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.

Step by step

1. Gather your Medicare card.
2. Make a list of your prescription drugs if you want help comparing drug plans.
3. Apply for SHINE counseling online or call 1-800-963-5337 to reach a SHINE counselor.
4. Choose how you want to get help. Counseling may be by phone, at a local counseling site, or at a community enrollment event.
5. Meet with a counselor and ask for help with Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, Part D drug plans, Medigap, prescription help, long-term care insurance, or possible Medicare fraud.
6. Use the counselor's help to understand your choices and complete any benefit applications you need.

What to expect: After you apply, a trained volunteer counselor will give free, unbiased, and confidential one-on-one help. SHINE does not sell insurance. The counselor can help you understand your options and apply, but Medicare, Social Security, or the state makes the final decision on any benefit. There is no renewal for SHINE counseling.

Renewals

none