?

Happy surrogates create healthier, more successful surrogacies. Ask about the agency’s approach to supporting surrogates emotionally, financially, and logistically. This shows how much the agency values the well-being of the women who make family building possible.

9. How Transparent Are You About Costs and Risks?

Surrogacy comes with uncertainties, and no agency should claim otherwise. Ask how they discuss risks, possible complications, or unexpected expenses. Clear communication now prevents confusion later.

10. What Makes Your Agency Different From Others?

Every agency has its strengths—experience, success rates, unique support programs, or long-standing relationships with fertility clinics. This question helps you understand their priorities and whether their values align with how you want to grow your family.

Choosing a surrogacy agency is one of the first major decisions you’ll make on your path to parenthood. The right agency will guide you with honesty, expertise, and care—helping you feel supported from your first consultation all the way to birth. Asking thoughtful questions is one of the best ways to understand who you’ll be trusting with such an important chapter in your life.