In this guide 3 sections
People who are newly eligible for Medicare often need help understanding coverage choices and want their family in the room. Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program, known as SHIP, that offers free local Medicare counseling to beneficiaries, families and caregivers. The asker here is in Connecticut; the steps are the same wherever you live.
Start with your state's SHIP
SHIP provides free, personalized Medicare counseling. Its counselors are trained and objective, and can help you choose a plan, review coverage, understand costs, apply for Extra Help, and file a complaint or appeal.
- 1.Open the national SHIP directory and select your state, or call 1-877-839-2675 and say "Medicare" to be connected to your local program.
- 2.Use the listing to request help from the local SHIP program.
- 3.Ask for an in person appointment and ask whether your adult children can attend.
- 4.Tell the counselor you need your enrollment deadline reviewed, and bring any letters you have received.
Who should confirm the deadline?
Ask the SHIP counselor to review your circumstances and your deadline. Contact Social Security when you are ready to sign up for Part A or Part B. The deadline depends on your situation, so confirm your date rather than relying on a general rule.
If you cannot get an in person appointment
Use Eldercare Locator to find services for older adults and families in your community. Trained staff are available by phone or text at 1-800-677-1116, as well as through online chat and email.
Questions families ask
Can my adult children attend the counseling appointment?
SHIP serves Medicare beneficiaries, families, and caregivers. Ask your local program whether your adult children can join the in person appointment.
Is SHIP connected to an insurance company?
No. SHIP offers objective Medicare counseling. The national SHIP resource describes its counseling as trusted and unbiased.
What can SHIP help me understand?
SHIP can help people choose a plan, review coverage, understand costs, apply for Extra Help, and file a complaint or appeal.
Who handles Medicare Part A and Part B enrollment?
Contact Social Security to sign up for Medicare Part A or Part B.
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