LowerScript for Illinoisans

Prescription help guide

Can't Afford Your Prescriptions in Illinois? Where to Get Help

Information checked October 20, 2026.

Here is where people in Illinois can get help paying for prescriptions, with free or low-cost options first. Programs and rules change, so check each program's own page or phone line before you apply.

State programs

Illinois AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)

Who it helps: People with HIV or AIDS who live in Illinois and have income not above 500% of the federal poverty level. You must re-apply every 12 months.

How to apply: Apply online: https://iladap.providecm.net/. Questions: helpline 800-825-3518.

Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP)

Who it helps: Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for people with Medicare and their caregivers. SHIP does not sell insurance.

How to apply: Call 1-800-252-8966 (711 TRS) or email Aging.Ship@illinois.gov. More information: https://ilaging.illinois.gov/ship/aboutship.html.

Charities, clinics and help applying

Community health centers (HRSA Health Center Program)

Who it helps: Anyone, insured or not. Primary medical and dental care on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay. Pharmacy services vary by center, so ask the center.

How to apply: Find a center: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/. No phone number is shown on the source page.

Insurance help

Illinois Medicaid (apply through ABE)

Who it helps: Illinois residents who qualify for Medicaid. People 65 and older must give information about their financial resources.

How to apply: Online: https://abe.illinois.gov. DHS Help Line 1-800-843-6154 (TTY 1-800-447-6404). In-person help through Get Covered Illinois: 1-866-311-1119. You can also send a paper form to a Family Community Resource Center.

Extra Help with Medicare Part D costs

Who it helps: People with Medicare who have limited income and resources. It lowers Part D deductibles and copays.

How to apply: Online: https://secure.ssa.gov/i1020/Ee001View.action. Phone +1 800-772-1213 (TTY +1 800-325-0778); ask for an appointment to apply for Part D Extra Help.

Get Covered Illinois (ACA Marketplace)

Who it helps: Illinois residents who need private health coverage. Financial help may be available.

How to apply: Website: GetCoveredIllinois.gov. Customer assistance 866-311-1119 (TTY 711). Open enrollment for the 2027 plan year runs from November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027.

Help from drug makers

NeedyMeds

Who it helps: Anyone seeking help with medicine costs. This nonprofit lists patient assistance programs, free and sliding-scale clinics, state programs and coupons.

How to apply: Website: https://www.needymeds.org/. Helpline 800-503-6897.

For everyday prices

For everyday prescriptions, compare pharmacy prices and use the free LowerScript card. Check your price and get the card on the Illinois card page. It is a discount, not insurance, and prices vary by pharmacy.

LowerScript is a private discount card, not a government program.

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