Prescription drugs are a necessary part of life for millions of Americans, but the cost can feel overwhelming. 

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 3 in 10 U.S. adults say they haven’t taken their medication as prescribed in the past year because of the cost, whether that means skipping doses, delaying refills or not filling a prescription at all.

Whether you’re managing chronic conditions or filling routine meds, knowing how to save money on prescriptions can make a huge difference in your budget—and your health.

In this guide, you’ll learn key strategies to save on prescriptions. And don’t forget: With KashKick, you can stretch your money even further by earning rewards while using tools and services that help you save on everyday expenses, including your health.

1. Shop Around for the Best Prescription Price

One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming prescription prices are fixed and the same everywhere. They’re not. The same medication can vary by dozens—sometimes hundreds—of dollars between pharmacies just a few miles apart. That’s why one of the easiest ways to save money on prescriptions is simply comparing prices before you fill.

Compare Local Pharmacy Prices

Check multiple pharmacies, including big chains, grocery store pharmacies and independent shops. Some stores offer lower base pricing even without insurance.

Check Cash Price vs. Insurance Copay

Surprisingly, your insurance copay isn’t always the cheapest option. Ask the pharmacist what the cash price is and compare it to your insured price.

Use Online Price Comparison Tools

Websites and apps like GoodRx, RxSaver or Blink Health let you compare prices and find coupons. Sometimes, these discounts beat insurance altogether.

A few minutes of research before checkout can save you real money every single month.

2. Save Money on Prescriptions With Generic Drugs

If you’re still paying for brand-name medications, you may be overspending. Generic drugs use the same active ingredients and meet the same FDA standards as brand-name versions—but they often cost 80% to 85% less, according to the FDA.

Why is that? Brand-name drugs include research and marketing costs. Generics skip those extras, passing the savings on to you.

When you’re prescribed a new medication, ask your doctor if there’s a generic or lower-cost alternative. Doctors can often switch you to a therapeutically equivalent medication that works just as well for less. Do note, however, that in some cases, brand-name drugs are necessary.

3. Use Discount Prescription Programs

Prescription discount programs are one of the most underrated tools for cutting costs. These programs negotiate lower prices with pharmacies and pass the savings to you—no insurance required.

Use Free Prescription Discount Cards

Programs like GoodRx, SingleCare and WellRx offer free coupons you can use at the pharmacy counter. Just show the code on your phone and compare the price.

Look for Manufacturer Assistance Programs

Many drug manufacturers offer patient assistance programs for people who meet income or insurance criteria. These can reduce costs—sometimes to just a few dollars.

Check Nonprofit Support Resources

Organizations like NeedyMeds connect patients with coupons, grants and programs that make prescriptions more affordable.

One thing to note: If you use a discount card instead of insurance, the purchase usually won’t count toward your deductible—but the immediate savings are often worth it.

4. Look Into Mail-Order and 90-Day Refill Options

If you take regular medications, short refills can cost you more in the long run. Many insurance plans and pharmacies offer discounts for ordering larger supplies.

Rather than stopping by the pharmacy down the street, mail-order pharmacies sometimes offer lower pricing and added convenience. Plus, you won’t forget refills as easily.

It’s also worth seeing if you can get a 90-day supply instead of paying for a monthly supply. This could help lower your cost per dose and reduce refill fees.

5. Understand Your Insurance

If you have insurance, it can be a powerful money-saving tool. Smart insurance use can save hundreds or even thousands per year. Take these steps:

Use HSAs and FSAs

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) let you pay for prescriptions with pre-tax dollars, lowering your overall healthcare costs.

Review Your Drug Formulary

Insurance plans categorize drugs into pricing tiers. Knowing which tier your medication falls into can help you and your doctor choose cheaper alternatives.

Reevaluate Your Plan Each Year

During open enrollment, review prescription coverage carefully. A cheaper premium isn’t always cheaper if your meds aren’t well covered.

6. Talk to Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists aren’t just there to hand over pills—they’re a valuable resource and can help you find prescription drug savings. Not sure how to approach the topic? Start with these questions:

• Are there cheaper alternatives to this medication? Pharmacists know what’s available, what’s generic and what can be swapped safely.
• Can you run a price check on this prescription? They can compare insurance, cash and discount card pricing on the spot.
• Are there any safe dosage changes or pill-splitting options that could lower the cost? Sometimes a higher-dose pill split in half costs less than two lower-dose pills (when approved by your doctor).

A short conversation can unlock savings you didn’t even know existed.

How to Save Money on Prescriptions This Year

Learning how to save money on prescriptions is one of the smartest ways to protect your monthly budget without risking your health. 

By shopping around, choosing generics, using discount programs, planning refills and working with your pharmacist, you can take control of your medication costs instead of letting them control you.

And with KashKick, saving gets even better—because smart financial choices can also earn you rewards along the way.