Cord Blood Banking Costs
Because private storage facilities are commercial in nature - the costs can vary significantly depending on who you decide to deal with.
Private cord banking usually involves both an initial 'setup/processing' fee, as well as an annual charge for the duration of the storage.
The initial processing fee includes the kit, processing, and usually at least the first year of storage included in the price. Costs can vary greatly, ranging from $750-$2000 depending on the company chosen.
Annual storage costs can again vary to some degree depending on the blood bank you're dealing with, but tend to average approximately $100 a year. Many private cord blood banks will offer pre-payment incentives (discounts) that will lower the total cost for those paying for advance storage.
Assuming a median processing fee and storage for 20 years:
| Service: | Cost: | Totals: |
| Initial Processing Fee: | $1200 | $1200 |
| Annual Storage Cost: | $100 | $2000 |
| Pre-Pay Discount: | -10% | -$200 |
| Total Cost For 20 Years: | $3000 |
Again, this is just an average cost based on sample data - individual cord banks can set their prices as they wish.
Public Banking/Donation Costs
There are generally no direct costs to the donor family when the cord blood is being donated to a public bank. The collection kit is supplied at no charge, including the necessary shipping costs for transport to the receiving facility.
That said, the attending physician/midwife at the delivery is under no obligation to offer their additional services (required for the collection) at no cost - though most are willing to do so as a courtesy. Check with your delivery team beforehand and let them know your plans so you can clarify whether there will be additional costs.
