There are many ways for people (including non-residents and people without insurance!) to get free or low-cost abortions in California.

If you live in California and have private insurance, it’s most likely your insurance is required to pay for your abortion. It’s always best to call and confirm with your insurance provider as to what’s covered under your plan.

If you don’t have insurance, there are many ways to still get a free abortion in California via Medi-cal or the “Uncompensated Care program.”

The “Uncompensated Care program”

When the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade, California committed large amounts of government funding to help cover abortion care. This includes funding for abortion procedures and for practical support like transportation, lodging, and child care. Best yet, the funding is available to pregnant people who live in California and people traveling from out of state. The program includes undocumented immigrants and migrants.

The first step is to see if you qualify for the program based on your "household income." Use the chart below to learn if you’re eligible.

Income requirements for California's free abortion program

To access funding, you’ll need to book an appointment at a participating provider (list below). Different providers have different means of screening, but no matter the provider, you’ll need to let them know you need financial assistance when you schedule your appointment (this is generally a good first step if you need financial assistance no matter what).

Below is a list of California providers that have asked us to let you know they're participating in the program (it’s not comprehensive yet - to find all of your options, head to ineedana.com/search):

Medi-cal abortion coverage

The “Uncompensated Care Fund” is a limited-time program, but thankfully California has other permanent programs and policies that help with abortion costs. One way is to be emergency approved for Medi-Cal. You can call 1-800-433-2611 or find more information and apply here. Your clinic may also be able to screen you for Emergency Medi-Cal at the time of your appointment.

Abortion access on campus for California students

If you’re a student at a public university in California and have campus health insurance, your school’s health center is required by law to offer you abortion pills (medication abortion). Unfortunately, not all universities are making this information easily available. Talk to your campus clinic directly.

Additional support

If you need logistical support for an abortion, check out ACCESS Reproductive Justice. As California’s only state-wide abortion fund, they have funds from the state to help with transportation, lodging, and more. They also have a health line, legal information, and lots of helpful abortion resources on their site.

Individual clinics may also have their own funding and logistical support programs. If you’re worried about being able to afford your abortion or navigate getting there, it’s helpful to let them know.

What’s most important is to remember you’re not alone. There are abortion funds and support organizations ready to help you!

The I Need An A Team has received feedback from ACCESS RJ, abortion providers in this program, as well as other California state based organizations to create this article. If you know of a provider that should be added to this list or have feedback suggestions for this article, please email team@ineedana.com