How to apply for Texas Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP): free Medicare counseling

Who it's for

Texas's Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) is the state's free Medicare counseling program, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Texas. Certified benefits counselors, trained and overseen by HHSC, the Texas Legal Services Center, and the Area Agencies on Aging, help people understand Medicare and pick a plan that works for them. Counselors explain Original Medicare eligibility, enrollment, benefits, complaints, rights and appeals; compare Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies; explain and compare Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans and help enroll or disenroll; compare Part D drug plans and find other prescription help; and explain long-term care insurance. Medicare beneficiaries and their representatives of any age are eligible. Call the free Texas Medicare helpline at 1-800-252-9240 or find your local Area Agency on Aging office.

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 Texas Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP): 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, 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 1-800-252-9240 for free Medicare counseling.
4. Ask to review your Medicare choices, such as Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D drug plans, long-term care insurance, or Medicare rights and appeals.
5. Use the counselor's help to compare options and, if needed, get help enrolling or disenrolling from a plan.

What to expect: After you apply, a certified benefits counselor can help you understand your Medicare choices and application options. Counseling is free and does not sell insurance. The counselor can help with information and applications, but Medicare, Social Security, or the state makes the final decision on any benefit. There is no renewal for this counseling service.

Renewals

none