Getting Free, Unbiased Medicare Counseling Through SHIP
Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program offering free, one-on-one Medicare counseling. Learn what SHIP counselors can help with and how to reach one.
The short version
- SHIP counseling is free and available in every state.
- Counselors do not sell insurance or earn commissions.
- They can help compare plans, explain bills and assist with applications for savings programs.
In this guide
Medicare decisions can be complex, and sorting through mailers, ads and phone calls from insurance agents can be overwhelming. Fortunately, every state has a resource that offers free, personalized help with no sales pressure: the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP.
What is SHIP?
SHIPs are state-based programs that receive federal funding to provide free, local, one-on-one counseling to people with Medicare, their families and caregivers. In some states, the program has a different name, but it provides the same service.
SHIP counselors are trained, and many are volunteers. Importantly, they do not sell insurance, do not represent any insurance company and do not earn commissions. Their goal is to help you understand your options and make the choice that is right for you.
What SHIP counselors can help with
- Understanding how Medicare works
- Deciding when to enroll and avoiding late penalties
- Comparing Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
- Comparing Part D drug plans during Open Enrollment
- Understanding Medigap options and your rights
- Applying for Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help
- Understanding how Medicare works with employer coverage, retiree coverage or Medicaid
- Reviewing Medicare bills and Medicare Summary Notices
- Filing appeals when a service is denied
- Recognizing and reporting possible fraud
How to reach your SHIP
- Online: visit shiphelp.org and select your state to find contact information.
- By phone: call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and ask for your state's SHIP.
- Locally: many senior centers, libraries and Area Agencies on Aging host SHIP counselors, especially during Open Enrollment.
Counseling may be available by phone, in person or virtually.
How to prepare for your appointment
To make the most of your time, bring:
- Your Medicare card
- Any current insurance cards (Medicare Advantage, Part D, Medigap, employer or retiree coverage)
- A list of your medications with doses and how often you take them
- A list of your doctors, hospitals and pharmacies
- Recent letters from Medicare, Social Security or your plan, such as your Annual Notice of Change
- Information about your income and resources if you want to check eligibility for savings programs
- Your questions, written down
Plan ahead during busy seasons
SHIP counselors are especially busy during Medicare Open Enrollment from October 15 to December 7. If you want help comparing plans, call early in the season to schedule an appointment.
Other free sources of help
- 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Medicare.gov, including the Plan Finder tool
- Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), which helps people prevent, detect and report Medicare fraud
- Your local Area Agency on Aging, reachable through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116
A note on agents and brokers
Licensed insurance agents and brokers can also help you compare plans, and many are knowledgeable. However, they may represent only certain companies and may earn commissions. It can be helpful to talk with a SHIP counselor as well for an unbiased perspective.
Terrameritavi is an independent publication and is not affiliated with SHIP, Medicare or any government agency.
