Paying for care
Medicaid, CHIP, Marketplace plans, Medicare, and what to do if you don't have insurance.
Cost shouldn't keep you from getting help. There are several ways to pay for mental health and substance use care. When you contact a provider, ask what they accept. Many can help you figure out coverage.
- Medicaid
- Free or low-cost coverage for people with low incomes, run by each state. Medicaid is the largest payer for mental health services in the U.S. Eligibility and covered services vary by state.
- CHIP
- The Children's Health Insurance Program covers kids and teens in families that earn too much for Medicaid. You can apply for Medicaid or CHIP any time of year.
- Marketplace plans
- All plans on HealthCare.gov and state marketplaces cover mental health and substance use treatment, and can't deny you or charge you more for a pre-existing condition.
- Private insurance & Medicare
- Most plans cover mental health and substance use care. Call the number on your card to ask about in-network providers and prior authorization.
- No insurance?
- Every state has an office for state-funded treatment programs, and many providers offer sliding-scale fees. SAMHSA's National Helpline can refer you to programs that fit.
- Veterans
- Veterans may be able to get care through the VA or community providers that accept VA / TRICARE.
Use the “Sliding scale,” “Free services,” and “State-funded treatment” filters to find lower-cost options near you.