Free Medicare Help by State
Free Government Program
What is SHIP?
SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) is a national program funded by the federal government that provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling. SHIP counselors are trained volunteers who help you understand your Medicare options — they don't sell insurance or receive commissions.
Every state has a SHIP program. Click your state below to find contact information for your local SHIP office.
Find your state's SHIP
Click your state to get contact info, phone numbers, and links to schedule free counseling.
100% Free
SHIP is federally funded. You'll never pay for counseling or be asked to buy anything.
Unbiased Advice
Counselors don't work for insurance companies. They help you — not a sales quota.
Local & Personal
Meet in person, by phone, or virtually. SHIP counselors are in your community.
What SHIP counselors help with
- Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
- Comparing Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare
- Reviewing and comparing drug plans (Part D)
- Enrolling in Medicare Savings Programs (MSP)
- Applying for Extra Help / Low Income Subsidy (LIS)
- Understanding Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies
- Resolving billing issues and appeals
- Detecting and reporting Medicare fraud
National SHIP Hotline
Not sure which state to contact? Call the national SHIP helpline and they'll connect you.
1-877-839-2675 →Other ways to get help
Explore more Medicare resources and enrollment tools.