How to apply for SHINE: free Medicare counseling in Florida (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders)

Who it's for

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is Florida's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), run by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs with the local Area Agencies on Aging. Trained volunteer counselors give free, unbiased, and confidential one-on-one help with Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans, Medigap, prescription help, and long-term care insurance, and help spot Medicare fraud. Counseling is by phone, at local counseling sites, or at community enrollment events, and SHINE helps Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers. Call the Elder Helpline toll-free at 1-800-963-5337 (1-800-96-ELDER) to reach a SHINE counselor.

What you'll need

• Medicare card
• A list of your prescription drugs, if you are comparing drug plans

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about SHINE: free Medicare counseling in Florida (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need medicare card, a list of your prescription drugs, if you are comparing drug plans — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

none