California IVF Insurance Mandate (SB 729) FAQ

A: SB 729 is California’s new law requiring fully-insured employer health plans to include coverage for infertility diagnosis and treatment — including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and fertility preservation — starting in January 2026.

A: The law becomes effective January 1, 2026, for eligible large-group plans (those covering 101+ employees). Most plans will apply benefit changes when the plan is renewed or newly issued after that date.

Note: If your employer’s plan renews later in the year, coverage under California's IVF mandate may not begin until that renewal date.

A: The mandate applies to fully insured large-group employer plans regulated under California’s Department of Insurance of Managed Health Care. It does not apply to self-funded employer plans, small-group plans, individual market plans, Medi-Cal, dental/vision-only plans, or accident-only policies.

For eligible plans, California's IVF mandate requires coverage for:

• Infertility diagnosis and treatment.
• IVF, including up to three completed egg retrievals per person and unlimited embryo transfers, subject to clinical guidelines.
• Medically-necessary fertility preservation (e.g., sperm/egg freezing before cancer treatment).
• Related services including fertility medications, monitoring, lab work, and standard treatments.
• LGBTQ+ individuals, single individuals, and others unable to conceive due to non-medical reasons.

No. The law only applies to certain types of insurance plans, whether you are covered depends on:

• The type of insurance plan you have (large-group fully insured vs. self-funded, small-group, individual, etc.)
• When your plan renews or begins after January 1, 2026

If your employer’s plan is self-funded, small-group, a religious organization, or otherwise exempt, California's IVF mandate requirements do not apply. In that case, you may still pay out-of-pocket, or your employer may voluntarily choose to add IVF coverage. You can check with your HR department or insurer for details.

Contact your employer’s HR or benefits administrator to ask when your insurance plan renews and whether it is large-group fully insured.

Once renewed, ask your insurance company if they cover IVF and fertility preservation under California's IVF mandate.

Call the member services number on your insurance card and ask:
✔ “Will my plan cover infertility diagnosis and treatment under California's IVF mandate?”
✔ “Will my plan cover IVF, including egg retrievals and embryo transfers?”
✔ “Are fertility medications and monitoring visits included?”

A: If your plan is not covered under SB 729, consider talking to your current employer about adding benefits. RESOLVE also has information about financing options, grants and scholarships.

You can also visit RESOLVE’s resources for guidance on navigating alternative financial options:

• Coverage options and tips for working with your insurer
• Advocate for better coverage and policy updates
• Resources to help you talk to your employer about adding fertility benefits