First identify your treatment needs and the programs that can meet them.
Determine the programs’ costs. The most effective treatment is not necessarily the most expensive.
For each program, review all your options for covering costs, including insurance, employer assistance, state and local programs, and loans.
Call on services and benefit hotlines that can help you find programs that offer reduced fees or payment assistance.
For most people weighing their options for drug and alcohol treatment, cost is a factor. In the long run, paying more for an effective treatment that matches your needs and improves your quality of life is more important than saving money on a program that can’t provide lasting results.
When it can be done safely, outpatient treatment can be a great cost saver compared to inpatient rehab and may be equally or even more effective. If you do not have a safe home environment or are unable to attain recovery in outpatient treatment, the expense of inpatient rehab may be a worthwhile investment for your recovery.
Work with a health care professional to determine your treatment needs. Then search for quality programs and put together a list of addiction centers that offer the treatments you need.
Get detailed information specific to your circumstances
With your health care provider’s assessment, you can begin estimating the rehab costs of the programs on your list. Contact programs for detailed information based on your insurance coverage and financial situation. Ask:
When it comes to addiction treatment, more expensive programs aren’t always better than others. Sometimes alcohol or drug rehab programs provide luxury “extras” that have not been proven to effectively treat addiction or lead to recovery. This doesn’t mean you should search among only the “cheap rehab centers,” but you should focus on finding a program that provides evidence-based treatments that match your needs.
Rehab costs at each program will vary depending on the program’s location and services. Gather information on these costs and coverage offered by any of the following that apply to you:
If you have insurance or are covered by Medicare or Medicaid, review your policy carefully to determine if the rehab services you need are covered and if there are limitations. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) requires most group insurance plans and those on the Health Insurance Marketplace to offer benefits for treating substance use disorders. However, the specific treatments that are covered will depend on the state where you live and the type of plan you have.
Employer assistance programs
Ask if your employer offers an employee assistance program (EAP). An EAP is an employer-sponsored service to help employees (and sometimes their dependents) who are experiencing personal or family challenges. They usually pay for services related to mental health, alcohol or other substance use disorders, financial, and legal concerns. Check your employer’s benefit policies or contact a human resources staff member.
If you have limited personal funds or you do not have insurance, there may be programs available to you that help cover alcohol or drug rehab costs. To take advantage of these options, you may need to document your income, net worth, or credit history. Use these resources to find addiction centers that offer income-based fees, lower prices, or payment plans:
Treatment can be expensive. But there are options, programs, and resources available to help you afford the cost of your treatment. And remember, entering a rehab program is an investment in your health, happiness, future, and life.
Content reviewed by Dr. Jasleen Salwan, MD, MPH, FASAM, February 2023.