Free Breast Pumps and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Help for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help you can use right now
- If you or your baby are in immediate danger: Call 911.
- If you’re in a mental health crisis: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed during pregnancy or postpartum: Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for free, 24/7 support in English and Spanish, with interpreters in 60+ languages. (mchb.hrsa.gov, hrsa.gov)
- If you need help finding local resources fast: Call Well Badger at 800-642-7837 (text 608-360-9328) for free, statewide referrals to WIC, BadgerCare Plus, clinics, and more. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Quick help box
- Get a pump through BadgerCare Plus (Medicaid): Wisconsin Medicaid now allows a provider to order your pump any time in the third trimester, and it covers one pump per year of breastfeeding; after three pumps in your lifetime, prior authorization is needed. Call ForwardHealth Member Services: 800-362-3002. (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- Get a loaner or help through WIC: WIC can loan pumps (including hospital-grade when medically needed) and offers peer counselors. Start online or find your local clinic. Call Well Badger: 800-642-7837 if you’re not sure where to begin. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Use private or Marketplace insurance: Most plans must cover a pump and lactation support with no cost-sharing. Call the number on your card and ask for an in‑network DME supplier. If you hit roadblocks, contact the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance at 800-236-8517. (healthcare.gov, oci.wi.gov)
- TRICARE (active duty, Guard/Reserve, retired families): TRICARE covers a manual or standard electric pump and supplies at no cost with a prescription; you can buy and submit for reimbursement. (tricare.mil)
- Rides to medical or lactation visits if you have BadgerCare Plus: Call the NEMT manager 866-907-1493 for free rides, bus passes, or gas reimbursement if you have no other way to get there. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Work pumping rights: Under the federal PUMP Act, most workers have the right to pump at work in a private, non‑bathroom space for up to one year after birth. Call the U.S. Department of Labor at 866-487-9243 with questions. (dol.gov)
What this guide covers and how it’s different
What we did: We checked current Wisconsin Medicaid/BadgerCare Plus rules, WIC policies, federal benefits rules, state workplace protections, and official hotlines, and we pulled real phone numbers and current income limits for 2025. We also looked at the top search results and noticed gaps such as missing exact BadgerCare pregnancy income numbers, no mention of Medicaid’s third‑trimester pump coverage change, weak links to official pump order forms, and a lack of statewide contact numbers and ride help. This guide fills those gaps with official sources and direct contacts. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, forwardhealth.wi.gov)
Quick paths to a free breast pump in Wisconsin
| Path | Who qualifies | What you can get | How to apply | Key contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BadgerCare Plus (Wisconsin Medicaid) | Pregnant people in Wisconsin up to 306% FPL; special Prenatal Plan if you don’t qualify for full Medicaid | One manual or electric pump per year of breastfeeding; hospital‑grade pump rentals when medically necessary; pumps can be ordered starting in the third trimester | Apply on ACCESS; ask your OB/midwife to submit the DHS Breast Pump Order (Form F‑01153) to an in‑network DME provider | 800-362-3002 (ForwardHealth Member Services) • HMO Enrollment help 800-291-2002 • Provider search (ForwardHealth directory) |
| WIC | Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum; infants and children under 5; income up to 185% FPL or adjunctively eligible | Pump education; peer counselor support; pump loans (including hospital‑grade when needed) | Start WIC pre‑application or call your local WIC clinic | Well Badger 800-642-7837 • WIC clinic locator |
| Private/Marketplace insurance | Most non‑grandfathered plans | A covered pump (manual or electric) and lactation support without cost‑sharing | Call your plan; ask for in‑network DME and lactation benefits | Healthcare.gov breastfeeding benefits; OCI complaint line 800-236-8517 |
| TRICARE | TRICARE‑eligible mothers (including adoption) | Manual or standard electric pump plus supplies at no cost with prescription | Get from network DME, exchanges, or retail; or buy then file claim with prescription | TRICARE breast pumps page |
Sources: Wisconsin DHS ForwardHealth policy and forms; WIC program pages; Healthcare.gov; TRICARE. (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, healthcare.gov, tricare.mil)
BadgerCare Plus (Medicaid) coverage for pumps and maternity care
Start here
- Action item: If you’re pregnant and your household income is within the BadgerCare Plus pregnancy limit (up to 306% FPL), apply right away on ACCESS and ask your OB/midwife to order your pump during your third trimester. Most members are in an HMO; the HMO or DME will coordinate delivery. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Coverage details you can bank on: ForwardHealth reimburses for the purchase of one pump per year of breastfeeding. After three pumps have been dispensed in your lifetime, prior authorization is required. Manual pumps are billed as E0602; electric pumps as E0603; hospital‑grade rentals as E0604. DHS requires electric pumps to meet specific suction and cycle standards. Providers can prescribe a pump in the third trimester. (forwardhealth.wi.gov, yumpu.com, wisconsinhealthnews.com)
- Order form your clinic will use: Wisconsin DHS Breast Pump Order (Form F‑01153). You can show the form to your provider if they ask what’s needed. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- If you need a ride to the OB, DME pickup, or lactation visit: Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation covers rides, bus tickets, or gas money. Call 866-907-1493. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Member help lines: ForwardHealth Member Services 800-362-3002; HMO Enrollment Specialist 800-291-2002; ForwardHealth provider directory if you need to locate a DME supplier. (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
2025 BadgerCare Plus pregnancy income limits (monthly, 306% FPL)
| Family size | Income limit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $5,393.25 |
| 3 | $6,795.74 |
| 4 | $8,198.26 |
| 5 | $9,600.75 |
| 6 | $11,003.24 |
| 7 | $12,405.76 |
| 8 | $13,808.25 |
| Each additional person | +$1,402.49 |
Source: Wisconsin DHS BadgerCare Plus Federal Poverty Levels, effective February 1, 2025–January 31, 2026. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Postpartum coverage reality check
- Current rule in Wisconsin: BadgerCare Plus pregnancy coverage runs through the end of the pregnancy and 60 days postpartum (through the end of the month in which day 60 falls). To keep that postpartum coverage, you must have filed your BadgerCare application before your pregnancy ends. Wisconsin has not adopted the 12‑month postpartum extension (as of September 2025), despite bipartisan efforts. Plan early for coverage transitions. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov, wisconsinexaminer.com)
- If you are not eligible for full BadgerCare because of immigration status: The BadgerCare Plus Prenatal Plan covers prenatal visits and delivery for people who otherwise cannot enroll; use the same pump paths through WIC and private insurance if you have it. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
How to apply and get your pump
- Step 1: Apply for BadgerCare Plus on ACCESS; if needed, ask for Express Enrollment so you can start prenatal care immediately. Pregnancy often does not require separate verification unless something conflicts, so apply as early as possible. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 2: As soon as you enter your third trimester, ask your OB/midwife to submit DHS Form F‑01153 (Breast Pump Order) to an in‑network DME. Make sure your mailing address and phone number are current with your HMO. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- Step 3: If you need a hospital‑grade rental (for example, NICU separation or latching problems), have your provider include medical necessity notes with the order; rentals are covered when medically necessary. (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- Step 4: If transportation is a barrier, book NEMT at 866-907-1493 at least two business days before the appointment, or request gas reimbursement. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your HMO’s Member Services on the back of your card and ForwardHealth Member Services at 800-362-3002 to check the order status. If your plan denies coverage or delays unreasonably, ask for a grievance and appeal. If you still have trouble, contact Well Badger at 800-642-7837 or your local WIC office for a loaner hospital‑grade pump while the policy issue is resolved. (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
WIC in Wisconsin: Pump loans, counseling, and postpartum support
Start here
- Action item: If you are pregnant or newly postpartum, contact WIC early. WIC can loan pumps (including hospital‑grade pumps when indicated), teach you how to use them, and pair you with a peer counselor who texts or calls in the evenings and weekends. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Proof that pumps are available through WIC loan: Wisconsin DHS lists a Breast Pump Loan and Release Agreement (F‑40106) and notes the requirement to return loaned electric pumps. Ask your clinic about availability and loan periods. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- How long can you stay on WIC postpartum: WIC states pregnant and breastfeeding parents can receive extra foods and stay enrolled up to one year postpartum; non‑breastfeeding postpartum eligibility is generally up to six months by regulation. Your local clinic will confirm your category. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
2025–2026 WIC income guidelines (effective July 1, 2025)
| Household size | Monthly income (185% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
| 6 | $6,653 |
| 7 | $7,501 |
| 8 | $8,349 |
Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service, Federal Register WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines for July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026. (fns.usda.gov)
How to apply and get a pump loan
- Step 1: Start the WIC pre‑application online or call your local WIC office. If you don’t know your office, use the WIC clinic locator or call Well Badger at 800-642-7837 for help. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 2: Ask about breastfeeding peer counselor support and whether your clinic has electric or hospital‑grade pumps available to loan in your situation (for example, returning to work/school, NICU separation, supply building). You’ll sign the pump loan agreement if a pump is issued. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 3: Keep your appointments and stay in touch with your peer counselor for tips on flange fit, cleaning, and pumping schedules that fit your life. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your WIC clinic doesn’t have pumps available, ask when the next loan is expected and request a peer counselor anyway. Meanwhile, pursue coverage through BadgerCare Plus, Marketplace or employer insurance, or TRICARE (if applicable). If you’re unsure where to turn, call Well Badger at 800-642-7837 for a warm handoff. (healthcare.gov, tricare.mil, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Marketplace and employer health plans in Wisconsin
Start here
- Action item: Call your plan and ask, “Which in‑network DME supplier provides covered breast pumps, and what type is covered?” Under federal law, most non‑grandfathered plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and a pump for the duration of breastfeeding, with no cost‑sharing. Your plan may set guidelines (manual vs. electric, rental vs. purchase, timing). (healthcare.gov)
- Order timing and documentation: Many plans require a prescription and may allow a pump before birth. Your doctor’s recommendation governs medical appropriateness. (healthcare.gov)
- If your insurer denies coverage or delays you: File a grievance and, if needed, an external review. The Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance can help with plan disputes at 800-236-8517 (or 608-266-0103). (oci.wi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you still can’t get a pump on time, apply to WIC for a loaner and ask your provider to document medical necessity for an electric or hospital‑grade pump. If you lose coverage mid‑pregnancy, check BadgerCare Plus eligibility and apply right away. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
TRICARE (for service members and families)
- Coverage highlights: TRICARE covers a manual or standard electric pump and supplies at no cost with a prescription; you can obtain through network DME, exchanges, retail stores, or buy and submit for reimbursement. The supply allowance includes items like tubing, valves/membranes, and storage bags (limits apply). (tricare.mil)
- How to claim if you self‑purchase: Submit DD Form 2642 with the prescription and receipt to your regional contractor. (tricare.mil)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your TRICARE regional contractor or the TRICARE breast pumps coverage page for step‑by‑step instructions and current reimbursement rates. (tricare.mil)
Your rights at work to pump — and time off in Wisconsin
Pumping at work
- Federal protection: The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act (part of the FLSA) requires most employers to provide reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom space to pump for up to one year after birth. Questions go to the U.S. Department of Labor at 866-487-9243. (dol.gov)
- Pay for pump breaks: If you are not completely relieved of duty, that time must be paid. If your employer provides paid breaks, pump breaks taken during those periods must also be paid. (dol.gov)
Leave time in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin FMLA: Covered employers must allow up to 6 weeks for birth or adoption, plus 2 weeks for your own serious health condition and 2 weeks to care for a spouse/child/parent within a calendar year. Leave is generally unpaid, but health coverage continues under the same terms. (dwd.wisconsin.gov, dwd.wi.gov)
- Federal FMLA: Up to 12 weeks in a 12‑month period for eligible employees at covered employers; runs concurrently with Wisconsin FMLA where both apply. (dwd.wisconsin.gov)
Quick table: Work rights snapshot
| Law | What it guarantees | How long | Who’s covered | Where to get help |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PUMP Act (FLSA) | Breaks and private, non‑bathroom space to pump | 1 year after birth | Most employees; limited exemptions | U.S. DOL 866-487-9243 |
| WI FMLA | 6 weeks for birth/adoption; 2 weeks own serious health condition; 2 weeks to care for family member | Per calendar year | Employers with 50+ permanent employees; other criteria apply | WI DWD Equal Rights |
| Federal FMLA | 12 weeks unpaid, job‑protected leave | Per 12‑month period | Eligible employees at covered employers | U.S. DOL Wage & Hour |
Sources: U.S. Department of Labor PUMP Act guidance; Wisconsin DWD FMLA pages. (dol.gov, dwd.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Document everything (dates, names), ask HR for the written policy, and contact the U.S. Department of Labor or Wisconsin DWD Equal Rights to file a complaint or get guidance. (dol.gov, dwd.wisconsin.gov)
Other Wisconsin maternity supports that help breastfeeding succeed
- Prenatal Care Coordination (PNCC): A BadgerCare/Medicaid benefit that connects you to services during pregnancy and just after birth; ask your clinic to refer you. Call 800-362-3002 for help finding a PNCC agency. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Rides to appointments (BadgerCare Plus): Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation can get you to prenatal, postpartum, lactation, and WIC appointments. Book at 866-907-1493; you can request bus passes or gas reimbursement if you drive. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Mental health support: The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential, and 24/7 at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Well Badger at 800-642-7837 for a live specialist who can connect you with local programs, or call 211 in Wisconsin for community resources. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Step‑by‑step: How to get your pump with the least hassle
- Step 1: Decide your coverage path (BadgerCare Plus, WIC, Marketplace/employer, or TRICARE). If you have more than one, use them together (for example, BadgerCare for your pump and WIC for a hospital‑grade loan if needed). (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, healthcare.gov, tricare.mil)
- Step 2: Ask your provider to write a prescription or complete the DHS Breast Pump Order (F‑01153) and send it to an in‑network DME. Confirm delivery method (pickup, shipping) and your address. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Step 3: If you need a hospital‑grade rental, make sure your provider’s note explains the medical reason (for example, NICU separation, latching difficulties, exclusive pumping). (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- Step 4: Line up work pumping rights and a place to pump before you return to work. Share the DOL fact sheet with your employer if needed. (dol.gov)
- Step 5: Keep a backup plan: If a shipment is delayed, contact your WIC office for a loaner, ask your hospital lactation team for a short‑term rental, or call your insurer for an alternate DME. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate with your insurer or HMO, file a grievance, and work with Well Badger to secure a short‑term loaner while the issue is resolved. (oci.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Documents you’ll likely need
| Program | What to have ready |
|---|---|
| BadgerCare Plus | ID, proof of Wisconsin residence, recent income, and pregnancy status if asked (not always required). Apply before your pregnancy ends to secure the 60‑day postpartum coverage window. Provider submits F‑01153 for pumps. |
| WIC | ID, proof of address, proof of income or adjunctive eligibility (BadgerCare Plus/FoodShare). Sign the pump loan agreement when receiving a loaner. |
| Marketplace/employer plans | Insurance ID, provider prescription, plan’s DME supplier information. |
| TRICARE | Prescription specifying manual or standard electric; receipt if filing for reimbursement. |
Sources: Wisconsin DHS eligibility guidance; WIC policy and forms; Healthcare.gov; TRICARE. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, healthcare.gov, tricare.mil)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting past delivery to apply for BadgerCare Plus: File your application before the pregnancy ends so the 60‑day postpartum coverage applies. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
- Not asking your provider to order in the third trimester: Wisconsin Medicaid now allows ordering during the third trimester; don’t wait. (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- Using an out‑of‑network DME: Always ask your plan which suppliers are in‑network before ordering. (healthcare.gov)
- Skipping WIC because you think it’s only food: WIC also offers pump loans and peer counselors statewide. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Not lining up workplace pumping space: Share the DOL fact sheet with your employer before you return to work. (dol.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Milwaukee plan switch after birth: A mom enrolled in BadgerCare Plus applied during pregnancy and asked her OB to order a pump in the third trimester. Because ForwardHealth covers one pump per year and allows third‑trimester orders, the pump arrived before delivery. She later borrowed a hospital‑grade pump from WIC during a short NICU stay, then returned it after transition to a standard electric. (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Rural marathon worker: A mom in rural Clark County used NEMT for a ride to her DME pickup and booked WIC peer counselor calls in the evenings. She used the PUMP Act when returning to a small employer to secure a private pumping space. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, dol.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your WIC clinic and OB to use your correct name and pronouns. WIC and the Maternal Mental Health Hotline offer interpreter services and inclusive support. If workplace bias blocks pumping time, contact the U.S. Department of Labor for help at 866-487-9243. (dol.gov, mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use NEMT for accessible transportation and ask for a hospital‑grade pump rental if stamina or mobility make pumping harder. For children with special health care needs, Wisconsin Wayfinder is available via Well Badger. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: TRICARE covers pumps and supplies; get a prescription and buy or obtain via network DME/exchanges. Submit DD‑2642 for reimbursement if you purchased out of pocket. (tricare.mil)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: If you can’t enroll in full BadgerCare because of immigration status, apply for the BadgerCare Plus Prenatal Plan for prenatal care and delivery. WIC eligibility is available regardless of immigration status if you meet income and other criteria. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Tribal WIC clinics (for example, Oneida Nation WIC, Menominee, GLITC sites) provide WIC services, peer counselors, and pump loans. Use the WIC clinic locator to connect with tribal clinics. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: If home is far from clinics, use tele‑lactation through your hospital or WIC. Schedule NEMT rides early for in‑person appointments and ask WIC for a loaner pump if shipping delays occur. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Single fathers: If you are caring for a nursing infant (for example, separated families), ask WIC about infant benefits and pump loans that support feeding plans; you may be eligible for WIC on behalf of your child. Use Well Badger to locate local lactation resources. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Language access: Well Badger offers interpreter services; the Maternal Mental Health Hotline supports English and Spanish with interpreters in 60+ languages. Ask your HMO for interpreter services for pump training and lactation visits. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, mchb.hrsa.gov)
Local organizations and support networks
- Well Badger Resource Center: One‑on‑one help to find WIC, BadgerCare Plus, clinics, doulas, and more. 800-642-7837. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- La Leche League (statewide chapters): Free peer support groups and leaders. Use the Find a Leader or Group map to locate Wisconsin groups. (lllalliance.org)
- African American Breastfeeding Alliance of Dane County: Culturally rooted lactation support and education. (latchonaaba.com)
- Public Health Madison & Dane County resource list: Community organizations, hospital warm lines, and places to pump. (publichealthmdc.com)
- County WIC offices: Examples include Dane County WIC: 608-267-1111, Milwaukee City WIC: 414-286-8820, Winnebago WIC: 920-232-3350. Find your county in the DHS list. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
- BadgerCare Plus pregnancy income limit (306% FPL): See table above. Apply on ACCESS; third‑trimester pump orders are allowed. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- WIC income limit (185% FPL): See table above; loaner pumps and peer support available. (fns.usda.gov)
- Key phone numbers: 800-362-3002 (ForwardHealth), 800-291-2002 (HMO Enrollment Specialist), 866-907-1493 (NEMT), 800-642-7837 (Well Badger), 866-487-9243 (U.S. DOL), 800-236-8517 (OCI), 1-833-852-6262 (Maternal Mental Health Hotline). (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, dol.gov, oci.wi.gov, mchb.hrsa.gov)
Application checklist
- For BadgerCare Plus:
- ID, residence, and income details; apply before your pregnancy ends to secure 60‑day postpartum coverage.
- Provider completes F‑01153 pump order in your third trimester. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- For WIC:
- Proof of identity, address, and income or proof that you’re on BadgerCare Plus/FoodShare; sign the pump loan agreement if you’re borrowing a pump. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- For Marketplace/employer plans:
- Insurance ID and prescription; confirm in‑network DME supplier. (healthcare.gov)
- For TRICARE:
- Prescription specifying manual or standard electric; receipt if you purchased first and need reimbursement. (tricare.mil)
Regional contacts snapshot
| Area | Who to call |
|---|---|
| Dane County | Public Health Madison & Dane County WIC: 608-267-1111; community resources include AABA, Harambee Village, Roots4Change. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, publichealthmdc.com) |
| Milwaukee | City of Milwaukee WIC: 414-286-8820; hospital lactation warm lines listed by Public Health. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| Winnebago/Northeast | Winnebago WIC: 920-232-3350; Breastfeeding Alliance of Northeast Wisconsin listed by county health; peer counselors available. (co.winnebago.wi.us) |
| Statewide help | Well Badger: 800-642-7837; ForwardHealth Member Services: 800-362-3002; NEMT: 866-907-1493. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, forwardhealth.wi.gov) |
Frequently asked questions (Wisconsin‑specific)
- Does BadgerCare Plus really let me get a pump before my baby is born: Yes. Providers can order pumps starting in the third trimester. (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- How many pumps will Medicaid cover for me over time: ForwardHealth will reimburse for one pump per year of breastfeeding; after three total pumps in your lifetime, prior authorization is required. Rentals don’t count toward that limit. (forwardhealth.wi.gov)
- What if my baby is in the NICU and I need a stronger pump: Hospital‑grade rentals are covered when medically necessary; ask your provider to document the reason. WIC may also loan a hospital‑grade pump. (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Can I get transportation to my lactation or WIC visit if I’m on BadgerCare Plus: Yes. Book NEMT at 866-907-1493 for rides, bus tickets, or gas reimbursement. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- How long does BadgerCare Plus cover me after birth: Wisconsin currently covers 60 days postpartum; the 12‑month extension has not been adopted as of September 2025. Apply for other coverage early if needed. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov, wisconsinexaminer.com)
- I’m uninsured and not eligible for full BadgerCare because of immigration status: Apply for the BadgerCare Plus Prenatal Plan for prenatal/delivery services; WIC and local clinics can support feeding. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Does my Marketplace/employer plan have to cover a pump: In most cases yes, with no cost‑sharing, but plans may set reasonable guidelines. Ask for in‑network DME suppliers and any timing requirements. (healthcare.gov)
- My employer says there’s no place to pump: The PUMP Act requires a private, non‑bathroom space and reasonable breaks for up to one year after birth. Contact the U.S. Department of Labor at 866-487-9243 if needed. (dol.gov)
- Where can I find local breastfeeding groups: Try WIC peer counselors, La Leche League leaders, and county breastfeeding coalitions (for example, the African American Breastfeeding Alliance in Dane County). (dhs.wisconsin.gov, lllalliance.org, latchonaaba.com)
- Who do I call if my private plan keeps denying my pump: File a grievance and contact the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance at 800-236-8517 for help with complaints. (oci.wi.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers focused on turning complex policy into practical steps for families.
How we source information: We used only official Wisconsin DHS, ForwardHealth, Healthcare.gov, USDA/FNS, HRSA, U.S. DOL, and established nonprofit sources. We verify links and use current 2025 figures for income limits and coverage where available. See citations after each section.
Review and updates: This page follows our Editorial Standards and is monitored for policy changes. Last verified: September 2025; next review: April 2026.
Contact us with corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and update verified errors promptly.
Disclaimer
Accuracy and timelines: Program rules and amounts can change quickly. Always confirm eligibility, benefits, and provider network rules with the relevant agency or your health plan before you make decisions.
Not legal or medical advice: This guide is for general information and is not legal, medical, or case‑specific advice.
Security on our site: We maintain link hygiene and regularly test official portals we reference. If you spot a broken link or security concern, please email info@asinglemother.org.
Sources
- BadgerCare Plus income limits and pregnancy policy: Wisconsin DHS FPL table (effective 02/01/2025–01/31/2026); BadgerCare Plus pregnancy eligibility and postpartum window. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
- Medicaid pump coverage and forms: ForwardHealth pump policy (one per year; PA after three; specifications; rental E0604); provider order F‑01153; third‑trimester ordering change. (forwardhealth.wi.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, wisconsinhealthnews.com)
- WIC support and loan policy: WIC breastfeeding support page; WIC Breast Pump Loan and Release Agreement; 2025–26 USDA WIC income guidelines. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Transportation to care: Wisconsin DHS Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation program and contact number. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Private/Marketplace coverage: Healthcare.gov breastfeeding benefits; Wisconsin OCI complaint resources. (healthcare.gov, oci.wi.gov)
- Workplace rights: U.S. Department of Labor PUMP Act fact sheet and FAQs; Wisconsin DWD FMLA resources. (dol.gov, dwd.wisconsin.gov)
- Maternal mental health: HRSA National Maternal Mental Health Hotline information. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Local organizations: La Leche League directory; African American Breastfeeding Alliance of Dane County; Public Health Madison & Dane County breastfeeding resource list. (lllalliance.org, latchonaaba.com, publichealthmdc.com)
- Prenatal Plan: Wisconsin DHS BadgerCare Plus Prenatal Plan basics and income limits. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Postpartum coverage status in Wisconsin: Coverage remains 60 days postpartum as of 2025; legislative updates noted. (wisconsinexaminer.com)
If you need tailored help, call Well Badger at 800-642-7837 to talk with a resource specialist who can match you to your nearest WIC clinic, BadgerCare enrollment help, and lactation support today. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
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- 🚗 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
