This guide shows how to find a surrogate step by step with expert support from EDSI. Legal, emotional, and matching help included.
- Work with a licensed agency like EDSI for safety and legal protection
- Ask your fertility clinic for referrals
- Use tools like Matching Compass™ to speed up the process
- Understand state laws with a reproductive attorney
- Look for surrogates who meet strict medical and emotional criteria
How to Find a Surrogate: Your Trusted Guide for 2025
If you’re wondering how to find a surrogate, you’re not alone. This question comes up every day for hopeful parents, and the journey can feel overwhelming without expert guidance. I’m Parham Zar, Managing Director of the Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI). For over 20 years, I’ve helped people build families through surrogacy with compassion and clarity. This guide will show you how to find a surrogate, step by step, so you can begin your journey feeling confident and supported.
How to Find a Surrogate Through an Agency
For many intended parents, especially those new to the process, a surrogacy agency provides invaluable support and expertise. Agencies manage every detail of the process, allowing you to focus on preparing for your new arrival.
A full-service agency handles:
- Recruiting and screening: Agencies maintain a network of pre-screened, qualified surrogate candidates who have completed medical, psychological, and background checks.
- Matching: A great agency focuses on creating a compatible surrogate match based on personality, legal factors, and communication preferences.
- Coordination: They manage the logistics between fertility clinics, legal teams, psychological support, and escrow account managers.
- Support: They offer emotional and practical guidance for you and your surrogate from the initial match through well after birth.
At EDSI, we pride ourselves on a relationship-focused approach. When you search for a “surrogacy agency near me,” it is not just about location; it is about finding a team that feels like family. We ensure every intended parent feels supported, informed, and cared for throughout their journey.
Explore our detailed surrogacy process guide here.
Can Clinics Help You Find a Surrogate?
Your fertility clinic is the medical heart of your surrogacy journey. While their primary role is to handle IVF, some larger clinics have a small pool of surrogate candidates or partner with trusted agencies. It is always a good idea to ask your reproductive endocrinologist for referrals. They can connect you with agencies and attorneys they trust, providing a warm lead to begin your search.
Legal Steps in How to Find a Surrogate
No matter which path you choose, working with a reputable reproductive attorney is essential. This is one of the safest and smartest investments you can make.
- Draft and negotiate the Gestational Surrogacy Agreement covering compensation, medical decisions, and parental rights.
- File necessary legal paperwork to establish your parentage—typically through a pre-birth order.
- Advise you on state-specific surrogacy laws to ensure your rights are protected.
What Makes a Great Surrogate?
Choosing the right surrogate means finding a partner for this incredible journey. At EDSI, every surrogate in our program meets important qualifications to protect her health and the integrity of the process:
- Has had at least one healthy, uncomplicated pregnancy
- Lives in a stable, supportive environment
- Has passed thorough medical and psychological screenings
- Has a genuine, altruistic desire to help another family
- Shares your values about communication and medical decisions
- Is willing to maintain open and honest communication throughout the process
Learn more about how we support intended parents here.
Why Families Trust EDSI to Help Them Find a Surrogate
At EDSI, we know you are not just looking for a process—you are looking for a partner. For over 20 years, our “family for family” model has guided everything we do. We are a boutique agency, intentionally keeping our program small to provide personalized care. Transparency, compassion, and unwavering support are our promises. Our intended parents choose us because they feel seen, heard, and confident that every detail is handled with expertise and genuine care.
FAQs: How to Find a Surrogate
How can I find a surrogate?
You can find a surrogate by working with a full-service surrogacy agency like EDSI or getting a referral from your fertility clinic or reproductive attorney. For most first-time intended parents, agencies provide the safest and most supportive path.
Is it safe to find a surrogate outside of an agency?
Independent arrangements carry more risk. Working with an experienced surrogacy agency combined with trusted legal and medical teams offers the safest and most reliable protections.
How much does it cost to find a surrogate in the US?
Surrogacy costs in the US typically range from $150,000 to $250,000 in 2025. This includes surrogate compensation, agency fees, legal fees, insurance, and medical expenses related to IVF and pregnancy.
How long does it take to get a surrogate match?
Matching with a surrogate usually takes between 3 and 12 months at a dedicated agency like EDSI.
Discover how our Matching Compass™ can help you find the right surrogate faster.
Ready to Begin Your Surrogacy Journey?
We’re here to help you find the perfect surrogate. Get personalized guidance from our experienced team.
Schedule a Consultation with EDSI Today
About the Author
Parham Zar is the Managing Director of the Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI), a leading expert in third-party reproduction. With more than 20 years of experience guiding intended parents, surrogates, and donors, he is a trusted voice in modern family building. Learn more at eggdonorandsurrogacy.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to find a surrogate?
At EDSI, you can often match with a surrogate in as little as 2 to 6 weeks. Timelines vary depending on legal requirements, surrogate availability, and intended parent preferences.
Can I find a surrogate on my own?
Yes, independent matching is possible, but it comes with legal and medical risks. Working with an experienced agency like EDSI ensures you have proper legal contracts, medical screening, and ongoing support throughout the journey.
What should I look for in a surrogate?
Look for someone who is physically and emotionally healthy, has had previous uncomplicated pregnancies, and aligns with your values and preferences. EDSI’s Matching Compass™ helps personalize this process for you.
Is it possible to choose a surrogate based on location?
Yes. Many intended parents prefer surrogates in states like California due to favorable laws. EDSI allows you to prioritize surrogate location during your match process.
Do surrogates get paid?
Yes. Surrogates are compensated for their time, risk, and commitment. First-time surrogates in California with EDSI can earn over $110,000 in total compensation and benefits.
