Could SeniorCare help cut your prescription costs? Some seniors in this state are finding out
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If you’re 65 or older, there may be a state-run program that can help reduce what you spend at the pharmacy—without requiring you to change your current health coverage.
It’s called SeniorCare, and for thousands of older adults, it’s made prescription medications more affordable and accessible.
While many are still learning about it, those who enroll are often surprised by how much they can save for just $30 a year.
Unlike some national programs tied to Medicare or private insurance, SeniorCare keeps things simple, straightforward, and flexible.
Here’s what you need to know if you're curious about how this program works—or wondering if you might be elig
SeniorCare is Wisconsin’s prescription drug assistance program, created specifically for older adults.
The program is operated by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and is designed to help residents age 65 and older afford both their routine medications and recommended vaccines.
It complements—not replaces—other health coverage options and currently serves over 91,000 participants monthly.
Eligibility is intentionally simple:
There are no income restrictions to apply, and you don’t need to wait for an open enrollment window.
Whether you have Medicare, private insurance, or no coverage at all, you can still apply—unless you're already enrolled in a full-benefit Medicaid plan like BadgerCare Plus.
Yes. SeniorCare is designed to work alongside other insurance coverage, including Medicare Part D.
It can help cover out-of-pocket costs that your main plan may not, acting as a helpful backup to reduce prescription expenses.
You can apply beginning the month you turn 65—or anytime afterward.
Once approved, your coverage begins the following month and remains active for one year.
Renewing annually is required, but the process is simple and well-supported by customer service staff if you need help.
The enrollment fee is just $30 per year.
That’s not per month—just $30 annually for a full year of coverage.
For many, that small fee opens the door to substantial savings on medications and vaccines.
Your savings will depend on your income.
SeniorCare uses a sliding scale based on annual income to determine how much you’ll pay for covered prescriptions.
Lower-income participants generally receive more assistance, often with dramatically reduced copays and lower out-of-pocket costs overall.
You can find current income limits on the Wisconsin DHS website.
SeniorCare covers most prescription medications and vaccines, including many commonly used for chronic conditions.
Some over-the-counter medications may also be covered if prescribed by a doctor.
The program helps fill in gaps that other insurance may not fully cover—making it especially valuable for seniors managing multiple medications.
Here are a few key reasons why thousands of seniors choose SeniorCare every year:
Getting started is easy:
If you have questions or need help applying, call SeniorCare Customer Service at 800-657-2038 or 711 (TTY).
The team is available to walk you through the process and answer any eligibility or coverage questions.
Prescription medications are a vital part of staying healthy, but they shouldn’t come with overwhelming costs.
If you or someone you know is eligible for SeniorCare, now’s the time to explore what it offers. A small annual fee could lead to big savings—and peace of mind.
Read next: Medicare price talks progress quietly as government targets costly prescriptions
If you’re already enrolled, we’d love to hear your story. Has it helped you manage prescription costs or made getting vaccines more affordable? Your experience could help someone else in your community get the support they need.
It’s called SeniorCare, and for thousands of older adults, it’s made prescription medications more affordable and accessible.
While many are still learning about it, those who enroll are often surprised by how much they can save for just $30 a year.
Unlike some national programs tied to Medicare or private insurance, SeniorCare keeps things simple, straightforward, and flexible.
Here’s what you need to know if you're curious about how this program works—or wondering if you might be elig
SeniorCare offers affordable prescription coverage and vaccine support for adults 65 and older—without the complexity of traditional insurance plans. Image Source: Pexels / Kampus Production.
What is SeniorCare?
SeniorCare is Wisconsin’s prescription drug assistance program, created specifically for older adults.
The program is operated by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and is designed to help residents age 65 and older afford both their routine medications and recommended vaccines.
It complements—not replaces—other health coverage options and currently serves over 91,000 participants monthly.
Who qualifies for SeniorCare?
Eligibility is intentionally simple:
- You must be 65 or older
- A Wisconsin resident
- A US citizen or qualifying immigrant
There are no income restrictions to apply, and you don’t need to wait for an open enrollment window.
Whether you have Medicare, private insurance, or no coverage at all, you can still apply—unless you're already enrolled in a full-benefit Medicaid plan like BadgerCare Plus.
Also read: This pharmacy tip slashed this woman's prescription bill to $45—find out how!
Can it work with other insurance?
Yes. SeniorCare is designed to work alongside other insurance coverage, including Medicare Part D.
It can help cover out-of-pocket costs that your main plan may not, acting as a helpful backup to reduce prescription expenses.
When and how to enroll
You can apply beginning the month you turn 65—or anytime afterward.
Once approved, your coverage begins the following month and remains active for one year.
Renewing annually is required, but the process is simple and well-supported by customer service staff if you need help.
Also read: A new bill could save 700,000 seniors from lifelong Medicare penalties—here’s what’s at stake
What does it cost?
The enrollment fee is just $30 per year.
That’s not per month—just $30 annually for a full year of coverage.
For many, that small fee opens the door to substantial savings on medications and vaccines.
How much could you save?
Your savings will depend on your income.
SeniorCare uses a sliding scale based on annual income to determine how much you’ll pay for covered prescriptions.
Lower-income participants generally receive more assistance, often with dramatically reduced copays and lower out-of-pocket costs overall.
You can find current income limits on the Wisconsin DHS website.
Also read: Costco shopper shares “secret code” for cheaper meds—members say they’re stunned
What’s covered?
SeniorCare covers most prescription medications and vaccines, including many commonly used for chronic conditions.
Some over-the-counter medications may also be covered if prescribed by a doctor.
The program helps fill in gaps that other insurance may not fully cover—making it especially valuable for seniors managing multiple medications.
Why consider SeniorCare?
Here are a few key reasons why thousands of seniors choose SeniorCare every year:
- Simplicity: No confusing “donut holes” or multiple coverage tiers like in Medicare Part D.
- Flexibility: Works with most existing insurance plans.
- Affordability: Low annual fee and income-based savings.
- Reliability: Administered by the Wisconsin DHS and trusted by thousands statewide.
Also read: Is America taking too much medicine—and paying the price?
How to apply
Getting started is easy:
- Confirm eligibility: Must be 65 or older, and a Wisconsin resident.
- Gather documents: Proof of age, residency, and income.
- Download or request the application: Visit the DHS website or ask for a copy by mail.
- Pay the $30 fee: This covers your annual enrollment.
- Wait for approval: Your benefits begin the month after your application is submitted.
Where to get help
If you have questions or need help applying, call SeniorCare Customer Service at 800-657-2038 or 711 (TTY).
The team is available to walk you through the process and answer any eligibility or coverage questions.
Prescription medications are a vital part of staying healthy, but they shouldn’t come with overwhelming costs.
If you or someone you know is eligible for SeniorCare, now’s the time to explore what it offers. A small annual fee could lead to big savings—and peace of mind.
Read next: Medicare price talks progress quietly as government targets costly prescriptions
If you’re already enrolled, we’d love to hear your story. Has it helped you manage prescription costs or made getting vaccines more affordable? Your experience could help someone else in your community get the support they need.
