For most people, Medicare eligibility begins at age 65.
However, if you have been receiving Social Security disability or Railroad Retirement Board benefits for at least 24 months you are also eligible.
Those with End-Stage Renal Disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) are also eligible.
You can enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B at www.socialsecurity.gov, by calling them at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security Office.
Our licensed Medicare agents at Schenck Insurance can help you with any Medicare insurance plans.
Medicare Part A and B eligibility
You are eligible for Medicare Parts A and B at 65 or if you:
- Have been receiving social security disability benefits for 24 months
- Have been receiving certain benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board for 24 months
- Are diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
- Are diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
If you have worked in the United States for at least 10 years, receiving the above disability benefits, or have been diagnosed with ESRD or ALS, you’ll pay no premium for Part A.
In most cases, Part B will have a premium. In 2020, that premium is $144.60 for most people. If you had an income above $87,000 ($147,000 for joint tax returns) in your applicable tax year you will pay more.
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Medicare Advantage eligibility
To get Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, you have to first be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
Medicare Part D eligibility
You must be enrolled in at least one of Medicare Part A or Part B to enroll in a Part D standalone plan.
If you’re getting Part D coverage through Medicare Advantage, you’ll have to have both Parts A and B.
Medicare Supplements eligibility
You must have Medicare Part A and Part B to get a Medicare Supplement plan. You’ll first become eligible once your Part B plan is active.
