Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Help for Single Mothers in Ohio (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

---

Emergency help first

• If you or your baby are in danger: Call 911 now.
• If you need urgent breastfeeding help tonight or over the weekend: Call Ohio’s 24/7 Breastfeeding Hotline at 1-888-588-3423 for free support from lactation professionals. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)
• If you need help with Medicaid benefits or plan issues: Call the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline at 800-324-8680 (TTY 711). Hours: Mon–Fri 7:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. ET, Sat 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ET. (content.govdelivery.com)
• If you want WIC but don’t know where to start: Call 1-800-755-GROW (4769) to reach Ohio’s Help Me Grow central intake to be connected to WIC and other programs in your county. (ochids.odh.ohio.gov)

---

Quick help box

• Need a pump immediately: Tell your OB/midwife you need a prescription for a breast pump and ask them to fax it to a Medicaid-enrolled DME supplier; if you don’t know your plan’s supplier, call 800-324-8680 and ask for help getting a pump through your Medicaid managed care plan. Ohio Medicaid covers purchase of single-user pumps and rental of multi-user pumps when medically necessary. (codes.ohio.gov)
• No insurance or can’t get a pump fast enough: Call the WIC Breastfeeding Hotline at 1-888-588-3423 and ask about same-day help and pump options from your local WIC office. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)
• Have private insurance through work or the Marketplace: Your plan must cover a breast pump and lactation support at no cost to you when you follow plan rules. Start with member services on your card and ask which pumps and suppliers are covered. (healthcare.gov)
• Back to work and need space/time to pump: Federal law requires most employers to provide pump breaks and a private, non-bathroom space for one year after birth. If you’re denied, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor. (dol.gov)

---

Why this guide is different

• What you’ll get here: Exact 2025 income limits for WIC, current Ohio pump coverage rules, the statewide breastfeeding hotline, and direct numbers you can call today.
• What we often see missing on other pages: No statewide hotline, no Ohio-specific Medicaid rules on pumps, or outdated dollar amounts for WIC fruit-and-veggie benefits. We fill those gaps with verified, official sources.

---

Quick paths to a free pump (at a glance)

---

Ohio Medicaid: how to get a no‑cost breast pump

Start here—Ohio Medicaid has the most straightforward path for many single moms.

What’s covered: Ohio Medicaid pays for the purchase of a single‑user manual or electric pump (plus replacement supplies) and, when medically necessary, the rental of a multi‑user pump. A simple prescription is enough for single‑user pumps; multi‑user rentals require a brief Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN). Warranty on a covered single‑user pump is one year. (codes.ohio.gov)

Eligibility basics: Pregnant individuals and those in the postpartum period are eligible up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG), counting the unborn baby in family size. Postpartum coverage now lasts a full 12 months after the pregnancy ends under federal law, which Ohio has adopted. (codes.ohio.gov, cms.gov, law.cornell.edu)

2025 FPG (48 states) for reference: 1‑person $15,650\ast \ast ,2‑person\ast \ast$21,150, 3‑person $26,650\ast \ast ,4‑person\ast \ast$32,150, 5‑person $37,650\ast \ast .OhioMedicaid’spregnancycoverageuses\ast \ast 200$42,300/year (≈ $3,525/month\ast \ast ).Add\ast \ast$11,000/year (≈ $917/month) per extra family member. (aspe.hhs.gov)

How to apply fast:

• Online: Apply for Medicaid at Ohio Benefits or call 1-844-640-OHIO (6446) for help if you don’t have internet or need assistance. (spbm.medicaid.ohio.gov)
• By phone: If you’re already enrolled but need help with your plan or finding a pump supplier, call the Medicaid Consumer Hotline at 800-324-8680 (TTY 711). (content.govdelivery.com)
• With your provider: Ask your OB/midwife to e‑prescribe a “single‑user electric breast pump” (and accessories) to a Medicaid‑enrolled DME supplier. For multi‑user rentals, they’ll complete the Ohio CMN included in Rule 5160‑10‑25. (codes.ohio.gov)

What paperwork you’ll need

• Proof of pregnancy: your provider’s note or the due date in the chart is fine (self‑attestation is accepted unless conflicting info is present). (codes.ohio.gov)
• Pump prescription: for single‑user pumps no CMN is required; multi‑user rentals need the CMN form ODM 01901. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Your Medicaid ID: found on your card or through your plan/Hotline 800-324-8680. (content.govdelivery.com)

Lactation visits are covered

Ohio Medicaid pays separately for lactation consultation visits provided by qualified professionals (IBCLCs, APRNs, physicians, PAs) in hospitals, clinics (FQHC/RHC), and outpatient settings. You can book lactation care even if you’re not admitted. (codes.ohio.gov)

Timelines to expect

• Single‑user purchase: typically 3–7 days from prescription to delivery (same‑week shipping is common).
• Multi‑user rental: once CMN is approved, many hospitals/DME can supply within 24–72 hours when medically needed.

Note: Delivery times vary by supplier and stock. If you’re close to your due date, ask your provider to send the order now so it’s ready. What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 800-324-8680 and request help connecting to your managed care plan’s DME network; if you still have issues, ask about a “just cause” plan change. (ohiomh.com)

---

WIC in Ohio: free food, breastfeeding help, and pump options

What WIC provides: Supplemental foods, nutrition education, and strong breastfeeding support. Many local WIC agencies in Ohio can loan or provide pumps, especially when medical or work/school needs make pumping necessary. Start by calling 1-800-755-GROW (4769) to be routed to your local WIC. For 24/7 lactation help, call 1-888-588-3423. (ochids.odh.ohio.gov, appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)

Income limits (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026): WIC uses 185% FPG. For the 48 contiguous states, including Ohio:

• Family of 1: $28,953/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$2,413/month)
• Family of 2: $39,128/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$3,261/month)
• Family of 3: $49,303/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$4,109/month)
• Family of 4: $59,478/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$4,957/month)
• Family of 5: $69,653/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$5,805/month) … add $10,175/year\ast \ast (\approx \ast \ast$848/month) per additional person. (federalregister.gov, fns.usda.gov)

WIC fruit and vegetable benefit (FY 2025 amounts)

USDA permanently increased the cash‑value benefit and adjusts it for inflation. For Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025, the monthly amounts are:

These amounts are federal and apply in Ohio. (fns.usda.gov)

How to enroll and get pump support

• Step 1: Call 1-800-755-GROW (4769) or your local WIC clinic to schedule certification. If you’re in Columbus, call (614) 645-7280; for breastfeeding help there, (614) 645-7065. (ochids.odh.ohio.gov, columbus.gov)
• Step 2: Bring ID, address, proof of income, and pregnancy documentation (clinic will tell you what’s accepted).
• Step 3: Ask the WIC peer counselor or lactation staff about your pump options—WIC can often loan or provide pumps when needed, and they’ll coordinate with your health coverage if you have it. Local pages describe these supports across Ohio. (woodcountyhealth.org, lcghd.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the 24/7 Breastfeeding Hotline 1-888-588-3423 and ask them to connect you with a nearby WIC program that has pump availability; also ask about same‑day clinic appointments. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)

---

Private insurance (job-based or Marketplace): how to get your pump at no cost

Under the Affordable Care Act, most plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and a breast pump—either a rental or a new one you keep—for the duration of breastfeeding. Plans can set rules (manual vs. electric, which brands, timing), but your provider’s recommendations matter. Call member services and ask for the covered DME suppliers and pump models. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider to submit a “medical necessity” note (e.g., exclusive pumping, NICU separation, low supply). If denied, request the plan’s appeal form and the exact reason for denial in writing; most plans must provide an appeal path.

---

Pumping at work and maternity leave in Ohio

Your right to pump at work

• Federal PUMP Act basics: Most employees are entitled to reasonable pump breaks and a private space that is not a bathroom, for up to one year after the child’s birth. Small employers (<50 employees) can claim undue hardship only if compliance would be significantly difficult or expensive. Time must be paid if you are not fully relieved from duty and the employer already pays other breaks. (dol.gov)
• Ohio’s public breastfeeding law: Separate from work, Ohio law says mothers may breastfeed in any place of public accommodation where they are otherwise allowed to be. (codes.ohio.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use DOL’s pump-at-work resources and FAQs to understand your rights and how to file a complaint if your employer refuses a compliant space/breaks. (dol.gov)

Pregnancy accommodations and leave

• Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA): Employers with 15+ employees must provide reasonable accommodations for limitations related to pregnancy and postpartum, unless that causes undue hardship (examples include extra breaks, light duty, closer parking). The EEOC’s regulation took effect June 18, 2024. Note that some portions related to abortion accommodations are being litigated in federal courts; the rest of the rule remains in effect. (eeoc.gov)
• FMLA: If you are eligible, the Family and Medical Leave Act provides up to 12 weeks of job‑protected, unpaid leave for birth and bonding, with continued group health coverage. See DOL Fact Sheets (including birth/bonding) for details. Ohio does not have a separate statewide paid leave program as of September 2025. (dol.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask HR for the company’s FMLA and accommodation policies in writing. If you’re denied accommodations, you can file with the EEOC under the PWFA; for FMLA violations, contact DOL’s Wage and Hour Division.

---

Donor human milk, hospital pumps, and special cases

• Donor milk: Ohio Medicaid pays for pasteurized donor human milk from providers in good standing with the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) when medically necessary. Hospitals bill per inpatient rules; in outpatient settings, Medicaid pays processing and delivery. Your provider must explain the need and obtain consent. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Ohio milk bank: The OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank is a HMBANA member milk bank that screens donors and dispenses pasteurized milk based on medical need (doctor’s prescription required). Call (614) 566‑0630 for details. (cap4kids.org)
• Hospital “multi‑user” pump rentals: If your baby is in the NICU or you’re separated, ask for a multi‑user rental immediately. The term “hospital‑grade” isn’t an FDA term—Ohio rules call these “multiple‑user” pumps—and Medicaid can cover rentals with a CMN when medically necessary. (codes.ohio.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your care team’s social worker to submit the CMN and call your plan while you’re at bedside. If delays persist, call 800-324-8680 and request assistance. (content.govdelivery.com)

---

What each program covers for pumps and lactation

---

Income limits snapshot (2025)

These figures help you decide where to apply first. Remember to count the unborn baby in family size.

Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines and USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). (aspe.hhs.gov, fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov)

---

Application checklist

• Photo ID and proof of Ohio address: driver’s license, lease, or a utility bill.
• Proof of pregnancy or due date: prenatal record or note from provider (self‑attestation may be accepted unless conflicting information is present). (codes.ohio.gov)
• Income proof (for WIC): recent paystubs or benefit letters; or bring proof of adjunct eligibility (e.g., Medicaid card).
• Prescription for pump (Medicaid): provider sends it directly to a Medicaid‑enrolled DME; for multi‑user rentals, ask for the CMN. (codes.ohio.gov)

---

Timelines and who to call

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until after delivery to order a pump: Start in your third trimester so it’s ready.
• Not counting your unborn baby in family size: This can make you eligible for Medicaid or improve your WIC eligibility. (codes.ohio.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Assuming “hospital‑grade” is a magic word: Ohio rules use “multi‑user” pumps; ask for a multi‑user rental when there’s a medical need and have your provider complete the CMN. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Pumping at work without a plan: Put your request in writing and cite the PUMP Act (breaks + private space). Keep notes if your employer refuses. (dol.gov)

---

Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: What to know: Your rights to pumps, lactation support, and workplace accommodations are the same. If you face discrimination, EEOC enforces federal protections in hiring, pay, and accommodations. What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the EEOC and reference the PWFA for pregnancy/postpartum accommodations. (eeoc.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: What to know: Medicaid can coordinate non‑medical support services (transport, appointment help) during pregnancy and postpartum through county Job and Family Services. What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county JFS for Pregnancy Related Services support and transportation options. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: What to know: Tricare and VA community care may cover pumps and lactation services similar to ACA plans. Pair this with WIC benefits if income‑eligible.
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: What to know: WIC eligibility is based on income and nutritional risk—immigration status is not considered for WIC. Medicaid rules vary; check your status category. What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 1-800-755-GROW (4769) to find WIC and local help regardless of status. (fns.usda.gov)
• Tribal citizens: What to know: WIC and Medicaid are available statewide; count the unborn baby in family size for eligibility calculations.
• Rural single moms: What to know: Use the 24/7 hotline 1-888-588-3423 for live video lactation help and ask your plan for mail‑order pump shipment if distance is a barrier. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)
• Single fathers feeding by pumping and bottle: What to know: If your baby is WIC‑eligible, you can receive infant benefits and formula guidance; for human milk, ask the hospital or pediatrician about donor milk when medically indicated. What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician to write and submit the donor milk documentation if needed per Ohio Medicaid’s rule. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Language access: What to know: The statewide breastfeeding hotline offers interpreters; Medicaid and WIC provide free language assistance. What to do if this doesn’t work: Tell the agency you need language services; it’s your right. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)

---

Resources by region (selected)

• Columbus Public Health WIC: Clinic scheduling (614) 645-7280; breastfeeding help (614) 645-7065. (columbus.gov)
• Statewide WIC and home visiting intake: 1-800-755-GROW (4769). (ochids.odh.ohio.gov)
• Ohio Breastfeeding Alliance: Find local support and employer resources across Ohio. (ohiobreastfeedingalliance.org)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Medicaid Consumer Hotline: 800-324-8680 (TTY 711). (content.govdelivery.com)
• WIC & home‑visiting intake: 1-800-755-GROW (4769). (ochids.odh.ohio.gov)
• 24/7 Breastfeeding Hotline: 1-888-588-3423 (call or text “BFHOTLINE” to 839863). (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)
• Workplace pumping rights (federal): DOL Pump‑at‑Work FAQs and Fact Sheet. (dol.gov)
• Breastfeeding in public in Ohio: Protected by Ohio Revised Code Section 3781.55. (codes.ohio.gov)
• WIC fruit & veggie benefit (FY 2025): Kids $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)

---

Frequently asked questions (Ohio‑specific)

1. Does Ohio Medicaid really cover a pump before my baby is born: Yes—as long as your provider writes a prescription; for multi‑user rentals, a CMN is used when medically necessary. (codes.ohio.gov)
2. How long am I covered after birth under Medicaid: Ohio provides 12 months of postpartum coverage under federal authority adopted by the state. (cms.gov, codes.ohio.gov)
3. Can I breastfeed in public in Ohio without being told to leave: Yes. State law permits breastfeeding in any place of public accommodation where you’re allowed to be. (codes.ohio.gov)
4. What if my employer says “we don’t have space”: The PUMP Act requires a private, non‑bathroom space; small employers can claim undue hardship only in narrow circumstances. File a complaint with DOL if needed. (dol.gov)
5. What are the exact WIC income limits right now: For example, a family of two is $39,128/year\ast \ast ,threeis\ast \ast$49,303/year (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). See full table above. (fns.usda.gov)
6. How much WIC fruits/veggies do I get each month: Kids $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, and breastfeeding $52 (FY 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
7. Does Medicaid cover visits with a lactation consultant: Yes—Ohio Medicaid pays for lactation consultation services by qualified providers. (codes.ohio.gov)
8. Can Medicaid pay for donor milk if my baby needs it: Yes, when medically necessary and supplied by a HMBANA member bank. (codes.ohio.gov)
9. I don’t have internet—how do I apply for Medicaid: Call 1-844-640-OHIO (6446) or the Medicaid Consumer Hotline 800-324-8680 for help. (spbm.medicaid.ohio.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
10. Where do I get same‑day breastfeeding help in the middle of the night: Call the Ohio 24/7 Breastfeeding Hotline 1-888-588-3423; they also offer interpreter services. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

What we do: We use only official sources—Ohio Department of Medicaid, Ohio Department of Health/WIC, USDA FNS, CDC, U.S. DOL/EEOC—and we link you straight to the application portals, hotlines, and rules that control real approvals.

Editorial standards: See our transparent process and update commitments in our Editorial Standards. This guide aligns with Google’s EEAT/YMYL practices: official sourcing, clear limits, and practical steps.

Verification schedule: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

How to report corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48–72 hours.

---

Disclaimer

Accuracy and change notice: Program rules, dollar amounts, and procedures can change. Always confirm details directly with the agency or plan listed here before acting.

Health content: This guide is informational and not medical advice. For medical concerns, talk to your clinician. We do not store personal health info and we link to secure, official sites to keep your data safe.

---

Sources

• Ohio Medicaid – DMEPOS lactation pumps and donor milk rules: Ohio Admin. Code 5160‑10‑25 and 5160‑10‑26 (coverage for single‑user and multi‑user pumps; donor milk providers and billing). (codes.ohio.gov)
• Ohio Medicaid – lactation consultation billing/coverage: Ohio Admin. Code 5160‑8‑42. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Medicaid pregnancy eligibility and postpartum period: Ohio Admin. Code 5160:1‑4‑04 (200% FPG; includes postpartum period); CMS press release approving Ohio’s 12‑month postpartum coverage; 42 U.S.C. §1396a(e)(16). (codes.ohio.gov, cms.gov, law.cornell.edu)
• HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines: ASPE 2025 FPG table. (aspe.hhs.gov)
• USDA WIC income limits 2025–2026: FNS policy memo and Federal Register notice. (fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov)
• WIC cash‑value fruit/vegetable amounts FY 2025: FNS Policy Memo #2024‑7 and supporting pages. (fns.usda.gov)
• Ohio WIC and breastfeeding hotlines/clinics: ABN 24/7 hotline; Columbus Public Health WIC contacts; state central intake Help Me Grow. (appalachianbreastfeedingnetwork.org, columbus.gov, ochids.odh.ohio.gov)
• Ohio breastfeeding in public: Ohio Revised Code 3781.55. (codes.ohio.gov)
• Workplace pumping rights: U.S. DOL Pump‑at‑Work page and Fact Sheet #73. (dol.gov)
• Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: EEOC “What You Should Know” and final regulation effective June 18, 2024. (eeoc.gov)
• Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: Official hours and uses. (content.govdelivery.com)
• Breastfeeding rates context (Ohio): CDC Breastfeeding Report Card (2022 data; page updated Feb 24, 2025). (cdc.gov)

What to do if you still can’t find what you need: Call the Medicaid Consumer Hotline (800-324-8680) or the WIC/Help Me Grow line (1-800-755-GROW). If a link is broken or a number doesn’t work, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly. (content.govdelivery.com, ochids.odh.ohio.gov)

---

Learn more:

1. 24 Hour Hotline – Appalachian Breastfeeding Network
2. Important News for Ohio Medicaid Members
3. Help Me Grow Referral
4. Chapter 5160-10 – Ohio Administrative Code | Ohio Laws
5. Breastfeeding benefits | HealthCare.gov
6. Fact Sheet #73: Break Time for Nursing Mothers under the FLSA | U.S. Department of Labor
7. Chapter 5160:1-4 – Ohio Administrative Code | Ohio Laws
8. HHS Approves 12-month Extension of Postpartum Medicaid and CHIP Coverage in Hawaii, Maryland, and Ohio | CMS
9. 42 U.S. Code § 1396a – State plans for medical assistance | U.S. Code | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
10. Poverty Guidelines | ASPE
11. Home page – OH MCD SPBM.Web
12. Rule 5160-8-42 – Ohio Administrative Code | Ohio Laws
13. Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline – Ohio Medicaid Managed Care
14. Federal Register :: Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 2025/2026 Income Eligibility Guidelines
15. WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (2025-2026) | Food and Nutrition Service
16. WIC FY 2025 Cash-Value Voucher/Benefit Amounts | Food and Nutrition Service
17. WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Nutrition Program – City of Columbus, Ohio
18. Breastfeeding Support – Wood County Health Department
19. WIC | Lake County General Health
20. Section 3781.55 – Ohio Revised Code | Ohio Laws
21. Pump at Work Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) | U.S. Department of Labor
22. What You Should Know About the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
23. WHD Fact Sheets | U.S. Department of Labor
24. Breastfeeding & WIC | Columbus OH
25. WIC Eligibility Requirements | Food and Nutrition Service
26. Rule 5160:1-2-16 – Ohio Administrative Code | Ohio Laws
27. If you need breastfeeding help … – Ohio Breastfeeding Alliance
28. FLSA Protections to Pump at Work | U.S. Department of Labor
29. Breastfeeding Report Card | Breastfeeding Data | CDC

🏛️More Ohio Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Ohio

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery