PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) -- The Medicare open enrollment period is the time of year when everyone covered by it is encouraged to check if their plan still meets their needs and budget for 2026.

The Illinois Department on Aging offers free help comparing health and drug plan options. The Senior Health Insurance Program, or SHIP, is the free statewide health insurance counseling service for those covered by Medicare and their caregivers.

A notice from the IDoA says SHIP counselors are cautioning people this year to check their Medicare drug coverage. There are fewer plans to choose from for 2026, and some premiums have doubled in cost, but there are also four drug plans with $0 premiums.

There is a list of SHIP offices around the state where people can call or visit to get help.

People can al

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