California SB 729: What Patients Need to Know About Fertility Insurance Coverage

Reading Time: 3 minutes

SB 729

Key Takeaways:
  • SB 729 expands fertility insurance coverage in California starting January 1, 2026.
  • Large employer health plans (101+ employees) must cover infertility diagnosis and treatment, IVF, and fertility preservation (when medically necessary).
  • LGBTQ+ individuals and couples gain equal access to fertility benefits, with an updated definition of infertility.
  • Coverage rollout depends on your employer’s plan renewal date; CalPERS employees will see benefits in 2027.
  • Not all employers are required to comply (religious, self-funded, and small-group plans are excluded).
  • Patients should plan ahead now by speaking with their insurance provider, HR team, and fertility specialist.

California SB 729 is an important step toward expanding access to fertility care — but it’s also creating a lot of questions and confusion for patients. While the law does increase insurance coverage for fertility treatment, including IVF, it does not apply to everyone or every plan.

Here’s what patients should know as they plan ahead.

What is Senate Bill 729?

SB 729 is a California law that requires certain health insurance plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, which may include in vitro fertilization (IVF).

The goal of the law is to reduce barriers to fertility care. However, SB 729 does not create universal coverage, and benefits vary widely depending on your insurance plan.

What services will be covered under SB 729?

Large, fully insured employer health plans with 101 or more employees must provide coverage for:
  • Infertility diagnosis and treatment
  • Up to three egg retrievals
  • An unlimited number of embryo transfers (following ASRM single embryo transfer guidelines)

Smaller employer plans, religious organizations, and self-funded groups are not required to follow this mandate. As insurers roll out these new benefits, more clarity is expected.

When does coverage begin?

Coverage starts on January 1, 2026, but the timing depends on when your employer’s plan renews:
  • Plans renewing on January 1 may begin coverage immediately.
  • Plans renewing later in 2026 will add benefits at renewal.
  • State employees (CalPERS) will see coverage on January 1, 2027.

Originally planned for July 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom requested a delay to ensure smooth implementation.

Should I wait for insurance coverage before starting treatment?

Fertility is highly time-sensitive. While waiting could reduce costs, delaying may impact your chances of success due to age or diagnosis.

We recommend discussing your timeline with a fertility specialist to determine whether waiting for coverage or starting now is best for you.

How does SB 729 support LGBTQ+ individuals and couples?

SB 729 expands the definition of infertility to include those unable to conceive for medical or nonmedical reasons.

This change ensures equal access for LGBTQ+ individuals, same-sex couples, and single patients without requiring proof of “medical infertility.”

Does SB 729 cover fertility preservation?
  • Yes: Fertility preservation when medically necessary (e.g., before cancer treatments like chemotherapy).
  • No: Elective or nonmedical fertility preservation (e.g., egg freezing to delay parenthood).

What’s still uncertain?

Because SB 729 is in the early stages of rollout, some details remain unclear:
  • Will insurance require patients to attempt transfers after each retrieval?
  • Will egg quantity or quality affect eligibility for coverage?
  • What criteria will insurers use to approve treatment?

We’ll share updates as more guidance is released.

What does this mean for me today?

Your current insurance coverage will not change until January 2026 at the earliest. In the meantime, you can prepare by:
  • Calling your insurance provider to confirm current fertility benefits
  • Asking your HR team when your company’s plan renews
  • Scheduling a consultation with a fertility specialist to discuss timing
  • Exploring financial options such as fertility grants, loans, or payment plans

Senate Bill 729 is a groundbreaking step toward fair and inclusive fertility coverage in California. Whether you’re beginning your family-building journey today or planning for the future, understanding this law is key to making informed decisions.

Our financial counselors and fertility specialists are here to guide you through insurance, treatment options, and timing—so you can confidently take the next step toward parenthood.

To learn more about Senate Bill 729 or any financial aspect of fertility care, schedule a consultation with one of our fertility experts.

Let's Take the Next Step

Our skilled fertility specialists are here to help. Contact us today and let’s discuss the next phase of your fertility journey.

Schedule a Call