How to apply for GeorgiaCares (Georgia SHIP — Free Medicare Counseling)

Who it's for

GeorgiaCares is Georgia's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — free, unbiased, one-on-one help for people on Medicare and their caregivers. Certified counselors explain your Medicare options, compare Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans during open enrollment, help you enroll, sort out billing and claims problems, file appeals, and screen you for programs that lower your costs such as the Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help. GeorgiaCares is not connected to any insurance company and never sells insurance, so the guidance is impartial and free. Counselors are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., by calling 1-866-552-4464 and choosing option 4, or through your local Area Agency on Aging.

What you'll need

• Medicare card
• List of current medications (for Part D plan comparisons)
• Any Medicare notices, bills, or denials you have questions about

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about GeorgiaCares (Georgia SHIP — Free 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, list of current medications (for Part D plan comparisons), any Medicare notices, bills, or denials you have questions about — 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, a list of your current medications, and any Medicare notices, bills, or denials you have questions about.
2. Call GeorgiaCares toll-free at 1-866-552-4464, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and choose option 4 to reach a certified counselor — or apply online.
3. You can also contact your local Area Agency on Aging to connect with a GeorgiaCares counselor near you.
4. Speak one-on-one with a certified counselor who will review your Medicare options, compare plans, help you enroll, or assist with billing issues, claims, and appeals at no cost.
5. Ask the counselor to screen you for cost-saving programs such as Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help if you are concerned about affording your coverage or medications.

What to expect: After connecting with a GeorgiaCares counselor, you will receive free, unbiased guidance tailored to your situation — whether that means comparing Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plans, resolving a billing problem, or filing an appeal. Because GeorgiaCares is not connected to any insurance company and never sells insurance, all advice is impartial. There is no formal application to renew — this is a free service you can use any time your Medicare questions or needs change, including each year during open enrollment.

Renewals

as needed (free service)