There are many reasons why you may hesitate to seek treatment for a substance use disorder (SUD). You may fear ridicule or judgment or feel that you cannot effectively manage stress without substance. Although, one reason you should never have to avoid seeking addiction treatment is because you are worried about how much it will cost. 

There are certain costs associated with addiction treatment; however, this should not stand in the way of you getting the help you desperately need. There are options available, and it is possible to seek treatment without breaking the bank, even if you are of low income or do not have any health insurance. 

Where to Start 

Sometimes all it takes is the proper connections and resources to find an affordable option that works for you. Be sure to ask your primary care provider for advice regarding which treatment facilities will have payment plans that fit your needs. They may be able to point you towards a local facility that has special situations for those with low-income. Even if they do not have this information readily available, they will still be able to refer you to someone who does. 

You may also consider reaching out to those who have been through this process before. For example, if you are currently attending support group meetings — such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) — someone there may be able to recommend affordable local facilities. 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is an organization that provides federal grants to help those in need of receiving treatment. To find out whether or not you are eligible, simply visit the SAMHSA website. You can also easily apply by filling out a form online. It is important to note that because it will take time to process your application, it is recommended that you fill out the application at least six weeks before you intend to enter your treatment program. 

State-Funded Treatment Programs 

Some states and local governments provide financial aid for addiction treatment. They may also offer assistance to help those who went through treatment and are not ready to get back on their feet after struggling with SUD. Low-cost or even free sober living may also be available. 

A sober living facility is where you would go after the initial treatment phase when you might not be confident that you can live on your own without falling back into substance use. Here, you can begin to develop healthy habits and readjust to what a healthy, substance-free life is like. To find out if this is something you may qualify for, visit your state’s website. 

Veteran Assistance Benefits 

Substance misuse can often affect veterans. If you are a veteran and this is your current situation, consider reaching out to the U.S. Department of Federal Affairs. You may qualify for affordable or free inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, or a residential program. For a place to start, you may consider calling the VA hotline at 1(800) 827-1000. 

Financial Assistance Directly From the Treatment Center

Depending on what treatment center you are working with, some facilities offer financial aid or the ability to make installment payments over time, so you do not have to try to come up with the money all at once. Depending upon the plans available, you may be able to make these payments over months or even years. Since interest may or may not be involved, you will want to make sure that you read the fine print, ask the right questions, and fully understand what you are getting yourself into financially. 

Faith-Based Rehab Plans 

Some faith-based organizations offer financial help for those struggling with addiction. They may sponsor you, helping you through your treatment program without having to worry about paying it back. This sponsorship might not be enough to cover the full expense of the treatment, but it could lower the cost significantly. Look into the churches, religious figures, and local religious organizations and take the time to inquire about what sort of assistance they may offer. 

Reaching Out for a Loan 

If you feel that you have exhausted all options in finding affordable treatment, it may be time to ask a family member or friend for a loan. Remember that those close to you will want to help you live your best, healthiest, substance-free life. Helping you get sober is one of the most significant ways that they can help you achieve that goal. There are also fundraiser options like GoFundMe that may help you raise enough money for treatment on your own. 

There are many reasons why someone might be hesitant to seek treatment for a substance use disorder, but one thing they should never have to worry about is how they will pay for it. Luckily, there are various treatment options out there, from loans to grants and even complete financial assistance. Be sure to reach out to your doctor as they can help provide you in the right direction toward finding affordable treatment. There are state-funded treatment programs, federal grants, veteran assistance, and faith-based rehab plans. The facility that you’re involved with may even be able to work with you to establish a payment plan that meets your specific situation. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder, our team at The Kimberly Center can help. Don’t let fear of financial commitments get in the way. Call (855) 452-3683 today for resources.