Can I get my insurance to pay for a wig?

Short Answer

Yes, many insurance plans cover wigs when prescribed as a cranial prosthesis. Here's how to find out if you qualify and what steps to take next.

Yes, many insurance plans do cover wigs — but not automatically, and not always fully. Whether you qualify for insurance coverage for wigs depends on your specific policy, the reason you need a wig, and how your doctor documents that need. It's not a simple yes or no, but it's absolutely worth exploring if cost is a concern.

If you're researching this, you're probably weighing options carefully. Maybe you're worried about the financial side of starting over with your hair. Maybe you're wondering if your situation even qualifies. You're not alone in feeling uncertain about this process — and the good news is, you have more options than you might think.

When does insurance typically cover wigs?

Most insurance companies consider wigs a medical expense when hair loss is caused by a medical condition or treatment. That includes chemotherapy, radiation, alopecia, burns, or scalp surgery.

The key term you'll see is "cranial prosthesis." That's insurance language for a wig prescribed for medical reasons. It sounds clinical, but it's actually helpful — it signals to your insurer that this isn't cosmetic. It's functional.

If your hair loss is related to a medical diagnosis, your doctor can write a prescription for a cranial prosthesis. That prescription is what opens the door to potential coverage.

What does insurance usually cover?

Coverage varies widely depending on your plan. Some policies cover the full cost of one wig per year. Others cover a percentage — often 80% after your deductible. Some cap coverage at a specific dollar amount, like $250 or $500.

You'll also want to know if your plan requires you to use an in-network provider or if you can be reimbursed after purchasing from any retailer. Some plans are flexible. Others are strict.

It's worth calling your insurance company directly and asking these specific questions:

Does my plan cover cranial prostheses?
What's the maximum coverage amount?
Do I need prior authorization?
Can I purchase from any wig retailer, or only in-network providers?
How often can I get a replacement wig?

Write down the answers. Ask for the representative's name and a reference number. This creates a paper trail if you need to follow up later.

How do I get a prescription for a wig?

Your doctor — usually your oncologist, dermatologist, or primary care physician — can write a prescription for a cranial prosthesis. The prescription should include your diagnosis, the reason for hair loss, and the medical necessity of the wig.

Some doctors are very familiar with this process. Others may need a little guidance from you. It's okay to ask your doctor's office if they've written wig prescriptions before. If they haven't, you can let them know what your insurance company requires.

Once you have the prescription, keep copies. You'll likely need to submit it along with an itemized receipt when filing your claim.

What if I don't have insurance or my plan doesn't cover wigs?

If insurance isn't an option, there are still ways to access wigs at little or no cost. Many nonprofit organizations provide free wigs to women experiencing medical hair loss. Some programs are national. Others are local.

You can also check if your state offers assistance. Some states have laws requiring insurers to cover wigs for cancer patients. It's worth researching what's available where you live.

And if you're working within a budget, glueless wigs and beginner-friendly options have come a long way. You don't have to spend thousands to find something beautiful and comfortable. This is part of your wig buying guide journey — knowing what fits your lifestyle and your finances.

How do I file a claim for wig reimbursement?

If your insurance allows out-of-network purchases, here's the general process:

Get your prescription from your doctor.
Purchase your wig and keep the itemized receipt.
Submit a claim form (available on your insurer's website) along with the prescription and receipt.
Wait for processing — this can take a few weeks.

Some women in our BossCrowns community have shared that persistence matters here. If your claim is denied the first time, ask why. Sometimes it's a paperwork issue that can be fixed. You have the right to appeal.

What should I look for when choosing a wig for insurance coverage?

Even with insurance, you're still the one who has to wear the wig every day. So fit, comfort, and confidence matter just as much as cost.

Look for wigs labeled as medical-grade or designed for sensitive scalps. These are often lighter, softer, and more breathable. If you're going through treatment, comfort becomes even more important.

Consider your lifestyle too. Do you want something low-maintenance? Do you need a style that works for both professional settings and casual days? How much time do you want to spend on styling?

These wig shopping tips apply whether you're paying out of pocket or using insurance. This is still about you — your ease, your confidence, your everyday life.

You're allowed to advocate for yourself

Navigating insurance can feel like one more thing on an already full plate. But asking questions, following up, and pushing back when needed? That's not being difficult. That's taking care of yourself.

You deserve support — financial and otherwise. If insurance can help cover this cost, it's worth the paperwork. And if it doesn't, there are still paths forward. You're not stuck.

This part of how to choose a wig isn't just about the hair itself. It's about removing barriers so you can focus on what matters: feeling like yourself again, or maybe for the first time in a while. And that's worth every phone call, every form, every follow-up.

You're doing more than research right now. You're preparing. You're planning. You're making space for your own needs. That's not small — that's everything.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Wig?

Explore our Medical Wigs collection — hand-picked for women just like you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my health insurance pay for a wig?

It depends on your policy and the reason for your hair loss. If prescribed as a cranial prosthesis for a medical condition, many plans offer partial or full coverage.

How much does insurance typically reimburse for a wig?

Coverage varies widely — some plans cover up to $500, others reimburse 80% of the cost. Call your insurer to confirm your specific benefits.

Do I need prior authorization before buying a wig?

Some insurance plans require prior authorization. Check with your insurer before purchasing to avoid claim denials.