How to apply for SHINE — Medicare Counseling (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone)

Who it's for

SHINE provides free, unbiased health-insurance counseling to Massachusetts residents on Medicare and their caregivers. Certified counselors — reached through local councils on aging or MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636 — help compare Medicare plans, find prescription savings, and apply for assistance programs like the Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help.

What you'll need

• Medicare card
• List of current medications (for plan comparisons)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about SHINE — Medicare Counseling (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone). 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, list of current medications (for plan comparisons) — 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your Medicare card and a current list of your medications before reaching out.
2. Contact a SHINE counselor by calling MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636 or by applying online.
3. You can also connect with a SHINE counselor through your local council on aging if you prefer an in-person option.
4. Speak with a certified SHINE counselor, who will review your Medicare card and medication list to help compare plans, find prescription savings, or assist with programs like Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help.
5. Follow any next steps the counselor recommends, such as submitting applications for assistance programs you may qualify for.

What to expect: After connecting with a SHINE counselor, you will receive free, unbiased guidance tailored to your Medicare situation. The counselor will work through your questions at your pace — processing times for any assistance programs you apply for will vary, so ask the counselor for an estimate. Because Medicare plans and your health needs can change, plan to reconnect with a SHINE counselor each year during the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period to make sure your coverage still fits your needs.

Renewals

annual