SPRINGFIELD: Older adults and people with disabilities need to apply now over the Internet for Illinois Cares Rx Basic (also known as the Circuit Breaker program) and for Illinois Cares Rx Plus (formerly SeniorCare) to get their benefits faster and to avoid any possible break in coverage.

The state's pharmaceutical assistance program, Illinois Cares Rx, provides wrap-around prescription drug coverage to fill in the gaps created by Medicare Part D and offers drug coverage for people who do not have Medicare. Individuals eligible for the Illinois Cares Rx program may also qualify for additional benefits from the State's Circuit Breaker program like property tax relief or an annual $54.00 discount on the license plate fee for one vehicle.

The Illinois Cares Rx program is designed to help seniors get the prescription drugs and benefits that they are entitled to, at a low cost. The deadline for applications is December 31.