Spinraza (nusinersen)
Patient Assistance Program Guide — Biogen Support Services - Spinraza Patient Assistance Program
Do You Qualify?
Income
Up to $90,360 for a single person
Insurance
Uninsured, underinsured, or those whose insurance does not provide coverage for Spinraza; commercial patients may use the Co-Pay program.
Residency
Must reside in the United States or its territories
Income Limits (600% FPL)
Calculated at 600% FPL; Biogen Support Services typically assesses eligibility based on a combination of income and household expenses for SMA treatments.
Based on 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
# Biogen Support Services – Spinraza Patient Assistance Program: A Complete Guide
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Who Qualifies for the Biogen Support Services – Spinraza Patient Assistance Program?
If you or your child has been prescribed Spinraza (nusinersen) and you are struggling to afford it, the Biogen Support Services – Spinraza Patient Assistance Program may be able to provide the medication at no cost or reduced cost. For a single-person household, the maximum annual income allowed is $90,360. To qualify for the free medication program, you generally need to be uninsured, underinsured, or have insurance that does not cover Spinraza. If you have commercial insurance that does cover Spinraza, you may still be able to lower your out-of-pocket costs through a separate Co-Pay program. Eligibility is reviewed by Biogen on a case-by-case basis, and income alone does not always determine the final decision.
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About Spinraza (nusinersen)
Spinraza (nusinersen) is a prescription medication manufactured by Biogen. It is used to treat Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition that affects muscle strength and movement. Spinraza belongs to a drug class called antisense oligonucleotides and was the first FDA-approved treatment specifically for SMA. Because SMA is a rare disease and the treatment requires specialized administration and ongoing dosing, Spinraza carries a very high list price — often making it one of the most expensive medications in the United States without insurance or assistance. Patient assistance programs exist specifically to help patients access treatments like this when cost would otherwise be a barrier.
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Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown
The Biogen Support Services program uses income thresholds set at approximately 600% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The table below shows the maximum annual household income allowed based on household size:
| Household Size | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $90,360 |
| 2 persons | $122,640 |
| 3 persons | $154,920 |
| 4 persons | $187,200 |
For households larger than four people, income limits are typically higher — you should contact Biogen Support Services directly at (844) 477-4672 to ask about your specific situation.
Income is generally verified using your most recent federal tax return, W-2 forms, or three months of recent pay stubs. If your income is above these thresholds, you may not qualify for the free medication program. However, Biogen typically evaluates applications using a combination of income and household expenses, meaning that high out-of-pocket medical costs could still work in your favor. If you are above the limit, do not assume you are automatically disqualified — it is worth applying or calling to discuss your circumstances. The Co-Pay program may also be available if you have commercial insurance.
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Insurance Requirements Explained
Your insurance status plays a major role in which part of the program applies to you. Here is how different situations are handled:
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Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Biogen Support Services – Spinraza Patient Assistance Program:
1. Visit the program website. Go to https://www.spinraza.com/en_us/home/support-services.html to review program information and access the enrollment form.
2. Gather your required documents before starting your application:
- Completed Enrollment Form (must be signed by both you and your prescribing doctor)
- Proof of household income (most recent tax return, W-2, or three months of pay stubs)
- Prescription information from your doctor
- Insurance cards, if you have any insurance
3. Choose how to apply. You may apply online through the website above, call (844) 477-4672 to speak with a program specialist, or fax your completed paperwork to (800) 456-2731.
4. Your prescriber must sign the enrollment form. Coordinate with your doctor's office before submitting — their participation is required.
5. Submit your application using your preferred method. If faxing, confirm receipt by calling the program phone number.
6. Wait for a determination. Processing typically takes 2–3 business days after Biogen receives your complete application.
7. Follow up if needed. If you have not heard back after three business days, call (844) 477-4672 to check on your application status.
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What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery
Once Biogen receives your complete application, a decision is typically made within 2–3 business days. You and your prescriber will be notified of the approval. Spinraza is shipped directly to your prescriber's office, not to your home, because it must be administered by a healthcare professional. You do not need to pick up or arrange delivery yourself — your doctor's office coordinates that process.
Approval through this program is not permanent. You will need to reauthorize your enrollment once a year to continue receiving the medication at no cost. Biogen will typically reach out near your renewal date, but it is a good idea to track your approval date and follow up proactively to avoid any gap in treatment.
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Alternatives If You Don't Qualify
If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for the Patient Assistance Program, you still have options:
1. Biosimilars: There are currently no FDA-approved biosimilar alternatives to Spinraza, so this option is not available at this time.
2. Manufacturer Co-Pay savings card: If you have commercial insurance that covers Spinraza, Biogen offers a Co-Pay Program that may reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Learn more and enroll at https://www.spinraza.com/en_us/home/support-services/copay-program.html.
3. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs): Many states offer programs that help residents pay for high-cost medications, especially for rare diseases. Search for your state's program through your state health department website.
4. NeedyMeds.org: This free online database at https://www.needymeds.org lists hundreds of assistance programs by drug name, condition, and state. It is a helpful starting point if you are exploring multiple options.
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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 Biogen. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.biogenpatientassistance.com](https://www.biogenpatientassistance.com) 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)
Biogen 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
Biogen typically processes complete applications within 2–3 business days. Make sure your enrollment form is signed by both you and your prescriber, and that all income documents are included. Incomplete applications may take longer or be returned.
No. Spinraza is shipped directly to your prescriber's office, not to your home. This is because Spinraza must be administered by a trained healthcare provider and cannot be self-administered.
Yes. The program requires annual reauthorization to confirm that you still meet the eligibility criteria. Biogen will typically notify you when it is time to renew, but you should track your approval date to avoid any interruption in your medication supply.
Yes. If you have commercial insurance that covers Spinraza but leaves you with high out-of-pocket costs, you may qualify for the Biogen Co-Pay Program. You can learn more and apply at https://www.spinraza.com/en_us/home/support-services/copay-program.html.
You may still be worth applying. Biogen Support Services typically considers both income and household medical expenses when reviewing applications for SMA treatments. Contact them directly at (844) 477-4672 to discuss your situation before deciding not to apply.
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