How to apply for Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — Medicare Counseling

Who it's for

Tennessee's SHIP gives free, unbiased Medicare counseling to Medicare-eligible Tennesseans, their families, and caregivers. Counselors help compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D drug plans, understand Medigap, and enroll in programs that lower Medicare costs. Counselors do not sell or endorse any plan. Call 1-877-801-0044.

What you'll need

• Medicare card
• Current insurance information
• A list of current medications (helpful for Part D comparisons)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — 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, current insurance information, a list of current medications (helpful for Part D 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 current insurance information. Keep a list of your current medications handy if you want help comparing Part D drug plans.
2. Apply online or call 1-877-801-0044 to ask for SHIP Medicare counseling in Tennessee.
3. Share your Medicare and coverage details with the counselor. Ask for help comparing Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D drug plans, and Medigap.
4. Ask the counselor about programs that can help lower Medicare costs if you want screening or enrollment help.
5. Use the counseling session to review your options and choose the coverage that fits your needs. Counselors do not sell or endorse any plan.

What to expect: After you apply, a SHIP counselor will review your Medicare questions and coverage options with you. This is a free counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries, family members, and caregivers, and there is no income or asset test. Counselors are not agents and do not sell plans. If you keep using the service, plan to review your coverage each year, since renewal is annual.

Renewals

annual