How to apply for SHIBA — free Medicare counseling (Oregon SHIP)
Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA)
Who it's for
The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program (SHIBA) is Oregon's free Medicare counseling service. Trained, certified counselors give local, confidential one-on-one help to people with Medicare and their families. They can help you understand your Medicare options, compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap and prescription drug plans, and learn about financial help. SHIBA also offers free Medicare classes. Call 1-800-722-4134 and enter your ZIP code to reach a local office in your county.
Counseling is free; the programs it helps you enroll in have their own eligibility rules. Wait times can be longer during Medicare open enrollment.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Medicare card
- List of current medications (for plan comparisons)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-722-4134
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about SHIBA — free Medicare counseling (Oregon SHIP). 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.
Renewals
none
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.