How much is Plan B?
Brand-name Plan B One-Step costs about $50 in 2026, typically $35 to $60 at the pharmacy. Generic levonorgestrel versions work the same way and often cost under $15, or as low as about $12 with a discount card.
Cost breakdown
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plan B One-Step (brand) | ~$50 | Retail typically $35 to $60 depending on pharmacy and location. |
| Generic levonorgestrel | Under $15 | Brands like Take Action, My Way, Aftera, and AfterPill; same effectiveness. |
| Generic with discount card | ~$12 | As low as roughly $12.25 with a pharmacy discount program. |
| With prescription + insurance | $0 | Many plans cover emergency contraception at no cost with a prescription. |
What Plan B costs in 2026
Brand-name Plan B One-Step averages about $50, with retail prices generally ranging from $35 to $60 depending on the pharmacy and where you live. It is sold over the counter with no age restriction and no prescription required.
Generic versions of the same medication, levonorgestrel, often cost under $15. Brands such as Take Action, My Way, Aftera, and AfterPill are FDA-approved equivalents and work exactly the same as the name-brand pill.
Brand vs. generic and how to save
There is no medical difference between brand and generic levonorgestrel emergency contraceptives, so the main reason to buy brand-name Plan B is recognition rather than effectiveness. Choosing a generic can cut the cost by two-thirds or more.
Discount programs lower the price further, with some generics available for around $12 using a pharmacy savings card. With a prescription, many insurance plans cover emergency contraception at no out-of-pocket cost, and clinics like Planned Parenthood may offer it at reduced or no cost.
Timing and what to know
Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, so cost should not delay getting it. Pharmacies stock it on the shelf or behind the counter, and it can be purchased without an ID or prescription.
Plan B works best for people under a certain weight range, and effectiveness can decline at higher body weights. If you have questions about which option fits your situation, a pharmacist or clinic can help you choose between levonorgestrel and prescription alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
- Is generic Plan B as effective as the brand?
- Yes. Generic levonorgestrel pills are FDA-approved and work exactly the same as brand-name Plan B One-Step, usually at well under half the price.
- Can I get Plan B for free?
- Often yes. With a prescription, many insurance plans cover emergency contraception at no cost, and some clinics provide it free or at reduced prices.
- Do I need a prescription or ID to buy Plan B?
- No. Plan B and its generics are available over the counter to anyone, with no prescription, age limit, or ID required.
Researched and edited by Calvin Lauderdale, Lead Researcher & Editor. Figures on this page were verified against the sources above as of June 23, 2026.