


Leah Miller is a mental health counselor and is trained as an alcohol and substance abuse counselor. Her clinical experience has included inpatient and outpatient treatment, and severe mental illness in residential and community settings.




Leah Miller is a mental health counselor and is trained as an alcohol and substance abuse counselor. Her clinical experience has included inpatient and outpatient treatment, and severe mental illness in residential and community settings.
In the United States, more than 46 million Americans aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in 2021, but only 6% received treatment.1 Getting treatment for substance use disorder can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t have the financial means to seek care. The good news is that several options and resources can help you get the care you need. This page will help you learn more about free rehab centers as well as low-cost and state-funded options that are available to help you begin your recovery journey.
If you’re ready to find a free rehab near you, you have options. You can start by contacting your local health department to learn about the options available. You can also contact community health clinics and non-profit organizations in your area and inquire about substance use disorder treatment.
If you have insurance, be sure to check your coverage. Private and public insurance plans often include coverage for substance use disorder treatment, allowing you to obtain free alcohol rehab or free drug rehab. Exploring your insurance options can help you access a wider range of facilities and services and more personalized treatment options.
Are you wondering, ‘Can I go to rehab for free?’ In short, yes, you may be able to obtain drug and alcohol addiction treatment for free. Free rehab centers are facilities that provide drug and alcohol addiction treatment at no cost to individuals seeking help. These programs aim to make rehab accessible to those who may not have the financial means to cover the cost of treatment.
Free rehab centers may be operated by community initiatives, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Free rehab centers differ in the services provided. However, many offer detox, inpatient and outpatient rehab, and aftercare services. The programs and services can vary in duration and may include shorter 28- or 30-day programs or longer 60-day or 90-day programs.2
Funding may come from donations, grants, and the federal and state governments. Free rehab centers often have limited resources compared to private addiction treatment centers, however, they play an important role in offering essential treatment options for individuals struggling with substance misuse and addiction.
Many people can qualify for free drug rehab or free alcohol rehab. While the qualifications vary, programs first and foremost consider a person’s financial need. Eligibility typically extends to individuals who are low-income, without insurance, and who cannot afford private treatment. Free rehab centers may consider the following factors when determining an individual’s eligibility:
Some programs prioritize specific demographics, such as pregnant women or veterans. To determine if you meet the qualifications for a specific program, you can contact the program ahead of time. Additionally, if you qualify for Medicaid, you may be eligible for free or low-cost health coverage that can help you pay for addiction treatment at state-funded facilities. Medicaid is a state and federal program, so some states may offer additional benefits and services beyond what federal law requires.3
The types of treatment in free drug rehab centers vary depending on the facility and services they offer. Treatment may vary in duration, intensity, and treatment setting. Common treatment settings include:2
Treatment may also include various aftercare services, which are activities designed to promote recovery following the completion of a formal treatment program. This can include activities such as participation in 12-step support groups (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous) and residing in a sober living facility.4
State-funded rehab programs are government-supported initiatives that provide addiction treatment services for free or at a low cost for individuals in need. They offer a range of services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. You can often access these centers for free by contacting a community clinic or your local health department.
Keep in mind that if you have private or public insurance, you may be able to access free or low-cost treatment, as many insurance plans include coverage for substance use disorder treatment, making rehab more accessible for those seeking help.
Faith-based rehab programs approach addiction treatment through the lens of various religious or spiritual beliefs. People who follow a certain belief system may feel more comfortable in an addiction rehab program that provides care that aligns with their personal beliefs.
Facilities that offer faith-based rehab may require people to participate in activities related to their faith, such as meditation, prayer, church services, or studies on religious literature. Faith-based facilities may also have different rules and guidelines than state-funded rehabs or private treatment centers. Local religious organizations may be able to provide information on finding or getting into a free faith-based rehab facility or how to get financial assistance for addiction treatment.
If you are looking for a free inpatient rehab center or other resources related to substance use disorder and mental health treatment, the following resources may be helpful:
If you are not able to find state-funded or other free drug rehab programs, consider the following options:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt39443/2021NSDUHFFRRev010323.pdf
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). What Is Substance Abuse Treatment?. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma14-4126.pdf
McKay, J.R. (2010). Continuing Care Research: What We’ve Learned and Where We’re Going. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2670779/
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