Operated by HealthBenefitsCompass LLC, a subsidiary of HealthcareGPS Inc.Medicare education · Not a government websiteReviewed by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN (licensed Medicare agent) and Karen OrillaHow we prepare our guidance →Meet our reviewers →

Reviewed for accuracy by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN, licensed Medicare agentReviewed for clarity by Karen OrillaReviewed September 10, 2026Meet our reviewers →

First-Time Medicare · Preparation you can take with you

Help someone with their Medicare

An agreed question and a respectful way to join the call.

Choose another task

Start with this

Let the person choose the question and how you help. Ask the office or Medicare what permission is needed before discussing their personal information or acting on their behalf.

Keep these nearby

A question chosen together, the relevant notice and contact number. Let the person keep control of their documents and decisions.

Your next three steps

Tick a step when you have completed it. These ticks stay only on this page.

Ask what the person wants help with today. Agree on one question and whether they want you to listen, take notes or speak.
Ask Medicare, the plan or the office what permission or representative form is needed for that task. Being a family member does not automatically authorize access.
Write down the answer, who gave it and the next step. Read it back together and let the person decide what to do.

Words you can use

Start the conversation

“They would like me to help with this question. What permission do you need, and can they stay involved in the conversation?”

Check the official guidance

Medicare.gov: permission to share health information ↗

Source checked September 9, 2026. Educational preparation; the responsible agency or plan must confirm your situation.

Notes for your conversation

Who I spoke with: ____________________ Date: ______________

Answer / next step: ___________________________________________

Follow-up date: ______________________________________________