Our Best Shot: Cost is not a reason to avoid getting a COVID shot The shot is free. But stubborn, mistaken worries remain about being billed. By EDITORIAL BOARD, Star Tribune April 24, 2021 — 6:00pm Text size Copy shortlink: • • • The COVID-19 vaccine is free. For patients, there are no out-of-pocket expenses. No copay. No coinsurance. No office visit fee. No bill even if you haven't met your annual deductible. It doesn't matter if you have health insurance or you don't. Or if you're a senior enrolled in Medicare. Or if you're younger and rely on the state's Medical Assistance program or MinnesotaCare. An individual's cost to get the shots is $0, period, because the federal government is providing the vaccines free of charge to every American. That includes the associated costs of getting it.