How to apply for Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program

Who it's for

Senior Gold is New Jersey's state-only middle-income senior prescription drug program for residents age 65+ (or disabled and Social Security-disability eligible) whose income exceeds PAAD's limit but falls within $10,000 above. Income limits (2026): $52,142-$62,142 single / $59,209-$69,209 married. Senior Gold pays 50% of the cost above a $15 copay per prescription, with an annual $2,000 (single) / $3,000 (married) out-of-pocket maximum after which the program pays in full. NO ASSET TEST. Apply via NJSave (same combined application as PAAD) at nj.gov/njsave or call 1-800-792-9745. Compare PA: PA's PACENET is the equivalent middle-income tier.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 65+ (or Social Security disability)
• Proof of New Jersey residency
• Proof of all household income (Medicare Part B premiums excluded)
• Medicare Part D enrollment proof

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 65+ (or Social Security disability), proof of New Jersey residency, proof of all household income (Medicare Part B premiums excluded) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm eligibility before applying. You must be a New Jersey resident age 65 or older — or disabled and Social Security-disability eligible — with income above PAAD's limit but within $10,000 above it. There is NO asset test for Senior Gold.
2. Gather your required documents: proof of age 65+ or Social Security disability status, proof of New Jersey residency, proof of all household income (Medicare Part B premiums are excluded from the income calculation), and proof of Medicare Part D enrollment.
3. Choose how to apply. You can apply online through NJSave or by phone. NJSave uses one combined application that covers Senior Gold, PAAD, Lifeline, Hearing Aid, and SCDB — so one submission can screen you for multiple programs at once.
4. Apply by phone if you prefer. Call the Division of Aging Services at 1-800-792-9745. A representative can walk you through the application.
5. Submit all required documents along with your application. Make sure every document is complete and legible to avoid delays.
6. Plan to renew every year. Senior Gold requires annual renewal to keep your benefits active. Watch for renewal notices from the Division of Aging Services and respond promptly.

What to expect: After submitting your application, the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services will review your information. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 1-800-792-9745 for an estimate on your specific case. If approved, Senior Gold will pay 50% of prescription costs above a $15 copay per prescription. Once you reach the annual out-of-pocket maximum — $2,000 for single applicants or $3,000 for married applicants — the program pays your covered prescription costs in full for the rest of that year. Because Senior Gold is the middle-income tier just above PAAD, the NJSave application will automatically consider you for both programs based on your income. Remember that benefits must be renewed annually, so keep an eye out for your renewal notice each year.

Renewals

annual