Family planning can be costly, as most insurance plans do not cover fertility treatments. Here’s where to explore financing alternatives.

Many people grow up believing getting pregnant is straightforward; for some, it is. Yet, for 25% of individuals, the journey to starting a family is not as simple, leading to the need for fertility treatments that can be quite expensive.

Currently, less than half of U.S. states mandate fertility insurance benefits. Even with coverage, it often comes with exclusions or conditions that not all patients can meet, not to mention that benefits may run out quickly, leaving individuals to tackle the financial burden of fertility treatments.

It's frustrating, and the expenses for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) can add up. Most people don't consider fertility treatment benefits when reviewing employer insurance options, something I overlooked myself.

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So, where can we turn when financing options feel limited? Here are some suggestions.

Insurance Coverage for Diagnostic Tests: While your medical insurance might not cover extensive fertility treatments, diagnostic tests often are covered. This includes assessments like Ovarian Reserve Assessment, Hysterosalpingogram, and Hysteroscopy. Confirm with your clinic that they code bills as diagnostic.

IVF Grants & Interest-Free Loans: Numerous charitable grants and scholarships exist, along with no-interest loans. Consider these options:

  • Worth The Wait Charity – Grants for fertility and adoption for cancer survivors.
  • Fertility IQ – Provides grants randomly a few times a year for reviewing your doctor or clinic.
  • Cade Foundation – Offers grants periodically for infertility or adoption.
  • JFLA – Patients in Los Angeles can secure an interest-free loan through the Feit Family program.

Medication Price Reductions: Prices for medications can vary significantly. You’re not obligated to use the pharmacy your clinic suggests if you find a cheaper option. For savings, RescriptedRX can help you find and deliver affordable fertility medications.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA): You can utilize FSA funds for some fertility treatments, like egg and embryo storage, but only if it’s “temporary” and “for immediate use.” Note that a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) is required, and HSA funds can also be applied here.

Medical Tax Deductions: Many fertility treatments and medications qualify as medical expenses under section 118.2 of the Income Tax Act, allowing you to claim these costs on your tax return.

Open Enrollment or Part-Time Work: If your employer doesn’t cover fertility treatments, explore obtaining secondary insurance during the open enrollment period, typically from November to year-end. Additionally, consider part-time jobs with companies that offer coverage; many only require part-time employment for eligibility.

Egg/Sperm/Embryo Storage: If your clinic doesn’t offer it, inquire about paying storage fees monthly rather than annually. This way, you can stop payments once you use or discard what you’ve stored. If annual payment is required, ask if you can receive a prorated reimbursement after usage.

And perhaps the most crucial financial advice: ASK

It's essential to inquire with your clinic about cost-saving measures and potential payment plans. Some questions to consider:

  • Do you have scholarships, payment plans, or packages available? (Many clinics do!)
  • Can I opt for per-visit payments or monthly/quarterly options?
  • If a large upfront payment is required, can we negotiate?

If you have a creative payment plan idea, ASK.

Discussing insurance coverage with your employer can also prove beneficial. Some employers may not realize how costly treatments are or that their plans lack coverage. Resources on resolve.org can help guide these discussions. Self-advocacy throughout your fertility journey is crucial.

Lastly, while it might be controversial – especially when many urge you to save, save, save – my experience has taught me that money can be replenished, while embryos cannot. Taking out a low or no-interest credit card to access what you need now can prevent future regrets. Fertility treatments are a miracle, and so is building a family. I pursued loans and every option available to fund multiple treatment rounds. It was tough, and we're still repaying it, but I've never regretted it.