Compensation for egg and sperm donors in the UK

Following guidance from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), sperm donors can receive £45 compensation per clinic visit, while egg donors can receive £985 compensation per donation cycle.

It is illegal in the UK to pay someone for their eggs or sperm. However, donor compensation was introduced in 2011 to help reimburse donors for reasonable expenses incurred throughout the donation process, including travel, childcare and loss of earnings.

The compensation rates increased on 1 October 2024 in response to inflation, as the previous rates no longer reflected the intended purpose of compensation.

The HFEA introduced the updated rates to help make altruistic donation more accessible, taking into account the costs donors may incur when travelling to and from their chosen clinic and participating in the donation process.

If you’re an active donor or considering becoming a donor and would like further guidance on the compensation available, please get in touch.