Sliding Scale Fees for Rehab: Income-Based Payment for Rehab

Seeking addiction treatment is a brave and potentially life-changing decision, and it should never be out of reach because of the cost of rehab. Many treatment centers offer sliding scale rehab options, which are flexible fees that adjust based on your income and financial situation.¹ On this page, you’ll learn how sliding scale payments work, how to qualify, and where to find affordable help.

Recovery is possible; we’re here to help you take the first step. Call to speak with an admissions navigator today.

What Are Sliding Scale Fees for Addiction Treatment?

Sliding scale fees are flexible payment structures that adjust the cost of treatment based on your income and financial situation.¹ Typically, your payment amount depends on factors like your household income and family size.¹ The lower your income, the less you’ll pay at a facility that offers a sliding scale rehab model.¹

These fees are often calculated as a percentage of your income or grouped into income-based tiers.² Sliding scale therapy and rehab options are commonly available through community-based programs, nonprofit treatment centers, and some private facilities.²

Who Qualifies for Income-Based Payment Programs?

While eligibility varies by facility, individuals who have little or no means to afford treatment typically qualify for income-based rehab.² Inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programs determine eligibility and payment discounts using proof of income, family size, and sometimes insurance status.² Some facilities prioritize underserved populations, such as people experiencing homelessness, expectant or postpartum mothers, or members of rural communities.²

How Are Sliding Scale Fees Calculated?

Income-based rehab programs often use federal poverty guidelines or income brackets to determine your payment rate.² These guidelines are tied to the federal poverty level (FPL), which varies by household size and, in some cases, by state.²

For example, in 2025, the FPL for a family of six in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., is $43,150.³ If a treatment center bases its sliding scale payment structure on these guidelines, a family earning below that threshold may qualify for significant discounts.³ To assess eligibility, facilities usually require financial documentation, such as pay stubs or tax returns. This information helps determine your income bracket and calculate a reduced fee based on your ability to pay for rehab.

How Much Does Drug & Alcohol Rehab Cost with Sliding Scale Fees?

The income-based rehab cost can vary widely depending on your financial situation, the level of care you need, and the treatment facility you choose. But for many people, sliding scale fees can dramatically reduce the cost of care.²

For example, suppose you’re considering an outpatient program with a standard cost of $5,000. If your income falls below the federal poverty level (FPL), you may qualify for a discount that reduces your out-of-pocket cost to as little as $0–$1,500.

While discount rates vary by provider, the chart below offers a general example of how some sliding scale rehab programs structure their fees based on FPL percentages:

Note: These ranges are examples only. Each facility sets its own sliding scale payment structure and eligibility criteria based on its policies and funding sources.

Find Affordable Addiction Treatment Programs

Worried about how to pay for treatment? You have options. Many rehab programs offer sliding scale fees, payment plans, or other financial assistance. Whether you’re paying for rehab without insurance or exploring low-cost options like sober living programs, help is available.

If you’re concerned about the cost of rehab, there are ways to find help that fits your budget. Many treatment centers offer sliding scale fees, payment plans, or other financial assistance options. You can start by:

• Searching for local nonprofit or community-based treatment programs.
• Asking providers if they offer income-based payment options.
• Using resources like our rehab directory to compare facilities.
• Calling our helpline for personalized guidance.

Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or navigating next steps after rehab, our admissions navigators can help you find a program that meets your treatment needs and budget.

Start the Recovery Journey

Affordable, high-quality addiction treatment is possible. Whether you’re looking for inpatient care, outpatient support, rehab aftercare, or help navigating payment options, American Addiction Centers (AAC) is here for you. Our network of trusted facilities offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment at every stage of recovery. Call now to speak with an admissions navigator to learn more about treatment and using health insurance to pay for rehab, or explore our nationwide treatment centers below:

• Laguna Treatment Center
• River Oaks Treatment Center
• Recovery First Treatment Center
• AdCare Hospital
• AdCare Rhode Island
• Oxford Treatment Center
• Desert Hope Treatment Center
• Greenhouse Treatment Center

If you or a loved one is ready to begin your journey, help is available. Call AAC to learn more about addiction treatment and explore your options to start recovery.