Whether you had no idea this was a thing or heard murmurings about getting a free breast pump through insurance, I’m here to give you the low down and why it's worth checking out.

Most insurance companies will cover a breast pump.

The Affordable Care Act (2010) requires most health insurance plans to cover the cost of a breast pump as part of preventive health services. How much will vary from company to company and, unfortunately, so you aren’t entitled to diddly squat.

In true insurance company spirit, they often make it complicated and confusing through long forms, applications, and require a prescription from your doctor.

In an effort to make this easier, some organizations will help you pick out a pump then take care of all your insurance paperwork.

What’s the catch?

There really isn’t one. Essentially these companies are breast pump stores that recognize what a pain it is to deal with insurance so they submit your claim and are reimbursed by the insurance company instead of you.

Are there any drawbacks?

Not really. The only situation where I could see it being beneficial to submit the claim yourself is if your insurance will only cover a portion of your pump and you find an amazing deal somewhere. If the legwork of getting a prescription, buying the pump, and waiting for your reimbursement from insurance doesn't bother you (and you love a good sale) it might be worth going this route.

Who is the best company to deal with?

I’m a big fan of .

They are a U.S. based company so you’re talking to a real person (they have true breast pump pros – you won’t be talking to some creepy sales guy or someone overseas.)

They can help you narrow down your choices in a sea of confusing lingo (closed system, hands-free pumping, what now?) AND figure out what your insurance covers.

In an effort to make things easier, we set up this form so you don’t have to wade through a bunch of forms. I filled out all my information to test it and didn’t even think about the fact that it’s going to an actual person. Well, before I knew it, I get a call from the nicest woman named, Karen, to help me figure out what pump I qualify for. I apologized for wasting her time but, man, it was a great exercise to hear who would actually contact you.

It’s worth noting that some health insurance plans may also provide coverage for breast pump parts, counseling, belly bands, compression stockings, and postpartum support garments, and they can help you figure that out too.

I highly recommend them.

Want to see if you qualify for a free breast pump?

You’ll need your doctor’s phone number and your insurance ID number so they can nail down what you can get – eligibility can vary wildly even within the same insurance companies.