Introduction
Are you looking for a lucrative side hustle that could potentially make you $200,000 or more? Surrogacy is quickly becoming one of the most profitable side hustles, and it’s not just for those in the spotlight like celebrities—everyday women are also making significant incomes by helping others build their families.
In this article, we’ll explore how Sunshine Hanson, a former teacher, earned over $200,000 with this oppporunity as a side hustle, and how you might be able to do the same if you meet the criteria.
What is Surrogacy and How Does it Work?
Surrogacy is an arrangement where a biological female carries a child for someone who cannot conceive themselves. This process involves implanting a fertilized egg into the surrogate mother’s uterus. Once the baby is born, the surrogate relinquishes the child to the intended parents.
It’s a generous and rewarding experience, but it’s also a big commitment. If you’re healthy and meet the qualifications, this could be a life-changing side hustle.
The Surrogacy Side Hustle: Requirements and How to Qualify
It isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a healthy, compassionate woman with a strong support system, it might be for you. Here’s what’s generally required:
Requirements:
- Be a healthy biological female aged 21-40.
- Must have given birth previously with a complicated-free pregnancy.
- BMI between 18 and 34.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Have reliable transportation and no felony record in the household.
- No history of mental illness, drug use, or cancer.
These requirements ensure that surrogates are physically and emotionally prepared for the responsibility, and that the arrangement goes smoothly for all parties involved.
How Much Can You Earn as a Surrogate?
Surrogacy offers a lucrative paycheck, with base pay typically ranging from $40,000 to $75,000 per pregnancy. However, Sunshine Hanson made more than $200,000 with three surrogate pregnancies.
What Determines Surrogacy Pay?
- Base Pay: $40,000–$75,000 is typical.
- Expenses Paid by Parents: This includes health insurance, maternity clothing, and lost wages.
- Extra Gifts: In some cases, surrogates may receive additional gifts (Hanson received a $3,500 gift from her intended parents).
Hanson’s base pay for her three pregnancies was $183,000, and with added reimbursements, she earned significantly more. While pay can vary, the financial rewards can be considerable.
Pros and Cons
Surrogacy offers several benefits but also comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s a quick breakdown:
The Pros :
- Generous Compensation: Surrogates can earn substantial income, sometimes upwards of $75,000 per pregnancy.
- Personal Fulfillment: Helping families who can’t conceive is an incredibly rewarding experience.
- Flexible: It’s a side hustle that doesn’t require you to quit your full-time job—although it does require significant time for medical appointments, procedures, and recovery after delivery.
The Cons :
- Physical Demands: Pregnancy, especially through IVF, can be uncomfortable and requires medical attention.
- Emotional Toll: The surrogate must relinquish the child after birth, which can be emotionally challenging.
- Legal and Contractual Complexity: Surrogacy agreements are legally binding and often involve a lot of paperwork and legal expenses.
How to Find Surrogacy Opportunities
Finding surrogacy opportunities is relatively simple, but you’ll want to choose an agency that suits your needs. Here are a few well-known agencies:
Top Surrogacy Agencies:
- ConceiveAbilities: A highly reputable agency with transparency in its process and pay rates. They also offer a pay calculator to estimate potential earnings.
- Pinnacle Surrogacy: Known for connecting surrogates with intended parents worldwide, offering competitive pay ranging from $50,000 to $60,000 for first-time surrogates.
- Surrogacy.is: An advocacy service run by Sunshine Hanson herself, helping match surrogates with agencies.
Each agency has different requirements and pay scales, so it’s important to do your research and pick the one that best fits your goals.
What’s the Surrogacy Process Like?
The process can seem overwhelming, but most agencies will guide you through every step. Here’s an overview:
Step-by-Step Surrogacy Process:
- Application and Screening: Submit an application and undergo medical and psychological screening to ensure you’re a good fit.
- Matching: Once approved, the agency will match you with intended parents who are a good fit for you.
- Contract Negotiation: This is where the legal and financial terms are finalized.
- Pregnancy: Once you become pregnant, the intended parents will take care of all medical costs, and you’ll regularly visit doctors.
- Delivery and Postpartum: After birth, you’ll hand over the child to the intended parents and receive the agreed-upon compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I do surrogacy as a side hustle without quitting my day job?
Yes! Many surrogates maintain their full-time jobs and manage their surrogacy commitments around their work schedule. However, expect medical appointments to occasionally interfere with your workday.
Q2: What happens if I miscarry during surrogacy?
In most cases, payments stop at miscarriage, but you keep any payments made up to that point. You may be asked to try again in some situations, with updated agreements.
Q3: How do I know if I’m physically and emotionally ready for surrogacy?
It’s essential to evaluate your health and your emotional readiness. Make sure you have a strong support system and are mentally prepared to carry someone else’s child.
Conclusion: Is Surrogacy the Right Side Hustle for You?
Surrogacy can be a highly rewarding and lucrative side hustle for those who meet the requirements. As Sunshine Hanson proves, it can bring in a substantial income while offering personal fulfillment. However, it’s important to understand the emotional, physical, and legal commitments involved.
If you think surrogacy might be the right path for you, do your research, find a reputable agency, and make sure you’re mentally and physically prepared for the journey ahead.
