Important Notice: The State of Illinois has cancelled funding for both Cares Rx Programs as of July 2012. We continue to maintain this webpage so that Illinois residents become aware of these changes and with the hope that the program may be re-instated.
Other financial assistance is available for medications. Read more.
Program Description
The state of Illinois has two programs designed to provide financial assistance to the elderly to help them purchase their prescription drugs. Rx Basic is for individuals without Medicare insurance and the Rx Plus is designed for those on Medicare. Rx Plus is known as a Medicare wraparound program which means it complements those benefits provided by Medicare Part D making it a requirement that the participant have a Part D plan. When buying medications, Medicare is the first payer and then Rx Plus pays for what the Part D plan does not.
Eligibility Guidelines
To be eligible for these programs, seniors must meet the following criteria:
- Be an Illinois resident
- Aged 65 or older
- Rx Basic income limit for is $27,610 for an individual and $36,635 for a couple.
- Rx Plus income limit for is $26,917 for an individual and $36,212 for a couple.
Benefits and Services
This program covers all prescription drug costs, except for the very low co-payments, up to $1,750 annually. Beyond $1,750, Illinois Cares Rx will pay for 80% of drug costs. For the Rx Plus program that threshold is $2,830. There are no costs to enroll in this program.
How to Apply / Learn More
Visit the Illinois Cares Rx website or call their toll free number at (800) 624-2459.
