Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled Program (PAAD)

Prescription drugs can be expensive, especially if you live on a limited income. If you live in New Jersey, the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) program may help you pay less for the medications you need.

Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled Program (PAAD): Quick Facts

What is it?

A program in New Jersey that helps eligible people lower the cost of their prescription drugs.

Who qualifies?

New Jersey residents age 65 or older, or ages 18–64 who receive Social Security Disability benefits, who meet the income requirements.

What does it cover?

$5 for covered generic drugs and $7 for covered brand-name drugs

How do I apply?

You can apply online or by mail.

What is the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged & Disabled (PAAD) program?

The Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) program is a New Jersey state program that helps eligible older adults and people with disabilities lower the cost of their prescription drugs. If you qualify, you’ll pay $5 for each generic drug and $7 for each brand-name drug that PAAD covers. In some cases, you may pay even less for generics if your Medicare drug plan charges less than $5. PAAD only covers drugs approved by the FDA.

PAAD does not cover:

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Drugs purchased outside the state of New Jersey

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Drugs from manufacturers that do not participate in the state's rebate program

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Diabetic testing supplies (like test strips and lancets)

Note: If you have other insurance, such as Medicare Part B, that pays for diabetic testing supplies, the pharmacy must bill that insurance plan instead—PAAD will not pay for them.

Am I eligible for the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged & Disabled program?

To get help from the PAAD program, there are some rules you must meet. You may be eligible if:

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You live in New Jersey.

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You are 65 or older, or between 18 and 64 and receive Social Security Disability (Title II) benefits.

Note: You must have Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage to receive PAAD. PAAD can pay the monthly premium for certain Part D plans that meet the program’s cost limits. You’ll generally pay $5 for covered generic drugs and $7 for covered brand-name drugs, while Medicare and PAAD cover the remaining costs.

If your plan does not cover a medication you need, you may need to switch to a plan that does or ask your doctor for an exception. If you have Medicare Advantage, your plan must include drug coverage. PAAD can help pay part of your plan’s drug premium, up to a set amount.

What is the income limit for PAAD?

To qualify for PAAD, your 2026 income must be less than $54,943 if you are single or $62,390 if you are married. These limits can change each year, so it’s a good idea to check the income limits before you apply.

How do I apply for the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged & Disabled program?

There are a few ways to apply for PAAD—choose the one that’s easiest for you.

Apply Online

To apply for PAAD online, go to the NJSaves website and click “Start New Application.” You will be guided through the application and can submit it online once completed.

Apply by Mail

To apply by mail, you must first download and print the paper application. You can find it here:

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PAAD Application

Fill out the application and send it with required documents to:

PAAD

Revenue Processing Center

P.O. Box 637

Trenton, NJ 08646

What if I need help applying to the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged & Disabled program?

If you need help applying for PAAD or have questions about this or other benefit programs, you can call the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services, at 866-657-2835 to speak with an agent. You can contact them online by sending a message through their contact form.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between PAAD and Senior Gold?

PAAD and Senior Gold are both programs that help New Jersey residents pay less for prescription drugs, but PAAD is designed for people with lower incomes and provides greater savings on prescription costs. With PAAD, you pay $5 for generic drugs and $7 for brand-name drugs. Senior Gold requires you to pay $15 plus 50% of the remaining cost until you reach the program’s out-of-pocket limit. After that, the copay is $15 per prescription.

What medications are covered by PAAD in New Jersey?

PAAD covers most FDA-approved prescription drugs, including insulin and medicines used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. It generally does not cover Medicare Part D excluded drugs, diabetic testing supplies, medications purchased outside New Jersey, or drugs from non-participating manufacturers.

Do I have to reapply for PAAD every year?

Most people who receive PAAD need to renew their benefits every two years. However, some people must renew every year. Your renewal notice will tell you when it’s time to renew.