Insulin Safety Net Program helps Minnesotans access affordable insulin

Interested individuals should visit MNinsulin.org to see if they qualify

ST. PAUL, Minn.—The Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program was created to help Minnesotans who face difficulty affording their insulin.  The program is made up of two parts. The urgent need program and the continuing need program.

1. The urgent need program – eligible Minnesotans can receive a 30-day supply of insulin immediately at their pharmacy for no more than $35.

2. The continuing need program – eligible Minnesotans can receive up to a year supply of insulin for no more than $50 per 90-day refill.

To be eligible for the urgent need program you must—

  • Live in Minnesota.
  • Have an urgent need for insulin.
  • Have a current prescription for insulin.
  • Pay more than $75 each month for your insulin.
  • Not be enrolled in Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare.

Applicants must present identification proving Minnesota residency in the form of a valid Minnesota identification card, driver’s license or permit, or tribal-issued identification. If you are a minor under the age of 18, your parent or legal guardian must provide the pharmacy with proof of residency.

How to apply for the urgent need program—

1. Visit MNinsulin.org and complete the application form by downloading this PDF file to your computer. Open the file and follow the instructions.
If you are not able to print or download this form, please ask your pharmacist for the “urgent need insulin application.”

2. Take your completed application form to your pharmacy with valid identification and insulin prescription.

3. If you qualify for the urgent need program, you can receive your insulin immediately, but you will need to pay up to a $35 co-pay to receive your 30-day supply.

Get free help enrolling in the continuing need program—

You can get help applying for the continuing need program from a MNsure-certified navigator. Navigators are experts at local, trusted community organizations that can help you apply for one of the insulin manufacturer’s programs. Go to MNinsulin.org to search for a navigator in your area.

See continuing need FAQ for answers to common questions about the continuing need program.

The Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program is implemented by MNsure, the state’s health insurance marketplace, and the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy.

MNsure is Minnesota’s health insurance marketplace where individuals and families can shop, compare and choose health insurance coverage that meets their needs. MNsure is the only place you can apply for financial help to lower the cost of your monthly insurance premium and out-of-pocket costs. Most Minnesotans who enroll through MNsure qualify for financial help.

The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy is the state agency that regulates the practice of pharmacy and the manufacture and distribution of prescription drugs. It exists to promote, preserve, and protect the public health, safety, and welfare by fostering the safe distribution of pharmaceuticals and the provision of quality pharmaceutical care to the citizens of Minnesota.