Who’s Eligible for Medicare?

Who is eligible for Medicare? What age do I have to be to receive Medicare? Am I eligible to receive Medicare if I have a health problem or disability? For answers to these questions and more, keep reading. Our financial investing office is dedicated to providing wealth management information for the 21st century.

Medicare Eligibility

If you are 65 years of age, have been a legal resident of the United States for at least five years, and have paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you are eligible for Medicare. Those under 65 who are disabled and have been receiving Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months are eligible to enroll in Medicare. Also, people who get continuing dialysis for end-stage renal disease or need a kidney transplant are eligible for Medicare. Lastly, people who are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance and have ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease are eligible for Medicare.

Medicare Administration and Enrollment

Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Or you can enroll through the Social Security Administration office.

When Can You Sign Up for Medicare?

Medicare enrollment periods are as follows:

  • Initial – at age 65. You have a seven-month initial enrollment period, extending from three months before the month of your 65th birthday to three months after the month of your 65th birthday
  • Special – If you delayed enrollment due to a current employer plan, you will have eight months after the end of employment to enroll in Medicare
  • General – January to March each year

Types of Medicare

Medicare Part A

  • Hospital insurance
    • Covers most inpatient hospital expenses (room, food, taxes)
    • Maximum stay 90 days
    • Medicare covers the first 60 days, except one co-pay of $1,364
    • Days 61 to 90 require a co-pay of $341 per day
  • Also covers skilled nursing care, home health care, and hospice care

Medicare Part B

  • Medical insurance – coverage begins once the $185 deductible is paid
  • Doctors’ services and outpatient care
  • Preventative services
  • Diagnostic tests
  • Some therapies
  • Durable medical equipment

Medicare Part D

Part D covers outpatient prescription drugs. Plans are chosen each calendar year based on your needs. Medi Gap insurance policies customized to your healthcare needs are also selected each year.

Want More Information about Medicare?

For more information about Social Security and Medicare, contact:

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