Tecfidera

Indicated For

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), Active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

About This Medication

# How to Get Tecfidera Free or at Low Cost Through the Biogen Patient Assistance Program ## Who Qualifies for the Biogen Patient Assistance Program? If you have been prescribed Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) and cannot afford it, you may qualify to receive it at no cost through the **Biogen Patient Assistance Program**. This program is designed specifically for patients who face financial hardship and lack adequate insurance coverage for their medication. For a single-person household, the maximum annual income allowed is **$75,300**. To be eligible, you must be either uninsured or meet specific underinsured criteria — meaning your current insurance does not adequately cover Tecfidera or leaves you with out-of-pocket costs that create a genuine financial burden. Biogen reviews each application individually and considers your full financial picture, so it is worth applying even if you are unsure whether you meet the requirements. --- ## About Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) Tecfidera is a prescription oral medication manufactured by Biogen. It is approved to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) in adults. Tecfidera belongs to a drug class called nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activators. Without insurance or financial assistance, Tecfidera can cost several thousand dollars per month, making it out of reach for many patients. This high price is common among specialty medications used to treat complex neurological conditions. The Biogen Patient Assistance Program exists to help remove that cost barrier for patients who qualify based on income and insurance status. --- ## Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown Biogen sets income limits based on **500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, adjusted for your household size. The table below shows the maximum annual income allowed for each household size: | Household Size | Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | $75,300 | | 2 persons | $102,200 | | 3 persons | $129,100 | | 4 persons | $156,000 | When you apply, Biogen will typically ask you to verify your income using your most recent federal tax return, a W-2 form, or three months of recent pay stubs. The program evaluates income based on your full household, not just your individual earnings, so be prepared to document the income of everyone living in your home. If your income is above the limit for your household size, you may not qualify for the full free-medication benefit. However, Biogen does evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis and considers financial hardship. If you have unusually high medical costs or other significant expenses, it is still worth submitting an application or calling Biogen directly at **(800) 456-2255** to discuss your situation. There is no strict cutoff for hardship exceptions — Biogen reviews each case individually. --- ## Insurance Requirements Explained Your insurance status plays a major role in whether you qualify. Here is how different situations are handled: - **If you are uninsured:** You are likely the strongest candidate for this program. Biogen designed it primarily for patients who have no insurance coverage at all. You may qualify to receive Tecfidera at no cost. - **If you have Medicare Part D:** Most manufacturer patient assistance programs, including this one, cannot provide free medication to Medicare beneficiaries due to federal regulations. If you have Medicare Part D, you should contact Biogen directly at **(800) 456-2255** to ask about any available exceptions or alternative programs. - **If you have private insurance that covers less than 50% of the cost:** You may meet the "underinsured" criteria. Biogen evaluates whether your out-of-pocket costs create a financial hardship. If your coverage is minimal or your cost-sharing is very high, you may still qualify for assistance. - **If you have Medicaid:** Medicaid typically covers Tecfidera for eligible patients. If Medicaid is covering your prescription, you likely do not need this program. However, if Medicaid has denied coverage or placed restrictions on your access, contact Biogen to discuss your options. --- ## Step-by-Step: How to Apply Follow these steps to apply for the Biogen Patient Assistance Program: 1. **Gather your documents.** You will need a completed and signed application form, proof of household income (tax return, W-2, or three months of pay stubs), and a valid prescription for Tecfidera from your doctor. 2. **Get the application form.** Download the form or start your application online at [https://www.biogensupportservices.com/](https://www.biogensupportservices.com/). You can also call **(800) 456-2255** to request a paper application or get help completing the form over the phone. 3. **Have your doctor sign the application.** Most patient assistance programs require a section completed and signed by your prescribing physician. Ask your doctor's office to complete their portion before you submit. 4. **Submit your application.** You can apply online at the link above, by phone at **(800) 456-2255**, or by fax at **(800) 463-5407**. Choose the method that is easiest for you. 5. **Wait for a decision.** Biogen typically processes applications within **1 to 2 business days** after receiving all required documents. 6. **Receive your confirmation.** Once approved, Biogen will notify you (and often your prescriber) of your acceptance into the program. 7. **Receive your medication.** Tecfidera will be shipped directly to your home address on file. --- ## What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery After you submit a complete application with all required documents, Biogen typically processes it within **1 to 2 business days**. Once approved, your medication will be **shipped directly to your home** — you do not need to pick it up at a pharmacy or your doctor's office. No action is needed on your part at delivery beyond being available to receive the package. Your approval is valid for one year. Before the year ends, you will need to **reauthorize your enrollment annually** by submitting updated income documentation and a renewed prescription. Biogen will typically notify you when reauthorization is due, but it is a good idea to track your renewal date yourself to avoid any gap in medication. --- ## Alternatives If You Don't Qualify If you do not qualify for the Biogen Patient Assistance Program, you still have options: 1. **Biosimilar alternatives:** A generic version of dimethyl fumarate is available and may be significantly less expensive than brand-name Tecfidera. Ask your doctor whether a dimethyl fumarate generic is appropriate for your treatment plan. 2. **Manufacturer savings card for insured patients:** If you have commercial insurance, Biogen offers a co-pay savings program for Tecfidera. You can learn more and enroll at [https://www.tecfidera.com/en_us/home/cost-savings/copay-program.html](https://www.tecfidera.com/en_us/home/cost-savings/copay-program.html). This program is not available to Medicare or Medicaid patients. 3. **State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs):** Many states run their own drug assistance programs, especially for residents with chronic conditions. Check with your state health department or your state's aging and disability services office to find out what is available where you live. 4. **NeedyMeds.org:** This free online database at [https://www.needymeds.org](https://www.needymeds.org) lists patient assistance programs, disease-specific funds, and other resources that may help cover your medication costs. --- > *This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Eligibility determinations are made solely by Biogen. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.biogenpatientassistance.com](https://www.biogenpatientassistance.com) before applying.* ---

Program information last verified: February 27, 2026