Flu shots and insurance, explained plainly.

CDC says most health insurance plans cover the yearly flu shot as preventive care. All Health Insurance Marketplace plans and most other private plans must cover certain vaccines, including the flu shot, without a copayment or coinsurance — when you get it from an in-network provider.

That last part matters. A pharmacy can be in one plan's network and not another's. Before your visit, check that the pharmacy takes your insurance — call the number on your insurance card or ask the pharmacy.

Medicare Part B covers flu vaccines. Ask the pharmacy whether it accepts Medicare before you go, and bring your Medicare card.

According to CDC, most adults on Medicaid are guaranteed coverage of recommended vaccines, including the flu shot, at no cost. Rules can differ by state and by which providers take Medicaid, so ask the pharmacy whether it accepts your Medicaid coverage.

Children on Medicaid can get vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program (see below).

Even when a vaccine itself is covered or offered at low cost, CDC notes that you may be charged an office visit fee or an administration fee. Whether you pay one depends on your plan, the pharmacy, your age, and your state.

So it's worth asking two questions when you call or arrive:

• “Are you in my plan's network?”
• “Will I owe anything today, including any administration fee?”

We don't list cash prices for pharmacies. Prices change and differ by location, so ask the pharmacy directly.

You can still get a flu shot. CDC says flu vaccines are often available at no or low cost for people without insurance. Places CDC points to include:

• Federally funded health centers, which can serve you if you don't have insurance or a regular doctor and often charge on a sliding scale based on income. Find a health center (HRSA) (opens in a new tab).
• Your local health department.
• Pharmacies. Ask about the price before your visit.
• Some employers, schools, and community organizations.

Fees may still apply, including office visit or administration fees. If you'd like to look at coverage options, CDC points to HealthCare.gov.

The Vaccines for Children program provides vaccines at no cost to children through age 18 who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured, or American Indian or Alaska Native.

Providers in the program may charge a fee to give the shot, but CDC says they can't refuse to vaccinate your child if you can't pay that fee.

To find a VFC provider, ask your child's doctor whether they take part, or contact your state or local health department. Some pharmacies take part, but not all.

Pharmacy age rules vary by state, and many pharmacies vaccinate only children 3 and older. For younger children, a doctor, clinic, or health department is usually the place to go.