Who is Eligible for Medicare?

Medicare can be an overwhelming topic for people to understand. Sometimes finding answers to simple questions is surprisingly challenging including  an answer to the simple question, “Who is eligible for Medicare?”

We’ve got the straightforward answer to Medicare eligibility below.

In general, Medicare eligibility is based on three main qualifications: Age, disability status, or certain medical conditions. People who are eligible for Medicare include:

1. People 65 and Older

• Automatic Eligibility: If you’re 65 or about to turn 65, you’re likely eligible for Medicare. If you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters), you’ll usually qualify for premium-free Part A, which covers hospital stays.
• Enrollment Period: You can sign up for Medicare starting three months before your 65th birthday, during your birthday month, and up to three months after your birthday.
• Spousal Benefits: If you haven’t worked enough to qualify, you might still get Medicare through your spouse’s work history.

2. People with Disabilities

• Under 65: If you’re younger than 65 but have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months, you will automatically qualify for Medicare. This coverage begins after you’ve received disability benefits for two years.
• Special Conditions: If you have certain disabilities like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease), you’re eligible for Medicare as soon as your SSDI benefits begin.
  

3. People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

• Serious Kidney Issues: People of any age who have kidney failure that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant can qualify for Medicare. This includes both hospital insurance (Part A) and medical insurance (Part B).

Medicare offers important health coverage that can make a huge difference in your medical expenses so being as educated as possible only benefits you!

Want more resources about Medicare? Be sure to check out our other informative Medicare-related blogs below!

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Colonial Penn is a private insurance company, not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or Medicare. Colonial Penn does not offer Medicare plans. The information provided relates to general insurance matters.  Insurers and their representatives cannot give tax or legal advice. This article is for general educational purposes related to insurance. Seek personalized advice from qualified tax or legal advisors.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice. For specific Medicare questions, visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227, TTY 1-877-486-2048).We strive for accuracy but make no guarantees. Policies and regulations can change. Verify information with authoritative sources and consult professionals where necessary.