Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate)
Patient Assistance Program Guide — Biogen Patient Assistance Program
Do You Qualify?
Income
Up to $75,300 for a single person
Insurance
Must be uninsured or meet specific underinsured criteria (e.g., high out-of-pocket costs or lack of coverage for the drug).
Residency
U.S. resident with valid address
Income Limits (500% FPL)
Calculations based on 500% FPL; Biogen evaluates eligibility based on household size and financial hardship.
Based on 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
# 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.
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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.
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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.
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Insurance Requirements Explained
Your insurance status plays a major role in whether you qualify. 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 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/. 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.
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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.
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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. 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 lists patient assistance programs, disease-specific funds, and other resources that may help cover your medication costs.
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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
Biosimilar / Generic Alternatives
FDA-approved alternatives to Tecfidera: dimethyl fumarate. Ask your prescriber if one of these is clinically appropriate for your condition.
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 1 to 2 business days. Make sure you submit all required documents — including your signed application, proof of income, and a valid prescription — to avoid delays.
If you are approved, Tecfidera will be shipped directly to your home address. You do not need to visit a pharmacy or your doctor's office to receive it.
Yes. The Biogen Patient Assistance Program also considers patients who are underinsured — meaning their insurance does not adequately cover Tecfidera or leaves them with costs that create financial hardship. You may still qualify even if you have some insurance coverage.
You will need to reauthorize your enrollment each year. This typically involves submitting updated proof of income and a renewed prescription from your doctor. It is a good idea to track your renewal date so there is no gap in receiving your medication.
Biogen evaluates applications on a case-by-case basis and considers financial hardship. If your income is close to the limit or you have high medical expenses, it is still worth applying or calling Biogen at (800) 456-2255 to discuss your situation.
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