How much can you get paid for donating breast milk?

The Financial Aspects of Breast Milk Donation
Breast milk donation is a noble act that not only supports infants in need but can also provide financial compensation for the donors. However, the amount you can earn varies significantly depending on the organization you choose to donate to.
Compensation Rates
Currently, the most notable organization that compensates breast milk donors is the Mothers Milk Cooperative, which is the only milk bank in the United States that pays women for their donations. According to reports, donors can earn around $1.20 per ounce of breast milk donated through this cooperative. This rate reflects the effort and time involved in the donation process, which includes pumping and storing the milk.
Other milk banks, such as Tiny Treasures Milk Bank and Helping Hands Milk Bank, also offer compensation at a rate of $1 per ounce. This compensation is intended to acknowledge the commitment of donors while also ensuring that the milk is available for vulnerable infants, particularly those who are premature or have health issues.
Non-Profit vs. For-Profit Organizations
It’s important to note that many milk banks operate as non-profit organizations and do not provide any financial compensation for donations. For instance, HMBANA-accredited milk banks typically rely on voluntary donations and do not pay donors. This distinction is crucial for potential donors to understand, as it influences both the financial and emotional aspects of the donation process.
Tax Considerations
While donors can receive compensation, it’s worth mentioning that this income is generally taxable. Additionally, donors cannot claim a tax deduction for the breast milk itself, as human body materials are not eligible for such deductions. However, expenses related to pumping and storing the milk may be deductible as medical expenses.
Conclusion
In summary, if you’re considering donating breast milk and are interested in compensation, your best options are organizations like the Mothers Milk Cooperative, Tiny Treasures, and Helping Hands Milk Bank, where you can earn between $1 to $1.20 per ounce. However, many non-profit milk banks rely solely on voluntary donations, emphasizing the altruistic nature of this important contribution to infant health.

Is donating breast milk a tax write-off?

Is my donation tax-deductible? The IRS does not allow a deduction for any kind of human tissue. You can deduct the cost of your breast pump and bags if you purchased them yourself.

Do hospitals pay for donor milk?

This fee is paid for by the hospital, not the family, and covers the cost of screening, processing, bottling, testing, labeling, tracking, and overnight shipment of the frozen pasteurized milk. The milk itself is not sold.

What disqualifies you from donating breast milk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

Do breast milk donors get paid?

We compensate our donors
HDM Plus™ currently pays $1.00 per ounce of breast milk supplied by qualified donors. All donors must pass a strict testing and screening process to ensure the highest levels of safety for our infant recipients.

Is it legal to sell breast milk in the US?

Can I Sell My Breast Milk? Although the practice is not regulated, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Food and Drug Administration recommend donating your breast milk to a HMBANA milk bank.

Is any amount of breast milk worth it?

Breastfeeding has long-term benefits for your baby, lasting right into adulthood. Any amount of breast milk has a positive effect. The longer you breastfeed, the longer the protection lasts and the greater the benefits.

How much does 1oz of breastmilk cost?

The average cost is $3-$5 per ounce, and babies can consume between 32 and 48 ounces of milk per day. In states where neither Medicaid nor commercial insurance covers donor milk, families sometimes buy unregulated breast milk online or receive donated milk from friends or family because it can be less expensive.

Do you get paid for donating breast milk?

Commercial milk banks cover testing and shipping costs too, and some pay or donate money on your behalf. For example, Tiny Treasures Milk Bank compensates milk donors with $1 per ounce of breastmilk and Helping Hands Milk Bank contributes $1 per ounce of donated milk to the Susan G. Komen foundation.

Can I get paid for donating breast milk?

HDM Plus™ currently pays $1.00 per ounce of breast milk supplied by qualified donors. All donors must pass a strict testing and screening process to ensure the highest levels of safety for our infant recipients.

Who should not donate milk?

You should never donate breast milk if any of the following applies: You have ever tested positive for HTLV, Hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. You have not been tested yet but think you might have HTLV, Hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. You are HIV positive.