How to Get a Free Breast Pump Through Insurance
The ACA covers a breast pump — here’s exactly how to claim yours, when, and how to upgrade.
By Marcus Hale · Senior gear writer & testing lead
Fact-checked by Dana Reyes (CPST-certified car seat & safety editor)
Updated June 11, 2026
One of the best-kept money-savers in new parenthood: under U.S. law, your insurance almost certainly owes you a breast pump at no cost. Yet the process confuses many parents, so pumps go unclaimed. This guide walks through exactly how to get yours free, when to order, and how to upgrade to a wearable if you want one — aligned with HealthCare.gov guidance.
Why your pump is likely free
The Affordable Care Act requires most health plans to cover breastfeeding support and supplies — including a breast pump — as preventive care, generally with no out-of-pocket cost. "Covered" can mean a rental or a pump you keep, and plans differ on the exact model and brands. The key point: you probably do not need to buy one at retail.
Step 1 — call your insurer (or pick a DME supplier)
Start by calling the member services number on your insurance card and asking: "How do I get my covered breast pump, which models qualify, and when can I order?" Alternatively — and often easier — use an in-network durable medical equipment (DME) supplier such as Aeroflow, Edgepark, or Byram Healthcare. You enter your insurance details on their site, and they verify coverage, handle paperwork, and ship the pump.
Step 2 — get a prescription if required
Some plans require a prescription for the pump. Your OB, midwife, or pediatrician can provide one quickly — DME suppliers will tell you if it’s needed and often request it from your provider for you. Keep your provider’s office info handy to speed this up.
Step 3 — order at the right time
Many plans allow ordering in the third trimester (commonly around 30 weeks); others only after birth. Order as early as your plan permits so the pump arrives before your due date. If you’ll need to pump right away — for example, a premature baby in the NICU — ask about a hospital-grade rental, which is often covered in those circumstances.
Upgrading to a wearable or premium pump
If you want a hands-free wearable (Elvie, Momcozy) or a higher-end model, many plans cover a standard electric pump fully and let you pay the difference. When you order through a DME supplier, it typically shows your no-cost options plus any upgrade fee, so you can decide. Compare on suction strength, comfort, portability, and noise — see our breast pump rankings.
Replacement parts and ongoing supplies
Coverage often extends to replacement parts (flanges, valves, tubing) and sometimes breastfeeding supplies — worn parts reduce suction, so refresh them periodically. Ask your insurer or DME supplier what resupply you’re entitled to; many parents don’t realize this is covered too.
The bottom line
Most parents can get a breast pump free through insurance: call your insurer or use a DME supplier (Aeroflow, Edgepark, Byram), submit a prescription if asked, and order in the third trimester. You can usually upgrade to a wearable for a fee, and replacement parts may be covered too. Verify your plan’s specifics — but don’t pay retail before you check.
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Frequently asked questions
Does insurance really cover a breast pump for free?
Under the Affordable Care Act, most health plans must cover the cost of a breast pump (rental or purchase) as preventive care, typically at no out-of-pocket cost. The exact pump type (standard electric, manual, sometimes wearable with an upgrade fee), brand options, and timing depend on your specific plan — call your insurer to confirm.
How do I order my free breast pump?
Two common routes: (1) Call the member services number on your insurance card and ask how to get your covered pump. (2) Use an in-network durable medical equipment (DME) supplier — companies like Aeroflow, Edgepark, or Byram handle the insurance paperwork and ship to you. You may need a prescription from your OB or midwife.
When can I order it?
Many plans let you order in the third trimester (often around 30 weeks), and some only after birth — it varies. Order as early as your plan allows so it arrives before baby. If you need to pump immediately after birth (e.g., for a NICU stay), ask about a hospital-grade rental.
Can I get a wearable pump through insurance?
Sometimes. Many plans cover a standard electric pump fully and let you pay an upgrade fee toward a wearable (like an Elvie or Momcozy) or a higher-end model. DME suppliers show your covered options and any upgrade cost when you enter your insurance details.
What if I have Medicaid?
Medicaid covers breast pumps in most states, though the type and process vary by state. Contact your state Medicaid office or managed-care plan, or work with a DME supplier that accepts Medicaid, to find out what you qualify for.
References
- 1.Breastfeeding benefits — Health coverage rights — HealthCare.gov
- 2.Breastfeeding: Insurance Coverage — U.S. Office on Women’s Health
