Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Maryland

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency help:

• Call 911 for life‑threatening emergencies.
• Mental health support: National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262 (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA), 24/7, free and confidential. See HRSA’s program page for details. (hrsa.gov)
• Crisis: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. See Maryland Medicaid member help page for quick contacts. (health.maryland.gov)
• General help line: Dial 2‑1‑1 for Maryland 211 to find nearby shelters, food, diapers, and health services.

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Quick help box:

• If you have any health insurance (including Medicaid/HealthChoice), ask your plan for a no‑cost breast pump. It’s a federal preventive benefit with no copay on most non‑grandfathered plans. Start by calling the number on your member card or the plan’s member services. See HealthCare.gov’s breastfeeding benefits page. (healthcare.gov)
• If you’re pregnant and your income is within Maryland’s limit for pregnant individuals, apply for Medicaid through Maryland Health Connection. Many pregnant Marylanders qualify. See “Income limits” table below and apply online or by phone at 1‑855‑642‑8572. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• If you meet WIC income rules, Maryland WIC can give breastfeeding help and may provide a breast pump at no cost when needed (loaner or personal, depending on your situation). Call the Maryland WIC Hotline 1‑800‑242‑4942 or your local WIC office (county numbers below). (health.maryland.gov)
• You have the right to pump at work in a private space (not a bathroom) with reasonable break time under federal law. If you have problems, call the U.S. Department of Labor at 1‑866‑487‑9243. (dol.gov)
• Breast pumps and many nursing supplies are tax‑free in Maryland at the register. See state law details below. (mgaleg.maryland.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)

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Why this is different from the usual search results

Most top results talk about “free pumps through insurance,” but often skip Maryland‑specific numbers, local contacts, and your rights at work. This guide closes those gaps with:

• clear Maryland income limits for pregnancy Medicaid;
• the current WIC income chart for July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026;
• county WIC phone numbers;
• exact state and federal rights (public breastfeeding, pumping at work, tax‑free supplies); and
• plan‑B steps when something stalls, so you don’t lose weeks waiting. (marylandhealthconnection.gov, fns.usda.gov, health.maryland.gov, mgaleg.maryland.gov, dol.gov)

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The fastest path to a free breast pump in Maryland

Step 1

Call your health plan’s member services: Ask for “breast pump coverage under preventive services” and how to order with your in‑network DME (medical equipment) supplier. Most non‑grandfathered plans must cover breastfeeding support and equipment with no cost‑sharing for the duration of breastfeeding. If your provider says you need an electric or hospital‑grade rental, ask how to get the prescription/authorization. (healthcare.gov)

Step 2

Pregnant or just delivered and uninsured or over your plan’s budget: Apply for Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) or a Marketplace plan through Maryland Health Connection. There’s a Special Enrollment Period for pregnancy, and Medicaid for pregnant individuals uses higher income limits than standard adult Medicaid. Phone enrollment help 1‑855‑642‑8572. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

Step 3

Call Maryland WIC: If insurance can’t supply a pump quickly, WIC may provide a pump based on your needs (for example, returning to work/school or separation from baby), sometimes as a loaner hospital‑grade pump. Call your local WIC office (county numbers below) or the WIC Hotline at 1‑800‑242‑4942. (health.maryland.gov)

Reality check

• Some plans only cover a manual pump, or one electric pump per pregnancy. Others cover hospital‑grade rental only if medically necessary. Your doctor’s note often helps. Coverage details vary by plan, but the no‑cost preventive benefit still applies for non‑grandfathered plans. (healthcare.gov, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your insurer denies the pump in error or charges you, ask for an appeal under “preventive services” and contact the Maryland Insurance Administration’s Health Coverage Assistance Team (H‑CAT) at 410‑468‑2442 or the Life & Health Complaints line 1‑800‑492‑6116. (insurance.maryland.gov)

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Maryland income limits you can actually use today

Medicaid income limits for pregnant individuals in Maryland

Effective dates listed by Maryland Health Connection and Maryland Medicaid. “Pregnant” limits count the expected household size. (marylandhealthconnection.gov, health.maryland.gov)

Apply online, via app, in person, or by phone at 1‑855‑642‑8572 (TTY 1‑855‑642‑8573). (health.maryland.gov)

WIC income guidelines (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)

WIC uses 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. Use monthly numbers to check quickly. (federalregister.gov)

Sources publish the same values for 2025–26; see USDA WIC policy memo and Federal Register notice (applicable by July 1, 2025). (fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov)

Quick contact table

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What’s covered for breast pumps and lactation care

Private insurance and Marketplace plans in Maryland

• Health plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment (breast pumps) as a no‑cost preventive service for the duration of breastfeeding, with plan‑specific rules on manual vs. electric and rental vs. purchase. Your doctor’s recommendation guides what’s medically appropriate. (healthcare.gov)
• HRSA’s Women’s Preventive Services Guidelines support comprehensive lactation services and equipment. (hrsa.gov)
• Tip: Ask your plan for in‑network DME companies and whether you need a prescription. Some plans ship once you are in your third trimester; others after birth. Coverage can’t require you to “fail” a manual pump before getting an electric pump per the accepted preventive guidance. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) coverage notes

• Medicaid covers durable medical equipment when medically necessary, and HealthChoice MCOs administer benefits. For authorizations and suppliers, call your MCO member services or the HealthChoice Helpline 1‑800‑284‑4510 for help. (health.maryland.gov)
• Maryland Medicaid publishes DME fee schedules and preauthorization guidance. Your provider will submit medical necessity if a hospital‑grade rental is needed (for example, NICU separation). (health.maryland.gov)
• Income limits for pregnant individuals are in the table above; if you qualify, enroll right away—coverage can be life‑changing for prenatal/postpartum visits and pumping supplies. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

WIC breast pumps in Maryland

• Maryland WIC can help you get a pump through your insurance, or directly through WIC when needed. WIC offers different types (personal or loaner hospital‑grade) based on your specific situation. Talk to WIC staff about work/school plans and pump timing. (health.maryland.gov)
• Apply with your local WIC office or via the WIC Client Portal. Bring proof of identity, address, and income. Phones and emails for each county are listed below. (wicclientportal.health.maryland.gov, health.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your plan denies a medically needed pump or charges a copay for a preventive benefit, appeal in writing and call the Maryland Insurance Administration H‑CAT at 410‑468‑2442 or 1‑800‑492‑6116. For Medicaid plan issues, call the HealthChoice Helpline 1‑800‑284‑4510. (insurance.maryland.gov, health.maryland.gov)

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Your rights in Maryland: breastfeeding, pumping at work, and tax‑free supplies

• Breastfeeding in public: Maryland law says a mother may breastfeed in any public or private place she’s authorized to be. If you’re told to stop or move, you can report it to the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 410‑528‑8662. (mgaleg.maryland.gov)
• Pumping at work: Under the federal PUMP Act, most workers have the right to reasonable break time and a private space (not a bathroom) for up to one year after birth. If you run into problems, call the U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Division at 1‑866‑487‑9243. The EEOC’s Pregnant Workers Fairness Act also requires reasonable accommodations (like pumping breaks and a private space) for covered employers with 15+ employees. (dol.gov, eeoc.gov)
• Tax‑free pumps and supplies: Maryland exempts breastfeeding supplies from sales tax, including breast pumps, pump kits, milk storage bags, shields, shells, SNS, and purified lanolin. You should not be charged tax at the register. See the Comptroller’s guidance and the statute (Tax‑General §11‑211). (marylandtaxes.gov, codes.findlaw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If an employer blocks your pumping rights, file a complaint with DOL Wage & Hour or the EEOC, or call 1‑866‑487‑9243. If a store charges sales tax on exempt breastfeeding supplies, keep the receipt and contact the Maryland Comptroller. (dol.gov)

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Paid time and leave in Maryland when you have a baby

• Maryland Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI): The Department of Labor previously announced contributions starting July 1, 2025 with benefits starting July 1, 2026. In February 2025, the Department proposed delaying implementation (contributions in 2027, benefits in 2028). Check the FAMLI site for the current timeline before you plan income. (labor.maryland.gov)
• Maryland Healthy Working Families Act (earned sick and safe leave): Employers with 15+ employees must provide paid earned sick and safe leave; smaller employers must provide unpaid leave. This can help cover prenatal/postpartum appointments. (labor.maryland.gov)
• Federal FMLA: If your employer has 50+ employees and you meet hours/tenure rules, you may get job‑protected unpaid leave. Combine it smartly with state benefits once they are active.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If HR is unsure, print the Maryland Department of Labor guidance and ask for a written reply with reasons. For disputes, contact MD Labor. For discrimination or denial of pregnancy‑related accommodations, contact the EEOC. (eeoc.gov)

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How to apply step‑by‑step (keep it simple and fast)

• Insurance plan route:
  • Call member services and say you need a no‑cost breast pump under preventive services. Ask which DME vendors are in‑network and what documentation is required. (healthcare.gov)
• Medicaid route (if pregnant):
  • Apply at Maryland Health Connection or call 1‑855‑642‑8572. If approved, you’ll get assigned or choose a HealthChoice MCO. Call your MCO for the pump process and preferred DME vendor. (marylandhealthconnection.gov, health.maryland.gov)
• WIC route:
  • Call your local WIC office for an appointment or use the WIC Client Portal. Bring ID, proof of address, and income. Explain your work/school plans and any separation from baby; WIC staff will match the pump type to your needs and may loan hospital‑grade pumps. (health.maryland.gov, wicclientportal.health.maryland.gov)
• Workplace route:
  • Email your manager and HR with your pumping needs and request a private space that is not a bathroom. Link to DOL’s PUMP Act page in your request. If denied, call 1‑866‑487‑9243. (dol.gov)

Expected timelines

• Insurers often ship within about a week once the order is approved, but ask your plan for their exact turnaround. WIC can move quickly for medical separations. Always ask for a specific date by which the pump will ship or be available for pickup.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Keep notes: dates, names, and what was promised. Escalate to plan supervisors, then file a regulatory complaint (MIA H‑CAT 410‑468‑2442) if needed. (insurance.maryland.gov)

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Program comparison: which route fits your situation best

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Money‑saving extras in Maryland you might not know

• Tax‑free at checkout: Breast pumps, pump kits, milk storage bags, shields, shells, SNS, purified lanolin, baby bottles/nipples—no sales tax. If taxed by mistake, keep the receipt and contact the Comptroller. (marylandtaxes.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
• 12 months postpartum Medicaid coverage: Maryland provides 12 months of postpartum coverage, which can include lactation services. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• Non‑citizen pregnancy coverage (Healthy Babies Equity Act): Pregnant Marylanders of any immigration status can qualify for Medicaid pregnancy coverage up to 250% FPL. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If a pharmacy or store charges tax on exempt items, bring a printout of the Comptroller’s page. If a clinic says you lost coverage before 12 months postpartum, show the Maryland Health Connection notice and call 1‑855‑642‑8572. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until after birth to order a pump: Many plans accept orders in the third trimester. Ask now. (healthcare.gov)
• Not getting a prescription for an electric or hospital‑grade pump when needed: A short note from your provider can unlock coverage. (healthcare.gov)
• Assuming WIC is only food benefits: WIC provides breastfeeding counseling and may provide pumps or hospital‑grade loans in qualifying situations. (health.maryland.gov)
• Not using your right to pump at work: You are entitled to break time and a private space under federal law. (dol.gov)
• Paying sales tax on exempt supplies: Breastfeeding supplies are tax‑free in Maryland. (marylandtaxes.gov)

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Application checklist

• Proof of identity: driver’s license, MVA ID, or other photo ID.
• Proof of address: lease, utility bill, or official letter.
• Proof of income: recent pay stubs, unemployment letter, SNAP/Medicaid card, or tax return.
• If applying to WIC: immunization record for infants/children; proof of pregnancy if applicable. See Maryland WIC’s “How to Apply” page for specifics. (health.maryland.gov)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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Key Maryland contacts and regional resources

• WIC statewide hotline: 1‑800‑242‑4942. Local offices include: Baltimore City (Health Dept) 410‑396‑9427, Baltimore City (Johns Hopkins) 410‑614‑4848, Baltimore County 410‑887‑6000, Montgomery County (CCI) 301‑762‑9426, Prince George’s County (Health Dept) 301‑856‑9600, Anne Arundel 410‑222‑6797, Frederick 301‑600‑2507, Washington 240‑313‑3335, Lower Shore 410‑749‑2488. Full county list on Maryland WIC’s site. (health.maryland.gov)
• HealthChoice Helpline: 1‑800‑284‑4510 for managed‑care issues under Medicaid. (health.maryland.gov)
• La Leche League (free peer support): Maryland/DE/DC area, info lines 301‑593‑3282, 410‑233‑5490, 1‑800‑525‑3243, plus online leader locator. (search.211md.org, lllalliance.org)
• Maryland Breastfeeding Coalition: Statewide nonprofit with education and events; helpful for finding local lactation resources. (mdbfc.org)
• Hospital lactation warm lines (examples): MedStar Franklin Square 443‑777‑7427; MedStar Harbor Hospital 410‑350‑2234—free callbacks from lactation consultants. (medstarhealth.org)

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Tables you can use right now

Coverage snapshot by program

Pump type and typical use

Maryland pregnancy and WIC eligibility cheat sheet

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Diverse Communities in Maryland

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for inclusive lactation support and name/pronoun respect. La Leche League and hospital programs welcome all nursing parents. If you face discrimination, note the time and contact the provider’s patient relations and your MCO helpline 1‑800‑284‑4510. (health.maryland.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Medicaid covers medically necessary equipment and services; WIC can tailor pump options when mobility or endurance is limited. Ask for accessible clinic spaces and tele‑lactation visit options. (health.maryland.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Use TRICARE plan benefits for pumps and lactation support; if living in Maryland and also eligible for WIC, you can use WIC benefits along with TRICARE.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Under Maryland’s Healthy Babies Equity Act, non‑citizen pregnant Marylanders of any status may qualify for Medicaid pregnancy coverage up to 250% FPL. Call 1‑855‑642‑8572 for help in your language. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If you’re a Maryland resident and enrolled in a federally recognized tribe, you’re eligible for WIC on the same income rules; use WIC offices listed and ask about any nearby Indian Health Service resources. (federalregister.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Ask WIC about loaner pumps and tele‑lactation visits. If you’re on Medicaid and struggle with transportation, ask your MCO about non‑emergency medical transport to appointments. (health.maryland.gov)
• Single fathers: If you are the custodial parent of an infant under one year, you may enroll the child in WIC and request lactation guidance for feeding expressed milk; WIC serves infants and children regardless of the sex of the caregiver. (health.maryland.gov)
• Language access: Maryland Health Connection provides help in 200+ languages over the phone at 1‑855‑642‑8572. Ask WIC and your MCO for interpreters at no cost. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)

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Local organizations and support

• La Leche League MD/DC/DE: Phone support and local groups. 301‑593‑3282, 410‑233‑5490, 1‑800‑525‑3243. (search.211md.org)
• Maryland Breastfeeding Coalition: Advocacy, education, and events; check their site for local support opportunities. (mdbfc.org)
• Hospital warm lines (examples): MedStar Franklin Square 443‑777‑7427; MedStar Harbor Hospital 410‑350‑2234—free callbacks by lactation consultants. (medstarhealth.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If a local resource isn’t responsive, contact your county WIC office or use HRSA’s health center finder to locate clinics offering lactation services. (hrsa.gov)

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Ten Maryland‑specific FAQs

1. How many pumps can I get per pregnancy through insurance: Most plans cover one per pregnancy, with rental options for hospital‑grade as medically necessary. Ask your plan about timing and pump type. (healthcare.gov)
2. Can WIC give me a pump if I already have insurance: Yes, if your plan can’t provide one promptly or your situation requires a different type, WIC may provide or loan a pump based on need. (health.maryland.gov)
3. Are breastfeeding supplies really tax‑free at checkout in Maryland: Yes—pumps, kits, milk storage bags, and more are exempt. Bring the Comptroller’s page if a clerk isn’t aware. (marylandtaxes.gov)
4. What if my employer says there’s no space to pump: The space cannot be a bathroom. Employers generally must provide a functional, private space. Call DOL at 1‑866‑487‑9243 if they refuse. (dol.gov)
5. How quickly can I get a pump after I apply: Plans vary; many ship in about a week once approved. Always ask your plan/DME for a ship date and tracking. (healthcare.gov)
6. Do Maryland hospitals have lactation help after discharge: Many do and some run free warm lines; examples listed above. Ask your delivering hospital before discharge. (medstarhealth.org)
7. Does Maryland cover lactation visits after birth: Preventive lactation support is covered by non‑grandfathered plans with no cost‑sharing; Medicaid covers medically necessary services. Check with your plan/MCO for in‑network providers. (healthcare.gov)
8. Can non‑citizen pregnant Marylanders get coverage: Yes, under the Healthy Babies Equity Act up to 250% FPL during pregnancy and four months postpartum. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
9. What if my coverage ended after birth: Maryland now offers 12 months postpartum Medicaid coverage. Call 1‑855‑642‑8572 if you were cut off early. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
10. Who helps if my managed‑care plan denies a pump or lactation visit: Start with your MCO grievance, then the HealthChoice Helpline 1‑800‑284‑4510; you can also contact Maryland Insurance Administration H‑CAT 410‑468‑2442. (health.maryland.gov, insurance.maryland.gov)

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What to bring to every appointment or call

• Insurance or Medicaid ID card and photo ID.
• Doctor’s note if you need an electric or hospital‑grade pump.
• Due date or baby’s birth date and shipping address.
• Work/school schedule and return‑to‑work date to match pump features.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maryland Department of Health, Maryland Health Connection, U.S. Department of Labor, HRSA, USDA, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards with primary sources, verified links, and fast updates when policies change.

Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.

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Disclaimer

Important: Programs change. Eligibility, amounts, and procedures listed here can be updated by agencies at any time. Always verify details with the official agency or your health plan before you apply or purchase. This guide is information, not legal or medical advice. We protect user privacy and do not collect personal health data; you should avoid sharing private medical information in online forms you don’t trust. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.

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Sources and official references

• Maryland WIC—Apply, benefits, contacts, and breastfeeding support pages. (health.maryland.gov)
• Maryland WIC Client Portal. (wicclientportal.health.maryland.gov)
• USDA WIC income guidelines for 2025–26 (effective July 1, 2025); Federal Register notice. (fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov)
• Maryland Medicaid income limits for pregnant individuals (effective 2025); Maryland Health Connection eligibility page. (health.maryland.gov, marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• HealthCare.gov—Breastfeeding benefits and preventive care for women. (healthcare.gov)
• HRSA Women’s Preventive Services Guidelines (lactation services and equipment). (hrsa.gov)
• U.S. Department of Labor—PUMP Act rights and fact sheets; FAQs. (dol.gov)
• EEOC—Pregnant Workers Fairness Act overview and final regulations. (eeoc.gov)
• Maryland law—Public breastfeeding (Health‑General §20‑801). (mgaleg.maryland.gov)
• Maryland Comptroller—Medical equipment and hygiene exemptions; Tax‑General §11‑211 (breastfeeding supplies tax‑exempt). (marylandtaxes.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
• Maryland HealthChoice Helpline and Help for Members. (health.maryland.gov)
• FAMLI implementation timeline announcements. (labor.maryland.gov)
• MedStar hospital lactation warm lines (free support). (medstarhealth.org)

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Final reality check

• Breast pumps are covered, but the type and process differ by plan. Pin down your plan’s steps in one call, keep notes, and follow the plan‑B route here if anything stalls. The sooner you start, the smoother your first weeks of feeding will be.

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