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Home > Glossary > State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

What is a state health insurance assistance program (SHIP)?

State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) are federally funded programs in each state and in some territories that provide free counseling and assistance to Medicare enrollees and their families.

SHIPs are not affiliated with insurance companies, so they can provide unbiased advice and assistance. They can answer questions and provide advice about benefits, premiums, cost-sharing, enrollment windows, and appeals. They can also assist you with the process of enrolling in, or disenrolling from, a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Part D plan.

You can find your state’s SHIP here.

Are there specific steps I should take to prepare for enrollment in Medicare?

Here's how to successfully enroll in Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D or Medigap; plus enrollment information for dual-eligibles.

Who can help me enroll in a Medicare plan?

It's fine for friends and family to help you work through the Medicare plan selection process, as long as you follow a few basic guidelines.

Are there specific steps I should take to prepare for enrollment in Medicare?

Here's how to successfully enroll in Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D or Medigap; plus enrollment information for dual-eligibles.

Who can help me enroll in a Medicare plan?

It's fine for friends and family to help you work through the Medicare plan selection process, as long as you follow a few basic guidelines.

See more articles

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

What is a state health insurance assistance program (SHIP)?

What is a state health insurance assistance program (SHIP)?

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