What is a sliding-scale fee, and how do I find one?
From the RecoveryHome team. We write some questions from situations people often ask us about, and answer them with general information from public health sources. Been through this yourself? Your answer could help the next person who finds this page. How we write team posts
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
asked 2 days ago
Many people without insurance hear that some programs charge based on income. How do sliding-scale fees work?
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
answered 2 days ago · general information, not medical advice
A sliding-scale fee is a price based on your income and household size, so people with lower incomes pay less, sometimes very little.
Where to find it:
- Community mental health centers and community health centers
- State- and county-funded treatment programs
- Many nonprofit treatment programs
How to search: use the "Sliding fee scale" payment filter in our directory, search FindTreatment.gov, or call SAMHSA's free helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
What to have ready: proof of income, such as pay stubs, a benefits letter, or a tax return, and your household size. If you have no income right now, say so.
If a program has a waiting list, get on it, keep calling back, and ask about interim support while you wait.
Read more: Medicaid and state-funded treatment
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