Here's the short answer. Free, unbiased Medicare counseling is available in every state through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). SHIP counselors explain your coverage options, help with billing questions, and never sell insurance or push a specific plan.
How to find a SHIP counselor near you
- Find your state in the state-by-state directory on this page.
- Call the number listed or visit your state program's website. Many states have local offices.
- Or call the national line at 1-877-839-2675, or use the locator at shiphelp.org. They can connect you to a counselor in your area.
- Ask for a counseling visit. Visits can be in person or by phone. Have your Medicare card and a list of your medicines ready.
What is SHIP?
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a federally funded, locally delivered program that provides free, one-on-one Medicare counseling to older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers. All services are unbiased, confidential, and objective — SHIP counselors do not sell insurance.
Every U.S. state and territory has a SHIP program, often branded with a state-specific name. SHIPs help with Medicare questions, comparing coverage options, understanding costs, troubleshooting enrollment, and resolving billing disputes — all without steering you toward any particular insurer or plan.
How SHIP differs from insurance brokers
- No commission: SHIPs are publicly funded; they do not earn money when you choose a specific plan.
- Objective: They explain all available options in your state, not just the plans they represent.
- Confidential: Your personal and financial information remains private and is not shared with insurers.
- No sales: SHIPs provide information and guidance, never pressure or sales pitches.
National SHIP Locator
The easiest way to find your state's SHIP is through the SHIP Technical Assistance Center at shiphelp.org, or call 1-877-839-2675 (TTY lines available). They can connect you with a counselor in your area or connect you via phone.
State-by-State SHIP Directory
Below is a complete directory of all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Click on your state's program name to visit their official website, or call the number listed. Many states offer local offices where you can meet with a counselor in person.
When to contact your SHIP
- You are turning 65 or becoming eligible for Medicare and have questions about enrollment.
- You are comparing Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap policies, or Part D prescription drug plans.
- You have questions about out-of-pocket costs, deductibles, co-payments, or copays.
- You are concerned about a billing dispute or claim denial.
- You are looking for help paying for Medicare premiums, copayments, or other costs.
- You believe you have been a victim of Medicare fraud or billing error.
- You are considering dropping coverage or have experienced a life change (retirement, loss of employer coverage, etc.).
What to expect from SHIP
When you contact a SHIP counselor, expect:
- Confidentiality: Your personal information is kept private.
- No pressure: The counselor will ask questions to understand your situation and provide tailored information — never tell you which plan to choose.
- Written materials: Many states provide guides, worksheets, or comparisons to take home.
- Follow-up: You can call back with more questions or after you enroll to verify you chose the right coverage.
- Local help: Many SHIPs have offices in your county or can arrange phone counseling.