Turning 65 soon? Retiring after the age of 65? These are just a few life events that can make you eligible for Medicare.

SHIP, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, wants to help people with Medicare, including people under 65 with disabilities, get more value from their health insurance dollars. SHIP provides consumers with free, impartial and confidential health insurance counseling regarding Medicare, Medicare supplement insurance (Medigap), Medicare Advantage Plans, Long Term Care Plans, and finding help with prescription costs. We can also help you enroll in the program(s) of your choice. SHIP counselors can assist with low-income assistance applications, as well as referrals to other similar programs.

SHIP has more than 147 sites and over 463 trained and certified counselors throughout Indiana. Our counselors can assist you in person, by phone, or virtually. Look for a SHIP site near you at www.in.gov/ship/find-anindiana-ship-location.

SHIP offers presentations and educational events throughout Indiana. Look for a SHIP event near you at www.in.gov/ship/ship-presentations-and-events.

What else can SHIP do to help you?

• Help you evaluate the various Medicare Part D, Medicare supplement insurance policies (Medigap), Medicare Advantage, and Long Term Care Insurance policies currently available in Indiana.
• Help you enroll in the plan(s) of your choice.
• Help with applications for assistance programs that help pay for uncovered Medicare costs.
• Inform you of your rights as a Medicare beneficiary or health insurance policyholder.
• Provide educational videos, webinars, materials, and brochures.
• Educate you to understand Medicare, file claims, and appeal Medicare decisions.
• Refer you to appropriate agencies where you can get help with other needs.
• Provide speakers to make presentations to groups.

Learn more about what SHIP can do to help your transition to Medicare at www.Medicare.in.gov. You can also find us on Facebook, YouTube, X, and LinkedIn. Contact SHIP directly during standard business hours at (800) 452-4800.