Medicare Eligibility

For most people, Medicare eligibility begins at age 65. However, those who have been collecting Social Security disability benefits for at least two years are also eligible. There are also other criteria that allow you to be eligible to get Medicare Benefits

Can I qualify for Medicare?

You are eligible for Medicare coverage at age 65 if you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident and you have lived here (continuously) for at least five years.

If you are under 65, you can also qualify if you meet any of the following standards:

You have end-stage renal disease
You have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
You are permanently disabled and you have been receiving Social Security disability income benefits for two years

Medicare Eligibility - by Part

Part A – You qualify for Medicare Part A coverage at no cost at 65 as long as you or your spouse have worked for at least a decade in the U.S. If you have not worked here for 10years, you may still purchase Part A coverage.

You will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A as long as you have already enrolled in Social Security. If not, you will need to call the Social Security office to enroll.

Your Medicare card will come around one month before your 65th birthday.

Part B – Part B has the same eligibility requirements as Part A. There is a monthly premium, however.

Part C – The only qualification for Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) is, you must first be enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

Part D – You qualify for Part D as long as you are enrolled in EITHER Part A or Part B.

Part E – Similar to Medicare Part C, the only qualification to apply for Part E (Medicare Supplement) is, you must first be enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

Do I have to Enroll in Medicare

Many folks ask if they have to sign up for Medicare. The truth is, you do not, but without other health insurance coverage, you will face a penalty for delaying your Medicare enrollment. Part A is usually free, as long as you worked for 10yrs in the U.S. Plus, if you enroll into Social Security income benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A once you hit 65.

If you have further questions about Medicare Eligibility, give us a call at (702) 582-5605