Several programs can cover prescription costs for seniors who qualify. Here is where to look and how to get help applying.
Where seniors find free prescription help
Start with Medicare's Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy), which can cut Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays to a few dollars per drug for those who qualify on income. Next, manufacturer patient assistance programs provide brand-name drugs free or low-cost to eligible patients. Nonprofit foundations such as the PAN Foundation, HealthWell Foundation, and the Assistance Fund give grants for specific conditions, and directories like NeedyMeds and RxAssist list hundreds of programs. Some states run their own Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs). Community health centers and local Area Agencies on Aging can also point you to local help.
How to apply and what you'll need
Most programs ask for proof of income, U.S. residency, and your medication list, and manufacturer programs often need a signature from your prescriber. You can apply for Extra Help anytime through the Social Security Administration. Foundation grants open and close as funding allows, so apply early when a fund for your condition is open. Keep recent tax or benefit statements handy. The process can feel overwhelming, which is why many seniors call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427), where a licensed agent helps match you to programs and explains exactly what to submit.