Ways to save

Six ways to pay less, and who each one is for

Each route has its own rules. The biggest one: copay cards can't be used with Medicare or Medicaid.

Free drug programs

Also called patient assistance programs. Most drugmakers run one and send brand medication free, usually to your home or doctor's office, for a year at a time.

Best for: No insurance, or insurance that won't cover the drug
Usually need: Proof of income, a form your doctor signs, proof of U.S. residency
Where to look: Medicine Assistance Tool, a search of drugmaker programs

Copay cards

Drugmakers pay part of your copay for their brand drugs. You sign up online and show the card at the pharmacy.

Best for: Private insurance from a job or the marketplace
Can't use with: Medicare, Medicaid, VA or TRICARE (federal law)
Where to look: The drug's official website, under "savings" or "cost"

Charity foundations

Nonprofits that help pay copays, premiums or deductibles for specific serious conditions. Funds open and close during the year, so check back if one is closed.

Best for: Medicare members and insured people with high costs
Where to look: TotalAssist from Patient Advocate Foundation (866-512-3861), HealthWell Foundation

Direct cash prices

Many drugmakers now sell brand drugs at lower cash prices on their own sites. TrumpRx.gov lists many of these offers and, since May 2026, hundreds of generics.

Best for: No insurance, or a drug your plan doesn't cover
Watch out: Cash purchases usually don't count toward your insurance deductible or out-of-pocket limit

Discount cards

Free cards like GoodRx and SingleCare give a discounted cash price at most pharmacies. They are not insurance, and you use them instead of your insurance for that fill.

Best for: Generics, and a backup while you wait on a program
Tip: Ask the pharmacist to compare the card price with your insurance copay

Community health centers

Federally funded clinics that charge on a sliding scale by income, whether or not you have insurance. Many have low-cost pharmacies.

Best for: Anyone with low income, insured or not
Where to look: Find a Health Center (search by ZIP code)

Last checked October 1, 2026.