Alecensa (alectinib)
Patient Assistance Program Guide — Genentech Patient Foundation
Do You Qualify?
Income
Up to $75,300 for a single person
Insurance
Uninsured, underinsured, or patients with government insurance (Medicare/Medicaid) who meet financial criteria and have been denied coverage.
Residency
U.S. resident with valid U.S. address
Income Limits (500% FPL)
Genentech generally uses a threshold of $150,000 for household income or 500% of FPL, whichever is more beneficial to the patient.
Based on 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
# Getting Alecensa (Alectinib) at No Cost Through the Genentech Patient Foundation
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Who Qualifies for the Genentech Patient Foundation?
If you have been prescribed Alecensa (alectinib) and are struggling to afford it, you may qualify to receive it at no cost through the Genentech Patient Foundation. This program provides free Alecensa directly to patients who meet income and insurance requirements. For a single-person household, the maximum annual income is $75,300, though Genentech generally applies a broader threshold of $150,000 or 500% of the Federal Poverty Level — whichever benefits you more. To be eligible, you must be uninsured, underinsured, or have government insurance such as Medicare or Medicaid and have been denied coverage for Alecensa.
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About Alecensa (Alectinib)
Alecensa (alectinib) is a prescription kinase inhibitor made by Genentech. It is FDA-approved to treat adults with ALK-positive metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). ALK-positive NSCLC is a specific subtype of lung cancer identified through biomarker testing. Alecensa is an oral capsule taken twice daily. Without insurance or financial assistance, Alecensa can cost thousands of dollars per month, making it out of reach for many patients. There are currently no FDA-approved biosimilar or generic versions of alectinib available, which means the brand-name drug is the only option and the full price applies without assistance.
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Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown
The Genentech Patient Foundation uses income thresholds based on household size. Here is how the limits break down:
| Household Size | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $75,300 |
| 2 persons | $102,200 |
| 3 persons | $129,100 |
| 4 persons | $156,000 |
However, Genentech typically applies a broader standard — up to $150,000 in household income or 500% of the Federal Poverty Level, whichever is more favorable to you. This means some patients whose income appears above the table limits may still qualify depending on household size and how income is calculated.
Income is generally verified using your most recent federal tax return, a W-2, or three months of recent pay stubs. If your income has changed recently — for example, due to job loss or reduced hours — pay stubs may give a more accurate picture than last year's tax return.
If you are above the income limits, you are not automatically disqualified. Genentech reviews applications individually, and household size flexibility may work in your favor. You are encouraged to apply even if you are unsure whether you qualify.
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Insurance Requirements Explained
Your insurance situation plays a key role in whether you qualify. Here is how different scenarios are handled:
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Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for free Alecensa through the Genentech Patient Foundation:
1. Gather your documents before you start. You will need: a completed and signed application form, proof of income (most recent federal tax return, W-2, or three months of pay stubs), and a valid prescription for Alecensa from your doctor.
2. Choose your application method. You have several options:
- Apply online at https://www.genentechpatientfoundation.com — this is typically the fastest method.
- Call (888) 941-3331 to apply by phone or request a paper application.
- Fax a completed paper application and supporting documents to (877) 231-5077.
3. Complete the application form. The form requires your personal information, household income details, insurance status, and your prescribing physician's information. Your doctor or their office staff may need to complete a portion of the form.
4. Submit all required documents together. Incomplete applications take longer to process. Make sure your proof of income and prescription are included.
5. Wait for a decision. Processing typically takes 2 to 3 business days after a complete application is received.
6. Receive confirmation. If approved, you and your prescriber will be notified. You do not need to visit a pharmacy — Alecensa will be shipped directly to your home.
7. For help at any step, call the Foundation at (888) 941-3331. Representatives can answer questions and help you complete your application.
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What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery
Once you submit a complete application, most decisions are made within 2 to 3 business days. You and your prescribing doctor will typically receive confirmation of approval. If approved, Alecensa is shipped directly to your home address — you do not need to pick it up at a pharmacy or your doctor's office. You will not need to pay at the time of delivery.
Your enrollment in the program is not permanent. Annual reauthorization is required, meaning you will need to reapply and confirm that you still meet income and insurance eligibility criteria each year. You should begin the renewal process before your current approval period ends to avoid any gap in your medication supply.
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Alternatives If You Don't Qualify
If you do not qualify for the Genentech Patient Foundation, there are other options to explore:
1. Biosimilars or generics: There are currently no FDA-approved biosimilars or generic versions of alectinib. This option is not available at this time.
2. Genentech co-pay savings card (for insured patients): If you have commercial (private) insurance, you may be eligible for a co-pay assistance card that reduces your out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy. You can learn more and enroll at https://www.alecensa.com/financial-support/co-pay-card.html. This card is generally not available for patients with Medicare or Medicaid.
3. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAP): Many states offer programs that help residents pay for prescription drugs, particularly for older adults or those with disabilities. Eligibility and benefits vary by state. Contact your state's department of health or aging to ask what programs may be available to you.
4. NeedyMeds.org: This free, independent database lists hundreds of patient assistance programs, co-pay programs, and drug discount options. Visit https://www.needymeds.org or call (800) 503-6897 to search for additional help.
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*This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Eligibility determinations are made solely by Genentech. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.genentech-access.com/patient/brands/alecensa.html](https://www.genentech-access.com/patient/brands/alecensa.html) before applying.*
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Documents You'll Need
If You Don't Qualify for the Assistance Program
Manufacturer Savings Card (for insured patients)
Genentech offers a savings card that may reduce your out-of-pocket cost if you have commercial insurance. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist for current savings card details.
Common Questions
Once Genentech receives a complete application with all required documents, a decision is typically made within 2 to 3 business days. Incomplete applications may take longer, so make sure your proof of income and prescription are included when you submit.
If you are approved, Alecensa is shipped directly to your home address. You do not need to go to a pharmacy or your doctor's office to receive it, and there is no charge at the time of delivery.
Yes. The Genentech Patient Foundation requires annual reauthorization. Each year, you will need to confirm that you still meet the income and insurance eligibility requirements. It is a good idea to start the renewal process before your current approval expires to avoid any interruption in your supply of Alecensa.
Yes, Medicare patients may qualify if they meet the financial eligibility criteria and their Part D plan has denied coverage for Alecensa or if their out-of-pocket costs remain unaffordable. You can call (888) 941-3331 to discuss your specific situation with a program representative.
You may still qualify. Genentech generally applies a threshold of up to $150,000 in annual household income or 500% of the Federal Poverty Level, whichever is more favorable to you. Household size is also taken into account. If you are unsure, it is worth applying or calling (888) 941-3331 to ask before assuming you are ineligible.
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