How to apply for Senior LinkAge Line (free Medicare & benefits counseling)

Who it's for

The Senior LinkAge Line (800-333-2433) is Minnesota's free, statewide help line for older adults and caregivers — Medicare counseling (Minnesota's SHIP), help comparing Part D and Medigap plans, screening for Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help, long-term care options counseling, and connections to local services. Operated by the Minnesota Board on Aging through the Area Agencies on Aging.

What you'll need

• None — call to get started

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Senior LinkAge Line (free Medicare & benefits counseling). 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 none — call to get started — 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. Call the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433 or visit the program's official website to get started — no documents are needed before you reach out.
2. Tell the counselor what you need help with, such as understanding Medicare, comparing Part D or Medigap plans, finding out if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program or Extra Help, or exploring long-term care options.
3. Work with your counselor to review your situation and get personalized, unbiased guidance at no cost.
4. Ask the counselor to connect you to local services or Area Agencies on Aging if you need additional support in your community.
5. Follow any next steps your counselor outlines — such as applying for a specific program — keeping in mind that each program has its own eligibility rules.

What to expect: After you call or connect online, a trained counselor will listen to your needs and guide you through your options. Because this is a counseling and referral service, there is no application to submit and no renewal required — you can call back any time your situation changes or new questions come up. If the counselor helps you apply for a separate program, such as Extra Help or a Medicare Savings Program, that program's own process and eligibility rules will apply, and processing times vary; ask the counselor for an estimate when you speak with them.

Renewals

none