Independent surrogacy is when intended parents and surrogates work together directly without an agency, managing matching, medical procedures, and legal details themselves. This comprehensive guide covers everything from finding the right match and navigating legal requirements to managing costs ($75,000-$130,000) and building successful relationships throughout your DIY surrogacy journey. Whether you're considering going independent to save on agency fees or want more personal control over the process, this guide provides practical guidance for successfully navigating private surrogacy arrangements.