California Senate Bill 729 FAQ: What You Need to Know About Expanded Fertility Insurance Coverage

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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 families received exciting news with the passage of Senate Bill 729 (SB 729)—a landmark law expanding insurance coverage for fertility treatments. Set to take effect on January 1, 2026, this bill is a significant step toward making fertility care more accessible, equitable, and inclusive.

From covering IVF (in vitro fertilization) to protecting access for the LGBTQ+ community, SB 729 changes the landscape of reproductive healthcare across the state. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about this bill and what it means for your fertility journey.

What is Senate Bill 729?

Senate Bill 729 requires many California health insurance plans to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. This includes advanced services like IVF and protections for those who may not meet traditional definitions of infertility, such as same-sex couples.

The bill applies to health plans that renew or begin after January 1, 2026, with some exceptions (such as religious employers and self-funded plans). Its goal is to create greater equality in fertility care access for all Californians.

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.

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