·Federal program
SHIP — State Health Insurance Assistance Program
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling in every state, administered by ACL through state grantees and delivered by trained volunteer counselors. Helps caregivers and Medicare beneficiaries understand plan options (Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D), screen for Low Income Subsidy and Medicare Savings Programs, appeal claims, and navigate Medicare enrollment periods. A core caregiver task and present at most ADRCs.
What it offers
Free one-on-one Medicare counseling and education for Medicare beneficiaries, families, and caregivers: (1) Medicare plan comparison — Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage, Part D drug plans, Medigap/supplemental plans; (2) LIS and MSP screening — Extra Help for Part D drug costs, Medicare Savings Programs (SLMB, QMB, QDWI) that pay premiums and cost-sharing; (3) appeals and rights help — Medicare claims, prior authorization, and coverage denials; (4) enrollment-period guidance; (5) coordination of benefits — Medicare plus Medicaid, employer coverage, supplemental policies, retiree coverage, or other insurance. ACL reports 54 SHIP grantees covering all 50 states, DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with 2,200+ local sites and 12,500+ team members. Find a local SHIP at shiphelp.org or 1-877-839-2675.
Questions that decide eligibility
GiveCare prepares the questions; the program makes the decision. Bring these to the call or the application:
- 01
Does the VA disability rating meet the program’s minimum (our record lists null%)?
- 02
Do the work hours meet the minimum (our record lists null hours)?
- 03
Is there a caregiver-specific department, coordinator, or support line? Ask for it by name.
Many agencies have one that isn’t advertised on the website.
- 04
What documents do you need from us to start an application?
- 05
Is there a waitlist right now, and how long is it?