Third-Party Resources

These websites and contacts can act as your own Medicare guide.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
TTY: 1-877-486-2048

CMS is the Federal agency that administers the Medicare program. Use this resource to learn more about eligibility, coverage and plans.

1-800-772-1213
TTY: 1-800-325-0778

The SSA provides information about Medicare eligibility and on the low income subsidy (LIS) “Extra Help” for the Part D drug program. You can also request a replacement Medicare card, change your name or address and report a death.

1-800-827-1000
TTY: 1-800-829-4833

This resource is for veterans or those who have served in the U.S. Military.

1-877-772-5772 or your local office
TTY: 1-312-751-4701

If you have benefits from the RRB, you can call them to check eligibility, learn about payment benefits, enroll in Medicare, replace your Medicare card or report a death.

Medicaid is a joint Federal and state program that helps pay medical costs for those requiring financial assistance.

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) helps those who qualify for Medicaid pay for health care coverage

1-888-206-1327

Illinois Department on Aging is a state program that offers free health insurance counseling to people with Medicare.

The official U.S. government Medicare handbook has a summary of Medicare benefits, rights and protections and answers to many questions about Medicare.

The official U.S. government Medicare website glossary explains terms in the Medicare program.