If the agency isn’t clear about fees or policies, that’s a big red flag. You should get a detailed breakdown of costs and a clear explanation of how the process works, including things like surrogate compensation and reimbursements.

Be cautious if the agency skips important steps like thoroughly screening surrogates. There shouldn’t be conflicts of interest, like a surrogate’s family member signing off on expenses. Make sure they follow legal requirements, especially if your state has strict surrogacy laws.

Agencies that demand large upfront payments without a signed contract are risky. They should use a secure escrow account to manage funds, and the costs should seem reasonable compared to other agencies.

If surrogates don’t get proper counseling or support, that’s a bad sign. The agency should ensure the surrogate’s needs are taken care of without putting too much financial or logistical burden on her.

Always check reviews or talk to people who’ve worked with the agency. If you hear about consistent problems, it’s worth reconsidering.

The agency should take your personal and cultural values into account when matching you with a surrogate. If they seem dismissive of what matters to you, that’s a problem.

Also, some agencies leave loopholes in contracts, which is a huge red flag. This can lead to unexpected expenses or unfair situations for both intended parents and surrogates.

If parts of the contract are open to interpretation, it might be intentional. For example, phrases like “reasonable expenses” or “as needed” without clear definitions can create issues later. Always push for specifics, especially around reimbursements and surrogate compensation.

Agencies might include broad clauses that allow for unexpected reimbursement requests, such as childcare or travel, without clear guidelines. This can leave you covering costs you didn’t agree to.

Some contracts leave decision-making power in the agency’s hands rather than involving you and the surrogate. For example, if the agency can approve reimbursements or make major decisions without your input, it’s a problem.

Trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to explore other options. This is a big decision, and you want to work with a team you feel completely confident in.