Protecting Families in Surrogacy: Why Ethical Practices and Independent Escrow Matter More Than Ever

The surrogacy community has been shaken by a recent incident involving an agency that used an in-house escrow system. When that system reportedly failed, families suddenly lost access to funds they had already invested into their surrogacy journey. While details are still emerging, the impact is undeniable: surrogates and intended parents were left financially and emotionally vulnerable in one of the most meaningful chapters of their lives.

These kinds of failures are rare—but they are preventable. And they highlight a critical truth: Ethical surrogacy is impossible without financial transparency and proper safeguards.

At OVS Care, we believe deeply in protecting families. That’s why we’ve built our systems with independent oversight, strict ethical standards, and industry-recognized partners who ensure every dollar is managed responsibly and securely.

Protecting Finances through transparency.

Ethics Are the Foundation of Safe Surrogacy

Families entering surrogacy place enormous trust in their agency. Surrogates dedicate their bodies, time, and emotional labor to help others build a family. Intended parents invest financially, physically, and emotionally.

When an agency controls the money itself—rather than using a third-party escrow provider—that trust can become fragile. Ethical surrogacy requires clear boundaries, transparent financial systems, and independent oversight.

To reinforce those protections, our agency aligns with the SEEDS Ethics Organization, which sets standards for professional conduct, transparency, and accountability. We believe these standards should be universal—not optional.

It’s important to note: SEEDS Ethics and SeedTrust Escrow share similar names but are completely separate organizations. SEEDS focuses on ethics. SeedTrust Escrow specializes in escrow management. Both are aligned in their commitment to protecting families.

Why OVS Care Uses SeedTrust Escrow

The recent industry incident illustrates why protecting families in surrogacy is a top priority In-house escrow systems are risky and. When agency-controlled accounts fail or are mismanaged, families have no safety net.

To prevent this, OVS Care partners with SeedTrust Escrow, an independent, licensed, surrogacy-specialized escrow provider. SeedTrust Escrow ensures:

• Funds remain secure and separately managed

• Advanced tracking and reporting

• Full compliance with state regulations

• 24/7 accessibility for intended parents

• Protection regardless of agency transitions

Most importantly, we never hold client money directly. This separation protects surrogates and intended parents from financial vulnerability and maintains the integrity of the entire journey.

Protecting Families in Surrogacy on Both Sides: Separate Representation for GCs and IPs

Surrogates and intended parents have different needs, challenges, and legal rights. When one entity represents both without clear structure, people can feel unheard, unsupported, or unprotected.

At OVS Care, we maintain distinct communication lanes, legal support pathways, and advocacy roles for GCs and IPs. This model:

• Keeps each party’s voice protected

• Reduces conflict of interest

• Clarifies expectations and accountability

• Ensures fairness and trust throughout the journey

Families deserve a process that is equitable, safe, and transparent from every angle.

Questions Every Intended Parent and Surrogate Should Ask

Whether you're considering surrogacy for the first time or are already moving forward, taking time to ask critical questions can prevent financial and emotional stress later.

Here are essential questions to guide your decision-making:

1. Who manages the escrow account?

It should always be a licensed third-party—not the agency.

2. Is the escrow company experienced in surrogacy?

Surrogacy has unique timing requirements and legal complexities.

3. How are funds protected?

Ask about insurance, bonding, regulatory compliance, and access to account statements.

4. What happens if the agency closes or changes ownership?

Your funds should remain secure and accessible regardless of agency status.

5. Are the payment schedules clearly explained and legally reviewed?

Both GCs and IPs should have contracts that specify timelines, triggers, and responsibilities.

6. Is the agency aligned with an ethics organization like SEEDS?

Affiliation demonstrates commitment to safety, compliance, and high standards.

7. How are disputes handled?

Understanding the process now prevents confusion later.

A Community Moving Forward With Integrity

Despite this recent incident, it’s important to remember that many surrogacy agencies operate with exceptional integrity and care. The failure of one internal system should not define the entire field—but it should motivate all of us to raise the standard.

Families deserve an agency that:

• Protects their emotional and financial wellbeing

• Uses independent escrow services

• Follows recognized ethical guidelines

• Maintains clear boundaries between GC and IP advocacy

• Communicates openly and proactively

At OVS Care, our compass is simple: Transparency. Safety. Accountability. Compassion.

Surrogacy is a profound, life-changing experience. By asking the right questions and working with partners who prioritize integrity, families can move forward with confidence—knowing their dreams are supported by systems built to protect them.

If You Have Questions, We’re Here to Help

If you're unsure how escrow works, want to understand your rights, or need guidance in choosing an ethical surrogacy agency, our team is here to offer clarity, education, and support.

Your family deserves a safe, ethical, and transparent path forward. And we’re committed to helping you walk it with confidence.