Many people only know that you can start receiving Medicare when you turn 65. But there are actually three ways people qualify, and therefore, may be eligible for Medicare benefits much earlier in life than 65.
People qualify for Medicare benefits in one of three ways:
- Age (turning 65 or older)
- Disability
- Certain illnesses
Medicare for People Turning 65
Most people know that when they turn 65 they can start receiving Medicare. In general, you are eligible at 65 if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. You can get Part A at age 65 without having to pay premiums if you:
- Receive retirement benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board
- Are eligible to receive Social Security or Railroad benefits but you have not yet filed
- Had Medicare-covered government employment (you or your spouse)
If you qualify for Medicare this way, your Initial Enrollment Period will begin three months before the month you turn 65.
If you (or your spouse) did not pay Medicare taxes while you worked, and you are age 65 or older and a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, you may still be able to buy Part A.
Medicare for People Under 65 & Disabled
An individual can qualify for Medicare when they are under the age of 65 if they have certain disabilities.
Medicare disability plans are issued to anyone who has been issued Social Security disability income for 24 months. On the 25th month, you automatically get enrolled in Medicare, Parts A and B.
There are amazing benefits from the biggest and best insurance carriers all of America. While you may already be receiving Medicare benefits, unless someone has taken the time to walk through your options- based on your location and specific circumstances – you may be missing out on incredible benefits. This includes prescription drugs, dental, vision, phone access to doctors and nurses, massages, and more.
Call the Medicare Benefits Review Hotline and speak with someone who can help you see your options. This service is free but sessions are limited so don’t wait.
Medicare for People Under 65 with Certain Illnesses
In addition to age, specifically turning 65, or having a qualifying disability, individuals can qualify for Medicare if they have certain illnesses such as ERD or ALS.
- End-stage renal disease. To qualify, you must need regular dialysis or a kidney transplant. Your coverage can start shortly after your first dialysis treatment. One thing to note, ff you receive a transplant but no longer require dialysis, you will lose Medicare eligibility.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, patients diagnosed with this terminal disease gain immediate Medicare eligibility.
If you are not sure whether or not you qualify, contact or licensed specialists to see what benefits you might be eligible for.
