How to apply for South Carolina SHIP — free Medicare counseling

Who it's for

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) gives free, one-on-one insurance counseling to people with Medicare, their families, and caregivers. SHIP counselors answer Medicare questions, help compare and enroll in Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans, explain Medigap and retiree coverage, help with Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, and Low-Income Subsidies, and help resolve billing problems and appeals. Call the South Carolina Department on Aging at 1-800-868-9095 or contact your local Area Agency on Aging.

What you'll need

• Medicare card
• List of current medications (for plan comparisons)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about South Carolina 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 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your Medicare card and a list of your current medications if you want help comparing plans.
2. Apply online or call 1-800-868-9095 to ask for SHIP counseling.
3. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging if you want to get help through a local office.
4. Explain what you need help with, such as Medicare questions, plan comparisons, enrollment help, billing problems, or appeals.
5. Have your documents ready during the counseling session so the counselor can review your options with you.

What to expect: After you ask for help, a SHIP counselor can provide free, one-on-one Medicare counseling. The counselor may help you compare coverage, understand your choices, or work through billing or appeal issues. The counseling is free, but any benefit programs or plans it helps you enroll in have their own eligibility rules. There is no renewal for SHIP counseling.

Renewals

none