How to apply for Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program in New Jersey
New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services — administers Senior Gold, the middle-income tier above PAAD
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): $54,943-$64,943 single / $62,390-$72,390 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.
Senior Gold is the middle-income tier above PAAD. NO ASSET TEST. Functionally comparable to PA's PACENET. Apply via NJSave (one application covers PAAD/Senior Gold/Lifeline/Hearing Aid/SCDB).
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat 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
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-792-9745
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
- Confirm you meet the basic requirements: you must be a New Jersey resident age 65 or older (or disabled and Social Security-disability eligible), and your income must fall within the Senior Gold range — $54,943–$64,943 for single applicants or $62,390–$72,390 for married applicants (2026 limits). There is NO asset test.
- Gather your required documents: proof of age 65+ or Social Security disability status; proof of New Jersey residency; proof of all household income (note: Medicare Part B premiums are excluded from the income calculation); and proof of Medicare Part D enrollment.
- Choose how to apply. You can apply online through NJSave — the same combined application covers Senior Gold, PAAD, Lifeline, Hearing Aid, and SCDB programs — or you can apply by phone by calling 1-800-792-9745.
- Complete the NJSave application online or work through the application with a representative over the phone at 1-800-792-9745. Answer all questions about your income, residency, age or disability status, and Medicare coverage.
- Submit your application along with all required documents. Keep copies of everything you send in for your records.
- Watch for a decision notice from the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services. Processing times vary — contact the agency at 1-800-792-9745 for an estimate if needed.
What to expect: After submitting, the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services will review your application. If approved, Senior Gold will pay 50% of prescription costs above a $15 copay per prescription. Once your out-of-pocket costs reach $2,000 (single) or $3,000 (married) in a benefit year, the program pays in full for the rest of that year. Enrollment must be renewed annually, so watch for a renewal notice each year and respond promptly to avoid any gap in coverage. If you have questions at any point, call 1-800-792-9745.
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.
