How to apply for NJ SHIP — State Health Insurance Assistance Program (Medicare Counseling)

Who it's for

NJ SHIP provides free, confidential, unbiased Medicare counseling to NJ residents. Trained volunteers help with: Medicare Part A/B/C/D plan selection; Medicare Savings Programs and PAAD enrollment; appeals; billing disputes; long-term care insurance questions. Statewide via 21 county AAA partner offices. Call 1-800-792-8820 to find local NJ SHIP counselor.

What you'll need

• Medicare card
• Current insurance info

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about NJ SHIP — State Health Insurance Assistance Program (Medicare 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 medicare card, current insurance info — 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 any current insurance information before your appointment.
2. Call 1-800-792-8820 to find a free NJ SHIP counselor near you, or apply online through the program's official application page.
3. Schedule an appointment with a trained NJ SHIP volunteer counselor at your local county Area Agency on Aging (AAA) partner office.
4. Meet with your counselor to get free, confidential help with topics such as Medicare Part A, B, C, and D plan selection, Medicare Savings Programs, PAAD enrollment, appeals, billing disputes, or long-term care insurance questions.
5. Follow your counselor's guidance to enroll in or switch plans, file appeals, or resolve billing issues as needed.
6. Plan to reconnect with a NJ SHIP counselor each year, since counseling is available on an annual basis and Medicare plan options change yearly.

What to expect: After you reach out, a trained volunteer counselor will be matched to you through one of NJ SHIP's 21 county partner offices. The counseling session is completely free and confidential — the counselor has no products to sell and works only in your interest. You will leave with clear, unbiased information to help you make informed Medicare decisions that could save you a significant amount of money each year. Because Medicare plans and your personal situation can change, plan to use this free service again annually to make sure your coverage still fits your needs.

Renewals

annual