Does Medicare cover the shingles vaccine?

Key takeaways

• Good news for Medicare beneficiaries: Medicare Part D now covers the shingles vaccine with $0 out-of-pocket costs for most people enrolled in a Medicare Advantage prescription drug (MAPD) plan.¹
• Original Medicare works differently: Medicare Parts A and B cover many preventive services, but they do not cover the shingles vaccine. Coverage comes through Medicare Part D or a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan that includes prescription drug coverage.²
• The CDC recommends Shingrix for adults 50 and older: The vaccine is given as a 2-dose series and provides strong protection against shingles and its complications.²
• Prevention is an important part of healthy aging: Staying up to date on recommended vaccines can lower your risk of serious illness and support your overall well-being.

As we get older, keeping up with recommended vaccines becomes an important part of staying healthy. 1 vaccine many older adults ask about is the shingles vaccine. Shingles can be painful, and the discomfort can last for weeks, months or even longer for some people.

The good news is that Medicare coverage for the shingles vaccine has improved in recent years. Here's what you need to know about coverage, costs and where to get vaccinated.

Does Medicare cover the shingles vaccine?

Medicare covers the shingles vaccine, but coverage depends on the type of Medicare plan you have.

The shingles vaccine is covered under Medicare Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage. You can get this coverage through a:

• Stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
• MA (Part C) plan that includes prescription drug coverage

It's worth noting that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover the shingles vaccine, even though it covers other preventive vaccines, like flu and pneumonia shots.

If you're enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan, you can receive the shingles vaccine at no out-of-pocket cost. This became possible in 2023, when a federal law eliminated cost-sharing for recommended adult vaccines covered under Part D.

If you don't have Part D coverage, you may have to pay the full cost of the vaccine.

What is Shingrix and who should get it?

Shingrix is the vaccine that protects against shingles, a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Because the virus stays in the body after a chickenpox infection, it can reactivate later in life as shingles.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends Shingrix for adults 50 and older. It's given as 2 doses, spaced 2 to 6 months apart.

Shingrix is highly effective, preventing shingles in about 97% of adults ages 50 to 69, and 91% of adults 70 and older.³ Even if you received the older shingles vaccine, Zostavax®, it's still recommended that you get Shingrix for stronger protection.

Common side effects are usually mild and may include soreness at the injection site, fatigue or flu-like symptoms that last a few days.

How much does the shingles vaccine cost with Medicare?

If you have Medicare Part D or a MAPD plan that includes prescription drug coverage, you'll typically pay $0 out of pocket for the shingles vaccine. That means no copayment and no deductible for the shot.¹

Without prescription drug coverage, Shingrix can cost more than $180 per dose, and keep in mind 2 doses are needed for full protection.³

If cost is a concern, you may qualify for Extra Help, a Medicare program that assists people with limited income and resources in paying for Part D premiums, amongst other prescription drug costs.

Checking your coverage before scheduling the vaccine can help you avoid unexpected expenses.

Where can older adults get the shingles vaccine?

Most adults 65 and older get the shingles vaccine at a local pharmacy. But before you go, make sure the pharmacy is in your Medicare Part D plan's network, so your vaccine is covered as expected.

You may also be able to get Shingrix at your healthcare provider’s office or primary care center. It's worth checking that the office can bill your Part D coverage directly, so you don’t have to pay upfront and file for reimbursement later.

In many states, pharmacists can give the shingles vaccine without a prescription. Still, requirements vary by location, so it's a good idea to call ahead and ask.

A quick check with your pharmacy, healthcare provider or Medicare plan can save time and make the process a little smoother.

Frequently asked questions

1. Is the shingles shot free for seniors and older adults?

In most cases, people age 65 and older who have Medicare Part D or a MAPD plan with prescription drug coverage can receive Shingrix at no out-of-pocket cost.¹

2. At what age can you get the shingles vaccine?

The CDC recommends Shingrix for adults age 50 and older. It’s also recommended for certain adults age 19 and older who have weakened immune systems.²

3. Do MA plans cover the shingles vaccine?

Yes, if the plan includes prescription drug coverage.²

4. How many doses do I need?

Shingrix is a 2-dose vaccine series. The second dose is usually given 2 to 6 months after the first.²

5. What if my vaccine claim is billed incorrectly?

Before your appointment, check that the pharmacy or healthcare provider participates in your plan's network. If a billing issue occurs, contact your Medicare plan for guidance on correcting the claim.

How Conviva can help you stay protected against shingles

Understanding your Medicare coverage is an important step, but so is knowing which vaccines and screenings are right for you as you get older.

At Conviva Senior Primary Care®, our healthcare providers take the time to talk through preventive care recommendations, answer questions and make sure you have the information you need to make confident decisions about your health.

Because our care is designed specifically for older adults, you'll have access to a team that works together to keep your care coordinated and connected. Whether you're due for a vaccine, managing a chronic condition or staying on top of routine screenings, we're here to support your long-term health and well-being.

Ready to take the next step? Find a Conviva® center near you or schedule a tour to learn more about our personalized approach to senior care.

Sources:

1. “Shingles vaccines,” Medicare.gov, last accessed Oct. 21, 2026.
2. “Does Medicare Cover the Shingles Vaccine?” National Council on Aging, July 29, 2026, last accessed Oct. 21, 2026.
3. Kimberly Lankford, “Does Medicare cover the shingles vaccine?,” AARP, Oct. 31, 2023, last accessed Oct. 21, 2026.