Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming—especially in a city as complex as New York. But if you’re looking for in-person help with Medicare in NYC, you’re in luck. There are free, trusted services across all five boroughs to help you enroll, compare plans, or fix an issue. Here’s where to go and what to expect.
1. NYC Department for the Aging – HIICAP Counselors
The Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Program (HIICAP) is NYC’s local Medicare help center. HIICAP counselors provide unbiased, one-on-one guidance to Medicare-eligible residents—at no cost.
Main office:
📍 2 Lafayette Street, 9th Floor, Manhattan
📞 To schedule an appointment, call 311 and ask for HIICAP.
Services are available in multiple languages and across neighborhood senior centers in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. Counselors can assist with Medicare enrollment, plan comparisons, and financial assistance programs like Extra Help or Medicare Savings Programs.
2. Statewide SHIP (New York State Office for the Aging)
New York’s official State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) connects you with certified counselors who offer in-person and phone-based help. This includes support for Medigap questions, dual-eligibility, and resolving coverage problems.
3. Social Security Administration Field Offices
For help enrolling in Medicare Part A or B, updating your records, or applying for Extra Help (for prescription costs), you can visit your local SSA field office. Staff can’t help compare Medicare Advantage plans, but they do assist with eligibility and application issues.
Examples of SSA locations in NYC:
- Bronx: 820 Concourse Village West
- Brooklyn: 154 Pierrepont Street
- Queens: 155-10 Jamaica Avenue
- Staten Island: 2389 Richmond Avenue
4. Medicare Rights Center (Nonprofit Support)
The Medicare Rights Center is a national nonprofit based in NYC that offers free Medicare help by phone and can connect you to local in-person options. Their counselors help with denials, savings programs, and complex cases like appeals.
5. NYC Navigator and Facilitated Enroller Programs
New York City also offers Navigator programs to help people with Medicaid, the Essential Plan, and Medicare-related enrollment. These programs are based in community organizations across the five boroughs and serve seniors, immigrants, and low-income households.
Final Word
With the right info—and the right help—you can make a smart, penalty-free decision.
📞 Need one-on-one help? Our local experts are here to guide you through every step.
👉 Visit SecureSafer.com or call (646) 444-2020