Insurance or Monetary Aid?

[Morgan-Kate]

Does anyone know of insurance plans that would work for those who are transitioning?  I've been doing research on my own insurance and found that it only covers the psychological aspect of the process.  I'm double-insured, but I have no access to the other plan's details (under my step-dad's) and it will most likely be pulled out from under me when my parents split next summer.
Now, I've heard of certain organizations that will provide monetary and emotional assistance to transitioning individuals.  That's how my childhood friend got through her own process, and that was in Texas of all places! I've looked into an organization that, had I actually been working my dream job right about now, would be going to for assistance: TCOP.  However, I'm still trying to apply for an academy.  Are there any organizations around North Carolina or Virginia that could help me when I begin my real transition?
My money situation isn't as bad as it could be, but it could also be MUCH better.  I unload trucks part-time at a store that pays me half my worth (avg income for my job category is around $14/hr. Mine is less than $10/hr).  I've got some in savings, but I'm also looking into a more stable living arrangement (emotionally and financially) that may or may not include a close friend who recently came out as Non-Binary. (Their idea is that we should stick together, especially with the area we're in)

[FTMax]

Hi Morgan-Kate,

You said you are double insured - who is your plan through? I'd encourage you to take a look at the plans under the Affordable Care Act and see if there is something offered in your state that will work for you. I've had plans in both Virginia and Washington DC and they've both covered my HRT, doctor visits, mental health, and surgery. Look at the terms of each plan and make sure there are no gender transition exclusions. Many doctors, especially ones that work with trans patients, know how to code visits to make sure they are covered by insurance.

As far as living arrangements, take a look at the Trans Housing Network on Tumblr. People can post if they're looking or if they have space available. You could submit a post and let people know that you and your friend are looking to get a place together. It's always cheaper with extra people.

I don't know of any organizations off the top of my head. We do have a good informed consent clinic in Richmond, VA. I believe they do things on a sliding scale, so you'd only pay what you could afford. I'm not sure what all that applies to, but it would be something to look into. If they are anything like the clinic I go to in DC, they may have additional free services. I got to meet with lawyers for free to process all of my document changes. You could look up the closest PFLAG chapter or LGBTQ support group and see if they could refer you to any other organizations that offer support.