Free Advice & Counseling
Get free, unbiased counseling before you choose a plan. A counselor can help you understand your options.
SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program)
Free, one-on-one counseling about Medicare, Medicaid, and health coverage. SHIP counselors work for your state and are free to use. They don't sell anything and don't favor one plan. They can help you understand your options, compare plans, and fix coverage problems. Find your local program at shiphelp.org.
Medicare Help Line (Official)
1-800-633-4227 (1-800-MEDICARE) | medicare.gov
Call this government line for free help about Medicare. They answer questions about benefits, enrollment deadlines, costs, and finding care. Medicare.gov also has tools to compare plans and step-by-step guides.
Area Agencies on Aging & Eldercare Locator
1-800-677-1116 | eldercare.acl.gov
Local programs that help older adults and caregivers find services and counseling. Call the Eldercare Locator or visit the website to find the program near you. Services vary by area but may include meals, transportation, legal help, and help applying for benefits.
Help With Medicare Costs
If you have Medicare and low income, you may qualify for programs that help pay your premiums (monthly costs), deductibles (amounts you pay before insurance helps), and other costs.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)
Your State Medicaid Agency | medicaid.gov
State programs that help people pay for Medicare premiums (monthly costs), copayments (your share of bills), and deductibles (amounts you pay before insurance helps). These are Medicaid benefits, and income limits vary by state. You apply through your state Medicaid agency. If you qualify, the program may pay part or all of your Part B and Part D premiums and some of your costs.
PACE (Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
A Medicare program for people with ongoing health conditions who want to stay independent and live at home. PACE includes medical care, social services, and help with daily activities — often free or low cost. Not available everywhere. Check medicare.gov to see if PACE is in your area.
Help With Prescription Drug Costs
If you have Medicare or are applying for coverage and have low income, you may get help paying for prescription drugs.
Extra Help / Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)
Social Security Administration (ssa.gov) | medicare.gov
A federal program that helps people with low income pay for Part D prescription drugs. You get help with premiums (monthly costs), deductibles, and copayments (your share). You can apply through Social Security Administration (ssa.gov) or Medicare.gov, or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. Income limits are higher than you might think — you may qualify.
Full Health Coverage
If you don't have health insurance or want to pay less, these programs offer coverage for you and your family.
Medicaid
Your State Medicaid Agency | medicaid.gov
A federal-state program that pays for health care for people with low income. Medicaid covers doctor visits, prescription drugs, and long-term care. Eligibility and benefits vary by state, but all states must cover basic services. You can apply anytime during the year (not just during enrollment periods). Find your state agency using the state directory.
Health Insurance Marketplace Premium Tax Credits & Subsidies
If you buy insurance through the ACA Marketplace (HealthCare.gov), you may get tax credits that lower your monthly payment. You may also get cost-sharing reductions that lower your deductibles and copayments (your share of bills). Income limits are higher than you might think. Apply on HealthCare.gov during open enrollment or after a life change (like losing a job).
Find Out What You Qualify For
Benefits.gov — Benefits Screening Tool
A free government website that shows you what benefits you might qualify for. Answer a few questions about your household and income, and the tool will show you programs that could help — including Medicare savings programs, Medicaid, SNAP, utility help, and more.
What Happens Next?
- Get unbiased counseling first. Call SHIP (shiphelp.org) or your Area Agency on Aging. A counselor can explain your options at no cost.
- Check if you qualify. Use Benefits.gov, call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227, or call your State Medicaid agency.
- Apply for programs you qualify for. Applications are free and you can apply anytime. Have your income documents ready.
- Follow up. After applying, ask when to expect a decision and what you need to do if circumstances change.