Fact Sheets
Websites & Other Resources
California AAAs
California AAA's: c4a.info; 1-800-510-2020
Local aging issues and resources to community-based services and agencies serving older adults.
California Department of Aging
Sacramento: 916-322-3887
Information on aging and disability issues and demographics, senior legal resources, consumer resources.
California Medicare News
Variety of current articles on Medicare-related topics.
Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)
1-800-434-0222
Free counseling about Medicare, Medigap policies, Medicare Advantage (formerly known as Medicare+Choice) plans, filing an appeal and long-term care insurance.
Medicare.gov – The Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare
1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227)
Information on Medicare, Medigap policies, Medicare Advantage (formerly known as Medicare+Choice) plan options, prescription drug assistance programs, nursing homes and home health care, and other Medicare-related issues.
Medicare Fraud
1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227)
Overview on Medicare fraud, prevention tips and how to report fraud. Also links to Medicare publications on fraud.
National Council on Aging: Online Screening Service
Online screening service that checks older adults' eligibility for various public and private benefit programs in all 50 states. Programs include those for prescription drugs (and screening for Part D Low-Income Subsidy), nutrition (such as food stamps), legal services, energy assistance, in-home services, tax assistance and transportation.
Office of Inspector General
1-800-HHS-TIPS (447-8477)
Medicare fraud; reporting complaints or fraud in the Medicare program.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs)
Provides contact information for each state's SHIP.
Senior Medicare Patrol Project (SMP)
California's SMP office: 714-560-0309
To speak to a California SMP counselor in your county: 1-800-434-0222
Provides contact information on each state's SMP project, education and advocacy on how to recognize, report and protect yourself from Medicare fraud.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
1-800-772-1213
Covers Medicare eligibility, Social Security benefits, change of address for Medicare or Social Security, lost Medicare card replacements.