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 the Low Income Subsidy (LIS) Extra Help program available for the Part D prescription drug plan. 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

If you are a U.S. military veteran, this resource provides information detailing how VA health care benefits work with Medicare.

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

If you receive 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.

1-877-267-2323
TTY: 1-800-877-8339

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage and financial assistance to help pay medical bills to eligible individuals and families.

1-866-468-7543
TTY: 1-877-204-1012

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

1-800-252-8966

The Illinois Department on Aging is a state program that offers free health insurance counseling to Illinoisans who are Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers.

The official U.S. government Medicare handbook includes a summary of Medicare benefits, rights and protections and has information about available health and drug plans. It also provides answers to frequently asked questions about Medicare.

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