Applying for Pharmacare

There are two ways to apply.  The recent advancements in electronic data exchange technology now make it possible for Manitoba Health to verify income information directly from Canada Revenue Agency.  Therefore, the Pharmacare Program is now able to implement a system whereby Manitobans do not have to apply to Pharmacare for benefits on an annual basis.

Option A: One-Time Enrolment

The revised application system affords Manitobans the choice of a one-time program enrolment.  The one time program enrolment eliminates the need to submit, on an annual basis, a completed application form that includes validation of income.  In addition, the revised system facilitates an electronic data exchange to establish the annual deductible on April 1 of each benefit year.  Canada Revenue Agency electronically forwards to Manitoba Health the most recent income information available; that is, 2007 income level will determine the annual Pharmacare deductible for the 2009/2010 benefit year.  In short, Manitobans are no longer required to annually submit a Pharmacare application along with income verification.

Please note that you may make application to the program anytime during the benefit year April 1 to March 31.  Manitobans that choose to withdraw from the one time program enrolment must do so in writing to the Provincial Drug Programs.

Option B: Annual Application

Fill out and sign both the Consent and Declaration sections of the new Pharmacare Application and Consent Authorization Form and send it to Manitoba Health along with copies of your 2007 Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment indicating the total income shown on line 150. Please note:  if you elected to split pension income with your spouse in 2007, you are required to submit copies of your Canada Revenue Agency 2007 Option C Summary Reports instead of 2007 Notice of Assessments. You may request an Option C Summary Report from the Canada Revenue Agency by contacting them at 1-800-959-8281.

To register for coverage, you must re-apply each year.  The Pharmacare benefit year is April 1 to March 31.  You may apply any time during the benefit year.  March 31, 2010 is the last day to submit applications for the 2009/2010 benefit year.

Commonly-Asked Questions for Option B

What is a Notice of Assessment?

The Notice of Assessment is a summary of your tax information sent to you by Canada Revenue Agency after your tax return is processed.  It will be attached to your refund cheque or statement.

When would we need to submit an Option C Summary Report?

Option C Summary Reports would be required if you and your spouse elected to split pension income in 2007. You may request an Option C summary Report from the Canada Revenue Agency by contacting them at 1-800-959-8281.

My tax information is confidential.  Why do you need a copy of my Notice of Assessment?

Pharmacare is an income-based program and requires this information in order to verify and process your application.  Pharmacare has taken the necessary steps to protect your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal information.

My spouse and I file our taxes together on one return.  Do we have to send you anything different?

Pharmacare requires proof of your spouse's income.  One acceptable document is a copy of the Canada Revenue Agency Schedule 2 "Amounts Transferred From Spouse," from your working copy of your tax return.

What if my Notice of Assessment has been lost or destroyed?

You may contact Canada Revenue Agency for a certified printout at toll free 1-800-959-8281.

The certified printout should indicate the amount on line 150.

If you file a joint income tax return with Canada Revenue Agency:

1. you must indicate this to Canada Revenue Agency when requesting a certified printout for you and your spouse, and;
2. Canada Revenue Agency will require identifying information for both spouses before they will release your spouse's information.