The state of Maine offers two prescription assistance programs for its residents. Both programs provide financial assistance to participants, though they differ on the amount of assistance and the eligibility requirements. The Low Cost Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled Program (DEL) is more commonly referred to as the DEL Program. It is designed for disabled and elderly individuals with low incomes.
The Maine RX Plus Program is intended for low- to middle-income individuals and families of all ages. There are no costs to enroll in either of these programs.
Low-income seniors are 7x more likely to fail to adhere to their prescription regimens than younger adults.
To be eligible for the DEL Program, the following criteria must be met:
Eligibility for the Rx Plus Program only requires that you be a resident of Maine, any age, and meet certain financial criteria, as detailed in the “Financial Requirements” section below.
Income Limits
Applicants cannot have an income of more than 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For 2023, this works out to a maximum monthly income of $2,248 for single applicants, and $3,041 for married couples or two-person households.
There is one exception to this income rule. Applicants who spend a minimum of 40% of their income on unreimbursed direct medical expenses for prescription drugs and medications are allowed a higher income limit. As of 2023, this limit is 200% of the FPL, which equates to an annual income limit of $29,160 for a single applicant. For married couples or households with two people, the income limit is $39,432 a year.
Asset Limits
A single applicant can have liquid assets (cash, savings bonds, certificates of deposit, checking accounts, etc.) no greater than $50,000. Married applicants are permitted up to $75,000 in assets.
Income Limits
Maine residents with a monthly income of less than 350% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for Rx Plus. In 2023, for a single applicant, this limit is $4,253 per month. For a married couple living together, the monthly limit is $5,752.
Those with higher incomes may still be eligible if at least 5% of their income is spent on prescription drugs or 15% or more is spent on medical-related expenses.
Asset Limits
Unlike the DEL Program, the Rx Plus Program does not consider one’s assets.
The DEL Program pays up to 80% of a senior’s out-of-pocket drug costs after Medicare Part D or other insurance coverage. Eligible medications include those that treat Parkinson’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and many other conditions. Please note that there may be a co-payment of up to $2.
The Maine RX Plus Program offers discounts off the purchase price of brand name and generic drugs. For generic drugs, discounts are offered up to 60%, and for brand name drugs, discounts are offered up to 15%.
Maine residents can learn more about these programs or apply for assistance by contacting their local Area Agency on Aging. Maine's Department of Human Services also provides a brochure on the programs. Or an application can be downloaded here.
Maine has another program that provides assistance to the elderly, though not necessarily for medications. The Home Based Care Program can help families caring for aging loved ones at home.