Update (May 2025): Implementation of California Senate Bill 729 (SB 729) has been delayed. The law will now take effect on January 1, 2026, instead of July 1, 2025. California residents with insurance plans can expect expanded fertility coverage—including IVF—to begin in 2026. We will continue to provide updates and support as the new effective date approaches.
Expanded insurance coverage for IVF and fertility treatment starts in 2026
A big step forward is coming for hopeful parents in California. Beginning January 1, 2026, California Senate Bill 729 (SB 729) requires most small and large-group insurance plans to cover infertility diagnosis and treatment—including IVF (in vitro fertilization). This legislation marks meaningful progress toward expanding access to comprehensive fertility care.
At RSC, we’re excited to help patients navigate these new fertility insurance benefits and allow more individuals and couples to take the next step in their parenthood journey.
Should I wait until 2026 to start fertility treatment?
While expanded insurance coverage is coming, age remains one of the most important factors in fertility and delaying care could impact your options. We encourage patients to schedule a consultation now to better understand their fertility potential through testing. From there, we can help you build a personalized treatment strategy that aligns with your timeline, goals, and future insurance benefits.
What is SB 729?
SB 729 is a new law passed in California that makes fertility treatment more accessible by requiring certain insurance plans to cover infertility services, including IVF.
Here’s what will be included under the new law for fully insured plans:
- Infertility diagnosis and treatment, including IVF
- Up to 3 completed egg retrievals
- Unlimited embryo transfers, based on clinical guidelines
SB 729 also broadens the definition of infertility to be more inclusive—supporting access for LGBTQIA+ individuals, single parents, and others who haven’t traditionally qualified under older definitions of infertility.
What does this mean for RSC patients?
“This legislation is an important milestone in expanding access to fertility care across California,” says Dr. Deborah Wachs, board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at RSC. “We’re proud to offer patients exceptional clinical care grounded in science, and we look forward to helping even more people grow their families through this expanded coverage.”
RSC offers a full range of services to meet your needs, including:
- IVF and IUI
- Fertility testing and diagnostics
- LGBTQIA+ family-building
- Egg, sperm, and embryo freezing
- Egg and sperm donation
- Embryo screening and genetic testing
- Gestational carrier services
What if you’re not covered by SB 729?
Not everyone will immediately benefit from the new law—some smaller plans and out-of-state employers may not be affected. Our financial educators are well-versed in the different insurance plans, and can help determine if you have coverage. And if not, RSC offers several financial programs to help ease the cost of fertility treatment:
- IVF refund programs through Fertility Access
- 100% IVF Refund – Includes 3 retrievals + unlimited frozen embryo transfers. If you don’t take home a baby, you get a full refund.
- 50% IVF Refund – Includes 2 retrievals + unlimited frozen embryo transfers, with a 50% refund if no live birth.
- Multi-cycle discounts
- Reduced pricing when you purchase a 2- or 3-cycle IVF plan.
- Income-based discounts
- Giving Hope Program – 15% off for uninsured patients who meet income guidelines.
- Fertility medication savings
- EMD Serono Compassionate Care – 10%–50% off based on income
- EMD Serono Compassionate Corps – Free meds for veterans and their spouses
- ReUnite Rx – Discounts for veterans, cancer patients, and others
Ready to move forward?
Expanded insurance benefits are on the way—and our team is here to help you make the most of them. Whether you’re just beginning or already planning treatment, we invite you to connect with one of our specialists to learn more about your options.
