Prescription savings guide
Prescription Help for the Uninsured in South Carolina
Last updated September 4, 2026 · Reviewed by the LowerScript editorial team · Español
About 11.0% of South Carolinians under 65 have no health insurance (Census ACS, 2020–2024). South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid, which leaves a Medicaid coverage gap: some adults earn too much to qualify for South Carolina's non-expanded Medicaid but too little to qualify for ACA Marketplace subsidies (KFF; healthinsurance.org). If you're uninsured, a free prescription discount card, checking your Medicaid eligibility, and comparing pharmacy cash prices can each lower what you pay for medications, often without any coverage at all.
Start here
Get a free card and compare your medication's cash price at nearby pharmacies, then fill where it's cheapest.
For expensive drugs
Check manufacturer patient-assistance programs and nonprofits. See South Carolina assistance programs.
Check your Medicaid eligibility
South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Current eligibility covers children up to 213% of the federal poverty level, parents or caretaker relatives with dependent children up to 100% FPL, and pregnant women up to 199% FPL — and non-disabled adults without dependent children do not qualify regardless of income (healthinsurance.org). Adults below the poverty line who don't qualify for Medicaid also can't get ACA Marketplace subsidies, which start at 100% FPL — that is the Medicaid coverage gap (KFF). If you're not sure whether you qualify, SC Healthy Connections Medicaid at scdhhs.gov is the place to check current rules. If you don't qualify for Medicaid, HealthCare.gov is where to check ACA Marketplace options.
Local resources
South Carolina's 211 helpline can point you to community health centers and local support.
Frequently asked questions
How can I afford medication without insurance in South Carolina?
Use a free discount card, choose generics, compare pharmacies, and check assistance programs.
Is a discount card enough on its own?
For many common drugs, yes. For expensive brand drugs, combine it with assistance programs.
Where do I get a free card?
Download the free LowerScript card on this site — no sign-up.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimates; KFF, Status of State Medicaid Expansion Decisions; healthinsurance.org, Medicaid eligibility and enrollment in South Carolina. This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your medications. LowerScript is a discount program, not insurance.
Ready to save? Get your free South Carolina discount card or check a medication price.
Get your free cardMore guides: What Is a Prescription Discount Card? · How to Use a Prescription Discount Card · Can You Use a Discount Card With Medicare? · Insurance vs Cash Price: Which Is Cheaper? | All savings guides · Drug prices