How to apply for Kentucky SHIP: free Medicare counseling (State Health Insurance Assistance Program)

Who it's for

Kentucky's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) gives free information, counseling, and help to seniors and people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers on Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D drug plans, Medigap, and programs that lower Medicare costs. Counselors help one-on-one by phone or in person, speak to community groups, hand out printed guides, and refer people to other agencies. SHIP does not sell insurance and the help is free. Through the Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program, SHIP also helps qualifying people get prescription drugs free or at lower cost. Counselors serve all 120 counties through the local Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living. Call the statewide SHIP hotline at 1-877-293-7447 and choose option 2.

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 Kentucky SHIP: free Medicare counseling (State Health Insurance Assistance Program). 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 online or call 1-877-293-7447 and choose option 2.
4. Ask for one-on-one SHIP counseling by phone or in person through your local Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living.
5. Use the counseling session to review Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D drug plans, Medigap, and programs that may lower Medicare costs.
6. Ask for help with prescription drug assistance if you may qualify for free or lower-cost medicines.

What to expect: After you apply, a SHIP counselor can help you understand your choices and may help you with applications. The counseling is free, and SHIP does not sell insurance. Medicare, Social Security, or the state makes the final decision on any benefit. There is no renewal for SHIP counseling.

Renewals

none