Services Aging & Disability Resource Center SHIP

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

New Open Enrollment dates are Oct. 15 – Dec. 7. Need help with your Medicare plan comparisons? Contact CICOA’s SHIP counselors at 317-803-6138 or 800-432-2422 for assistance. Plan comparisons provide insight and ensure you are well informed when making decisions about enrolling/switching Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans or Prescription Drug (Part D) plans.

In collaboration with the respective sites, CICOA’s Open Enrollment Plan Comparisons Event Schedule is as follows:

  • 10/28 – Boone County Senior Center, 12p-4p (please call for appointment 765-482-5220)
  • 11/4 – Rosewalk at Lutherwood, 9a-12p
  • 11/7 – AHEPA Apartments, 2p-5p
  • 11/9 – Greenwood Senior Citizens Center 12p-4p
  • 11/14 – PrimeLife Enrichment Center 12p-5p
  • 11/16 – Cambridge Square in Beech Grove, 12p-4p
  • 11/22 – Indianapolis Senior Center, 12p-4p (please call for appointment 317-263-6278)

What is SHIP?

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, is a nationwide program that provides free and objective counseling and assistance to persons with questions or problems regarding Medicare and other related health insurances. SHIP is not affiliated with any insurance company or agency and does not sell insurance. 

In Central Indiana, CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions provides expert SHIP counseling through telephone or face-to-face interactions, public education presentations, and media activities. CICOA also has experts who can assist with application for Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs.

Call (317) 803-6138 for an eligibility screening and to apply now!

What is the Low Income Subsidy (LIS) or "Extra Help"?

Extra Help will pay for these costs associated with a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan:

  • Monthly premiums
  • Annual Deductibles
  • Prescription co-payments

Who is eligible? 

  • Anyone who has Medicare Prescription Drug Plan and with limited income

What is the Medicare Savings Program (MSP)?

Three categories of help are available:

  • QMB – Qualified Medicare Beneficiary
    • For individuals at 100% FPL (Federal Poverty Level)
    • Helps pay for Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance
  • SLMB – Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary
    • For individuals at 120% FPL
    • Pays for Medicare Part B Premium only
  • QI – Qualified Individual
    • For individuals at 135% FPL
    • Pays for Medicare Part B premium only

Who is eligible?

  • This is a program provided through Indiana’s Medicaid program for Medicare beneficiaries with low incomes and limited resources.

 

 

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) logo