Finding and Paying for Vaccines

Where to Get Vaccines

Vaccines may be available at private doctor offices, pharmacies, workplaces, community health clinics, health departments or other community locations such as schools and religious centers.

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other regular source of health care about vaccines recommended for you and your family.

Federally funded health centers can provide services if you don’t have a regular source of health care. Locate one near you.

You can also contact your state health department to learn more about where to get vaccines in your community.

If you're traveling internationally, CDC encourages you to make sure you are up-to-date with all routine vaccinations as well as vaccines recommended based on health risks in the areas you will be visiting.  Go to the CDC travel website for recommended vaccines and a list of travel medicine clinics.

How to Pay for Vaccines

Most private health insurance plans cover the cost of recommended vaccines. Check with your insurance provider for details of coverage.

If you do not currently have health insurance, the Affordable Care Act is making immunization and other preventive health services more affordable and accessible for all Americans. For more information about finding health insurance or the Affordable Care Act, visit www.HealthCare.gov.

Vaccine manufacturers also have vaccine assistance programs that can help you pay for vaccines if you don’t have health insurance. Contact the manufacturer directly to learn more.

Adults Aged 19-26

Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans that cover children now allow parents to add or keep children on the health insurance policy until they turn 26 years old. For more information, visit Young Adults and the Affordable Care Act.

Military

If you serve in the military or are a military dependent eligible for TRICARE, vaccines are covered according to the CDC recommended schedule.

Medicare

If you are 65 years or older and a Medicare beneficiary, Medicare part B will pay for influenza (flu) and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines, for hepatitis B vaccines for persons at increased risk of hepatitis. Those with Medicare Part C or D may also have coverage for additional vaccines like zoster (shingles), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and Tdap (tetatnus, diphtheria, and acelluar pertussis). To learn more about the vaccines Medicare covers, visit www.Medicare.gov and also check with your specific Medicare part C and D health plans.

Medicaid

If you are eligible for Medicaid, contact your State Medicaid Agency to find out which adult immunizations are covered under your program.

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