Is compensated surrogacy legal in Washington?
Yes. Washington once restricted compensated surrogacy, but updated its Uniform Parentage Act to explicitly authorize and regulate compensated gestational surrogacy agreements.
Are pre-birth parentage orders available?
Yes. Washington allows pre-birth orders confirming the intended parents as legal parents.
What the law requires
Written agreement
A surrogacy contract meeting statutory requirements, executed before medical procedures begin.
Independent legal counsel
Separate attorneys for the surrogate and intended parents.
Medical evaluation
A medical evaluation confirming readiness for the embryo transfer process.
Mental health consultation
Psychological screening as part of the standard process.
"Washington's updated law reflects a broader trend — jurisdictions moving from restrictive surrogacy rules toward explicit, modern statutory protection."
What this means for you as a surrogate
Washington offers strong, modern legal protections for surrogates. As always, your independent attorney will confirm the details specific to your agreement.