Otezla (apremilast)
Patient Assistance Program Guide — Amgen Safety Net Foundation
Do You Qualify?
Income
Up to $75,300 for a single person
Insurance
Uninsured, underinsured (limited coverage), or Medicare Part D patients meeting specific financial criteria; commercial insurance patients are typically directed to the copay program.
Residency
U.S. resident or resident of U.S. territories with valid address
Income Limits (500% FPL)
Calculated based on 500% FPL for 2025; thresholds may be lower or higher depending on state-specific FPL or household size.
Based on 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
# How to Get Otezla Free or at Low Cost Through the Amgen Safety Net Foundation
Who Qualifies for the Amgen Safety Net Foundation?
If you need Otezla (apremilast) but cannot afford it, you may be able to get it at no cost through the Amgen Safety Net Foundation. This is Amgen's patient assistance program for people who meet income and insurance requirements. For a single-person household, your annual income must be at or below $75,300 to qualify. In general, this program is designed for people who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicare Part D — not for people who have commercial insurance that covers Otezla. If you have private insurance, you are typically directed to a separate savings card program instead. Meeting the income limit does not guarantee approval, but most patients who fall within the guidelines and submit complete paperwork may qualify.
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About Otezla (apremilast)
Otezla (apremilast) is a prescription medication made by Amgen. It is FDA-approved to treat adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and oral ulcers associated with Behçet's Disease. Otezla belongs to a drug class called PDE4 inhibitors and is taken as an oral tablet. Without insurance or financial assistance, Otezla can cost several thousand dollars per month, making it out of reach for many patients. Because there are currently no FDA-approved biosimilar versions of Otezla available, patients do not have a lower-cost generic alternative to fall back on, which makes patient assistance programs like the Amgen Safety Net Foundation especially important.
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Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown
The Amgen Safety Net Foundation sets income limits based on 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for 2025. The limits increase with household size, as shown below:
| Household Size | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $75,300 |
| 2 persons | $102,200 |
| 3 persons | $129,100 |
| 4 persons | $156,000 |
Household size includes everyone who lives with you and depends on your household income. If your household has more than four people, the income limit will be higher — contact the program directly to confirm the threshold for your situation.
Your income is typically verified using your most recent federal tax return (Form 1040), your W-2 forms, or three months of recent pay stubs. If you are self-employed or have variable income, you may need to provide additional documentation.
If your income is above the limit, you will not automatically qualify for free medication through this program. However, you should still explore the Otezla savings card (for insured patients) or other assistance options listed later in this guide. Some patients who are initially above the limit may qualify in a future year if their financial situation changes.
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Insurance Requirements Explained
Your insurance status plays a major role in determining which Otezla assistance program you qualify for:
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Step-by-Step: How to Apply
1. Check your eligibility first. Review the income table and insurance requirements above. If you think you may qualify, proceed with the steps below.
2. Gather your documents. You will need:
- A completed application form with both your signature and your prescriber's signature
- Proof of income (most recent Form 1040, W-2, or three months of pay stubs)
- A valid prescription for Otezla from your doctor
3. Choose your application method. You have several options:
- Apply online at https://www.amgensafetynetfoundation.com/
- Call the program at (888) 762-6436 to apply by phone or request a paper application
- Fax your completed paper application and documents to (866) 549-7239
4. Your doctor's office may need to be involved. The application requires your prescriber's signature. Many patients find it easiest to have their doctor's office submit the application on their behalf, especially if faxing.
5. Submit your complete application. Incomplete applications can cause delays. Double-check that all forms are signed and all income documents are included before submitting.
6. Wait for a decision. The Amgen Safety Net Foundation typically completes its review within 2 business days of receiving a complete application.
7. More information is available on the official program page at https://www.otezla.com/financial-support.
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What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery
Once your application is reviewed — typically within 2 business days — you or your doctor's office will be notified of the decision. If approved, your Otezla will be shipped directly to your home address. You do not need to go to a pharmacy or pick anything up. Make sure your mailing address is clearly listed on the application.
Your approval is not permanent. The Amgen Safety Net Foundation requires annual reauthorization, meaning you will need to reapply and resubmit proof of income once a year to continue receiving the medication. You should expect a reminder before your approval expires, but it is a good idea to track your renewal date yourself so there is no gap in your supply.
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Alternatives If You Don't Qualify
If you do not meet the requirements for the Amgen Safety Net Foundation, consider these options:
1. Biosimilar alternatives: There are currently no FDA-approved biosimilars for Otezla, so a lower-cost generic is not available at this time.
2. Otezla Copay Card (for insured patients): If you have commercial insurance, you may qualify for the Otezla savings card, which can reduce your out-of-pocket costs. You can learn more and enroll at https://www.otezla.com/support/copay-card.
3. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs): Many states offer their own drug assistance programs, particularly for Medicare enrollees. Eligibility and benefits vary by state. Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or your state's department of aging for details.
4. NeedyMeds.org: This free, independent database lists hundreds of assistance programs by drug name, condition, or state. Visit https://www.needymeds.org to search for additional options that may be available to you.
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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 Amgen. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.otezla.com/financial-support](https://www.otezla.com/financial-support) 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)
Amgen 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
The program typically completes its review within 2 business days of receiving a complete application. Make sure all required documents — including your signed application, proof of income, and valid prescription — are submitted together to avoid delays.
Yes. Unlike many manufacturer assistance programs, the Amgen Safety Net Foundation does accept Medicare Part D patients who meet the income requirements. You should still verify your eligibility when you apply, as individual plan details may affect your status.
If you are approved, Otezla is shipped directly to your home. You do not need to visit a pharmacy or present any paperwork at a pickup location.
Yes. The Amgen Safety Net Foundation requires annual reauthorization. Each year, you will need to submit an updated application with current proof of income to continue receiving your medication. Watch for a renewal notice before your approval period ends.
If you have commercial insurance, you are typically directed to the Otezla Copay Card rather than the Safety Net Foundation. The copay card can lower your out-of-pocket cost under your existing insurance plan. You can enroll at https://www.otezla.com/support/copay-card.
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