Medicare Part B covers the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) at no cost to you
Yes, Medicare Part B pays for the shingles vaccine without a copay, coinsurance, or deductible. The vaccine is called Shingrix, and it requires two doses given two to six months apart. You receive it at a doctor's office, hospital outpatient clinic, or pharmacy that accepts Medicare.
This coverage applies if you are enrolled in Medicare Part B, regardless of your age. You do not need to meet any income or health requirements — if you have Part B, the vaccine is covered. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends Shingrix for adults 50 and older, but Medicare covers it for anyone with Part B who wants it.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Part B covers Shingrix with no out-of-pocket cost when you get it at a Medicare-approved provider.
- You need two doses of Shingrix, given two to six months apart, to complete the series.
- The vaccine is recommended for adults 50 and older, but Medicare covers it for all Part B enrollees.
- If you have a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), check your plan documents or call your plan to confirm coverage and any copay amounts.
- You can get Shingrix at your doctor's office, a hospital clinic, an urgent care center, or a pharmacy such as CVS or Walgreens.
Where to get the shingles vaccine
You can receive Shingrix at your primary care doctor's office, a hospital outpatient clinic, an urgent care center, or a pharmacy such as CVS, Walgreens, or your local supermarket pharmacy. Call ahead to confirm they have the vaccine in stock and that they accept Medicare.
When you arrive, bring your Medicare card. The provider will bill Medicare directly, and you will not pay anything at the time of service. If a provider asks you to pay upfront, ask them to bill Medicare instead — they are required to do so for preventive vaccines covered under Part B.
Some pharmacies make scheduling easier by offering online booking or same-day appointments. If you have a preferred location where you already fill prescriptions, that pharmacy may be the most convenient choice.
Medicare Advantage plans and the shingles vaccine
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan (also called Part C), your plan must cover Shingrix because it is a preventive vaccine. However, your plan may charge a copay, coinsurance, or require you to use an in-network provider. The amount varies by plan and can range from no cost to a standard preventive copay.
Contact your Medicare Advantage plan directly before you get the vaccine. Call the customer service number on your plan card or log into your plan's website. Ask whether there is a copay for Shingrix and which providers in your area are in-network. This five-minute call can save you from unexpected costs.
If your plan charges a copay for preventive vaccines, that copay applies to each dose. So if your plan charges $25 per preventive vaccine, you would pay $25 for the first dose and $25 for the second dose.
What happens if you already had shingles
If you have had shingles in the past, you can still receive Shingrix. There is no waiting period. Getting the vaccine after shingles helps protect you from getting it again, since immunity from a past infection fades over time.
If you currently have shingles or the rash is still healing, wait until the rash has fully dried and crusted over before getting the vaccine. Your doctor can advise you on the right timing. In most cases, this means waiting until the blisters have completely healed, which can take two to four weeks.
Timing your two doses
The first dose and second dose must be spaced two to six months apart. Most people schedule the second dose about three months after the first. You do not need to wait longer than six months, but if you do, you can still complete the series — you do not have to start over.
Mark your calendar or ask your provider to schedule the second dose before you leave after your first shot. This makes it easier to remember and ensures you finish the series. If you miss your appointment window, contact your provider to reschedule — there is no penalty for spacing the doses further apart.
Side effects and what to expect
Common side effects after Shingrix include arm soreness, muscle aches, fatigue, and headache. These usually appear within one to two days and go away within two to three days. Fever and chills can occur but are less common. Most people can return to normal activities the next day.
Serious side effects are rare. If you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe swelling after the vaccine, seek medical attention right away. For typical soreness or mild fever, over-the-counter pain relievers and rest are usually enough. You can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed on the package if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get the shingles vaccine if I have Medicare?
No, the vaccine is not required. It is recommended by the CDC for adults 50 and older, but getting it is your choice. Medicare covers it at no cost if you decide to have it.
Can I get Shingrix if I am on Medicare and also have Medicaid?
Yes. Medicare is your primary payer, so Medicare Part B will cover the vaccine. You do not need to use Medicaid for this service.
What if I got the older shingles vaccine (Zostavax) years ago?
The CDC now recommends Shingrix instead of Zostavax, even if you received Zostavax in the past. You can get Shingrix at least 12 months after Zostavax. Medicare covers both doses of Shingrix.
Will my copay be different if I get the vaccine at a pharmacy instead of my doctor's office?
If you have Original Medicare (Part A and B), there is no copay at any location. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, the copay may vary by provider — some plans charge less at in-network pharmacies. Call your plan to compare.
What if my provider says Medicare will not cover it?
Contact Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to confirm coverage. You can also ask your provider to contact Medicare on your behalf. Shingrix is a covered preventive vaccine for all Medicare Part B enrollees.