These Are the Best States for IVF Coverage
No federal law requires health insurance to pick up the tab for IVF. This means states are left with the responsibility of writing their own mandates.
There is a Kafkaesque nature to infertility coverage. Some policies cover diagnosis but not all treatments; others cover treatment but may not cover storage, preservation, or certain medications. And that’s for those lucky enough to have any form of coverage.
No federal law requires health insurance to cover the costs of IVF, leaving states to create their own mandates. In 1985, Maryland became the first state to pass such a law after Joan Nietubicz, who struggled with infertility for years, launched a grassroots movement for the governor to sign one. Nietubicz’s efforts gave birth to the Act Concerning Insurance-In Vitro Fertilization. Roughly a year later, Nietubicz gave birth to a son after a successful IVF cycle in Norfolk. Since then, Maryland has expanded its mandate, now granting prospective parents coverage for up to three IVF cycles.
It’s been 40 years since Maryland’s historic decision. Yet, as infertility continues to rise, coverage for the diagnosis continues to lag. Currently, only 15 states require insurance to cover IVF. However, the laws don’t cover everything or everyone. Patients may still have out-of-pocket costs for storage and prescriptions, and most laws allow exemptions for religious companies and businesses with less than a certain number of employees.
With the cost of IVF ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 per patient, living in a state with strong IVF mandates could save you thousands. That’s not chump change—it’s a benefit that could make relocating worth it. Below, I’ve listed some of the best states for IVF coverage. For a full list of state-by-state coverage, along with details on limits and exemptions, visit RESOLVE.
California
Companies with 100 employees or more are required to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, including IVF. Coverage includes up to three oocyte retrievals with unlimited embryo transfers.
Colorado
Companies with 100 employees or more are required to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, including IVF. Coverage includes up to three oocyte retrievals with unlimited embryo transfers.
Illinois
Group insurers and HMOs have to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. Benefits cover up to four egg retrievals.
Washington, D.C.
Starting in 2025, all insurers offering individual, small, or large group plans must cover IVF treatment, including three oocyte retrieval cycles and unlimited transfers.
Maryland
Group and individual health policies that offer pregnancy benefits must also cover up to three cycles of IVF with a lifetime maximum cost of $100,000.
New Jersey
Group insurers, HMOs, and state and school health benefit programs offer up to four egg retrievals and unlimited transfers.
New York
Group policies for companies with 100 or more employees are required to offer up to three IVF cycles.
