Every question you have about paying in cash for prescriptions, answered 

With prescription prices going up, it’s reasonable to look for a variety of ways to pay for your prescription. You may not realize it, but you can pay in cash for your prescriptions, even if you have insurance. And in some cases, the cash price – defined as paying at the pharmacy counter without applying your insurance – can actually be more affordable than your price with insurance. A USC study found that pharmacy customers would be better off paying cash 23% of the time.  

Here, we answer your questions about paying in cash for prescriptions. 

Is it legal to pay cash for prescriptions if you have insurance? 

Yes, it is legal to pay cash for your prescriptions even if you have insurance. In fact, it’s your right to choose how you want to pay. Many people assume that using insurance is always the cheapest option, but that’s not necessarily true. High-deductible health plans (HDHPs) can lead to higher out-of-pocket costs, prompting many to explore cash payments. 

Is it common to pay in cash for prescriptions? 

In our Rewriting the Script Report, 31% of respondents said they primarily pay out of pocket for their medications and 61% of insured individuals have paid out of pocket despite having insurance. 

Why would I choose to pay cash instead of using insurance? 

Paying cash can sometimes save you money. Insurance plans can have co-pays that are more expensive than paying out of pocket. By asking for the cash price, you might be able to pay less. The myPrescryptive experience compares cash vs. insurance pricing at pharmacies near you so you can pick what works for you. 

What are the benefits of self-pay at the pharmacy? 

Self-pay, or paying out-of-pocket, offers several benefits: 

• Cost savings: You can save money on generic drugs and avoid the inflated prices caused by middlemen like Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). 

• Transparency: Self-pay provides transparent prescription pricing, allowing you to know exactly what you’re paying for. 

• It can help your pharmacy: Paying a cash price might benefit you, but it also allows the pharmacist to avoid the ongoing reimbursement struggle with PBMs.  

Can I always save money by paying cash? 

While paying cash can often lead to savings, it’s not always the best option for every medication or situation. The savings depend on the type of medication and your specific insurance benefits. But just ask a pharmacist: It’s always worth asking for the cash price at the pharmacy to see if it offers a better deal. 

How can I find pharmacies that accept self-pay? 

It’s simple. The next time you’re at the pharmacy counter ready to pay for your prescription, just ask for a cash price. Many pharmacies can provide you with the option, you just have to ask for it. 

How can digital prescriptions help? 

Digital prescriptions are an innovative solution that enhances the prescription experience. Unlike traditional eScripts, digital prescriptions allow patients to control their prescriptions on their mobile phones from the point of care. This technology connects patients to drug information, pricing, insurance coverage, and pharmacy options, making it easier to compare prices and choose the best payment method, which can help drive down costs. 

Paying in cash for prescriptions can lead to savings, especially for those with high-deductible health plans or no insurance at all. By understanding your payment options and leveraging digital prescription technology, you can take control of your healthcare costs and ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.