Last Updated on January 29, 2026
February 2, 2026
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects approximately 1.3 million Americans, bringing chronic joint pain, fatigue, and inflammation that can significantly impact daily life. On Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day, we want to make sure you know that help is available, especially when it comes to affording the medications that make living with RA more manageable.
At NeedyMeds, we maintain a free database of patient assistance programs, discount options, and financial resources that can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Here’s a guide to finding help for commonly prescribed RA medications.
Methotrexate: The First-Line Treatment
Over 900,000 people in the U.S. take methotrexate, making it the gold standard for RA treatment. Often prescribed as the first medication after diagnosis, methotrexate is effective for many patients—but costs can still add up over time.
Find methotrexate assistance programs:
Biologic Medications
For patients who need more aggressive treatment, biologic medications target specific parts of the immune system. These powerful drugs often come with higher price tags, making assistance programs especially valuable.
TNF Inhibitors
Humira (adalimumab) — One of the most widely prescribed biologics for RA
Enbrel (etanercept) — A top-tier TNF inhibitor biologic
Remicade (infliximab) — An established biologic with wide use
Other Biologics
Orencia (abatacept) — A well-known biologic option that works differently than TNF inhibitors
JAK Inhibitors: Newer Oral Options
Xeljanz (tofacitinib) — Represents the newer class of oral JAK inhibitor treatments, offering an alternative to injectable biologics
Managing Flares
Prednisone (Deltasone) — Commonly used for RA flares when you need quick relief from inflammation
Financial Assistance Programs for RA Patients
Beyond medication-specific programs, several organizations offer broader financial support for people living with rheumatoid arthritis.
Patient Advocate Foundation – Rheumatoid Arthritis Fund
The PAF Rheumatoid Arthritis Fund provides financial assistance to help with:
- Co-payments
- Co-insurance payments
- Deductibles
- Insurance premiums
Learn more about the PAF Rheumatoid Arthritis Fund
Indiana Children’s Special Health Care Services
For Indiana residents: This program provides financial assistance with medical care and medications for children with qualifying medical conditions, including help with:
- Co-insurance
- Medication expenses
- Travel expenses and gas cards
- Medical services
Learn more about Indiana CSHCS
Pro Bono Physical Therapy Programs
Physical therapy plays an important role in managing RA, helping maintain joint mobility and reduce pain. If cost is a barrier, these university-based clinics offer free or low-cost physical therapy services:
Georgia
- Brenau University Pro Bono Clinic — Free evaluations, diagnosis, and treatments from Doctor of Physical Therapy students
Michigan
- Hands for Health Physical Therapy Clinic — Free student-managed physical therapy for the uninsured, underinsured, or financially in need
Kansas City
- JaySTART Clinic — Free occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology services
Utah
- Salt Lake Community College Pro Bono Physical Therapy — Pro bono physical therapy during Fall and Spring semesters
Massachusetts
- UMass Lowell Pro Bono Physical Therapy — Pro bono services through doctoral students
Florida
- University of Florida Physical Therapy Equal Access Clinic — Pro bono evaluations and treatments for orthopedic, cardiopulmonary, and neurological diagnoses
Kentucky
- University of Kentucky Samaritan’s Touch Clinic — Physical therapy for uninsured or underinsured community members
More Ways NeedyMeds Can Help
Our resources go beyond what’s listed here. Use these tools to find additional assistance:
- Search for any medication: Use our drug search on the NeedyMeds homepage to find programs for medications not listed above
- Search by diagnosis: Find condition-specific assistance programs at our program search page
- Compare pharmacy prices: Use our Drug Price Calculator to find the best prices at pharmacies near you with our free discount card
Living with rheumatoid arthritis is challenging enough without worrying about how to afford your treatment. This Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day, take a few minutes to explore the resources available to you. You might be surprised at how much help is out there.
All NeedyMeds resources are free to use. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people afford their medications and healthcare costs.
