How to apply for PAAD — Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled in New Jersey

Who it's for

PAAD is New Jersey's state-only senior prescription drug program for residents age 65+ (or disabled and Social Security-disability eligible). NJ residents pay $5 per generic / $7 per brand-name prescription. Income limits (2026): $54,943 single / $62,390 married. PAAD wraps around Medicare Part D — PAAD pays the deductible and the Part D copays above $5/$7. NO ASSET TEST. Compare PA's PACE: PAAD has a higher income ceiling than PA's PACE tier and lower than PA's PACENET tier. Apply via NJSave (NJ's combined application for PAAD/Lifeline/Senior Gold/Hearing Aid Assistance/SCDB) at nj.gov/njsave or call 1-800-792-9745.

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
• Social Security card

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about PAAD — Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled. 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. Gather your required documents: proof of age 65 or older (or proof of Social Security disability status), proof of New Jersey residency, proof of all household income (Medicare Part B premiums do not need to be included), your Medicare Part D enrollment proof, and your Social Security card.
2. Check that your income falls within the PAAD limits for 2026: $54,943 or less if single, or $62,390 or less if married. Note that PAAD has NO asset test — savings and property are not counted.
3. Choose how to apply: complete the NJSave application online, or call the PAAD helpline at 1-800-792-9745 to apply by phone. NJSave is New Jersey's combined application — one form also screens you for Senior Gold, Lifeline, Hearing Aid Assistance, and SCDB.
4. Submit your application with all required documents attached or ready to provide. If applying by phone, a representative can guide you through what to send in.
5. Keep a copy of your completed application and any confirmation number or reference information you receive after submitting.

What to expect: After submitting, the New Jersey Division of Aging Services will review your application and documents. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 1-800-792-9745 for an estimate on when to expect a decision. If approved, PAAD will wrap around your Medicare Part D plan — it pays your Part D deductible and covers copays above $5 for generics and $7 for brand-name drugs. PAAD coverage renews annually, so watch for a renewal notice each year and respond promptly to avoid any gap in your prescription benefits.

Renewals

annual