Intended Parents

Does Insurance Cover IVF for Surrogacy? [FAQ]


KEY POINTS:

In vitro fertilization (IVF) for surrogacy is a significant investment.

While IVF for surrogacy can fulfill your dream of becoming a parent, it often requires thoughtful financial planning. Many intended parents look into insurance coverage as part of their budgeting strategy, hoping to offset some of the expenses involved.

In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most common questions about IVF and surrogacy insurance. You’ll learn what coverage is available, what factors impact eligibility and what financing options can help bridge any gaps. If you still have questions or need help navigating these costs, don’t hesitate to fill out our online form today.

Does Insurance Cover IVF?

Yes, insurance can cover IVF, but the specifics vary depending on your provider and where you live. Some policies offer comprehensive fertility benefits, while others only cover limited aspects, such as diagnostic testing or medications.

IVF insurance coverage can also vary from state to state. Some states mandate that insurance companies offer fertility coverage, while others leave it up to the employer or insurer. Make sure to research both state requirements and your individual plan to avoid surprises when budgeting for IVF for surrogacy.

How Much Is IVF With Insurance?

Even with insurance, IVF can still be expensive. The average cost for one cycle of IVF in the U.S. is around $21,600. You’ll likely still be responsible for some portion of that amount depending on your plan. Be sure to ask your provider for details about what your policy includes.

Does Insurance Cover Surrogacy?

Insurance can cover surrogacy-related healthcare, but it’s uncommon. Most insurance providers consider surrogacy an elective procedure rather than a medical necessity. IVF insurance policies may help with fertility treatments, but surrogacy coverage tends to be more limited.

Because the surrogate is the one carrying the pregnancy, she will have her own insurance policy. However, as the intended parent, you will be responsible for paying for her insurance as well as any expenses related to the pregnancy that aren’t covered. Supplemental surrogacy insurance is available, but the premiums and deductibles can be high.

What Is the Cost of Surrogacy for Couples With Insurance?

The total cost of surrogacy ranges from $80,000 to $300,000, even with insurance coverage. The final amount depends on factors like your surrogate’s compensation, legal fees and medical costs. These figures can feel daunting, but there are financing options that can help make the process more manageable.

What Factors Affect IVF and Surrogacy Insurance Coverage?

Several factors can influence whether IVF and surrogacy insurance will cover your journey. Here are three important considerations:

You can select certain types of fertility coverage when choosing your individual insurance policy. However, not all policies offer surrogacy benefits. Reviewing your options early on will help you make the best decision based on your family-building goals.

Some companies offer fertility benefits that reimburse employees for IVF or surrogacy costs. For example, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Lyft and Intel offer surrogacy benefits up to $40,000 for employees. Your human resources department can help you understand what benefits are available.

Laws around fertility coverage differ by state. For instance, Arkansas requires insurers to include IVF as part of maternity benefits, while Ohio only mandates IVF coverage if it is medically necessary. Currently, no state requires companies to cover surrogacy, but some insurers voluntarily offer coverage for parts of the process.

How Do I Get Insurance That Covers IVF and Surrogacy?

Navigating insurance coverage for IVF and surrogacy can feel overwhelming, but there are a few steps you can take to help you move forward with confidence:

Step 1: Research Insurance Policies

Start by reviewing your current health insurance policy, then explore options from other providers. Since coverage varies widely between companies, doing thorough research is crucial to understanding what’s available.

Step 2: Contact Insurance Providers

If your employer offers insurance, contact your HR department to ask about fertility benefits. You can also look into additional insurance options through your employer’s provider or purchase an individual policy from another insurer to fill any gaps.

Step 3: Work With an Experienced Surrogacy Agency

Surrogacy agencies can be invaluable resources. They’ll have experience navigating insurance requirements and can guide you through the process. This can ensure you’re budgeting effectively and accessing the best possible coverage for your journey.

What Other Financing Options Are Available?

Even if insurance doesn’t cover all the costs of IVF for surrogacy, there are other ways to finance your journey:

Personal loans can provide quick access to funds for fertility treatments or surrogacy. Many financial institutions offer loans specifically designed for medical or fertility-related expenses, making it easier to manage costs over time.

Some nonprofits and organizations offer grants to help intended parents cover the cost of IVF or surrogacy. Examples include the Baby Quest Foundation and the Tinina Q. Cade Foundation.

Some fertility clinics and agencies offer payment plans that let you spread out the cost of treatment over time. This option can make the process more affordable by breaking down expenses into manageable monthly payments.

There are also financial assistance programs designed to support families pursuing fertility treatments. For instance, Fertility Within Reach provides discounts on fertility medications.

Planning for the Future Starts Today

Surrogacy can be a beautiful path to parenthood, but it’s important to plan ahead for the financial aspects involved. Understanding how insurance covers IVF and surrogacy is a crucial part of this process. If you have questions or need more information about budgeting for IVF or surrogacy, reach out today. We’re here to help you navigate every step of the journey.

Male and Female couple smiling with surrogate mother
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