When pursuing an embryo adoption or donation program, many families are not aware that intentional planning and preparation must take place in regards to the costs associated with fertility treatments.
Let’s be frank: fertility treatments are expensive! Moreover, with the rise in costs due to inflation, they are not going to be getting lower any time soon. Preparing for the costs associated with the frozen embryo transfer preparation and procedure can help you better manage the financial aspect your embryo adoption or donation.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Research different fertility clinics: If you are working with a third-party embryo adoption or donation program, start by researching different fertility clinics. Some programs may have a list of clinics they will refer you to; others will allow you to use a clinic of your choosing. Compare their success rates, services offered, and, most importantly, their pricing structures. Look for clinics that are transparent about their fees and offer payment plans or financing options.
2. Understand your insurance coverage: Review your health insurance policy to understand what fertility treatments, if any, are covered. Contact your insurance provider directly to discuss your coverage for frozen embryo transfers and preparation medication. Understand the limits, requirements, and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.
Pro tip: You are asking your provider about coverage for a frozen embryo transfer and medications. You do not need to discuss the fact that you will be using donated embryos. Some carriers may deny you coverage if you did not have the embryos created during your own IVF cycles.
3. Schedule a consultation: Contact the fertility clinics you are interested in and schedule a consultation appointment. During this appointment, you can discuss your specific situation in regards to your embryo adoption or donation plan, receive an evaluation, and learn about the recommended next steps. Ask about the associated costs, including consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and FETs.
4. Create a budget: Once you have a clear understanding of the medical costs involved, create a budget to estimate your embryo adoption expenses. Along with the program fee and home study fee (if applicable), include clinic fees, medications, diagnostic tests, FETs, embryo storage, and any other related expenses. This will help you plan and save accordingly.
5. Save in advance: Start saving as early as possible. Consider creating a separate savings account dedicated to your embryo adoption expenses. Set up automatic transfers from your regular account to this savings account to ensure consistent savings.
6. Explore financing options: As we noted previously, fertility treatments can be expensive, so it is worth exploring financing options. Some clinics offer in-house financing plans or payment options that allow you to pay in installments. Additionally, you can research external financing options like fertility grants and scholarships from non-profit organizations. Some may even specifically cover medical fees for an embryo adoption or donation!
7. Explore tax deductions or credits: Inquire with a tax professional about potential tax deductions or credits related to fertility treatments. You will not be able to claim any deductions for your embryo adoption fees. But in some cases, you may be eligible to claim certain medical expenses associated with fertility treatment on your tax return.
8. Communicate with your partner: Discuss the financial implications of embryo adoption with your partner. Ensure that you both understand and agree on the budget and financial commitments involved. Open and honest communication will help you navigate the process together.
Remember, just like each embryo adoption or donation, each fertility clinic may have different fee structures and requirements, so it is important to consult with the specific clinic you plan to work with for your FETs. Being well prepared financially can help alleviate some of the stress associated with the process of embryo adoption and allow you to focus on the journey towards building your family!
To learn more about embryo adoption and donation, visit EmbryoAdoption.org.
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