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Medicare Eligibility
Medicare eligibility typically commences at the age of 65 for most individuals. Nevertheless, individuals who have been receiving Social Security disability benefits for a minimum of 24 months are also eligible for Medicare. Additionally, there are other specific criteria that can make you eligible to receive Medicare benefits.
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Am I eligible for Medicare?
Medicare coverage can be obtained at the age of 65 if you are a United States citizen or a permanent resident, and you have resided in the United States continuously for at least five years.
For individuals under 65, Medicare eligibility can be established if they meet the following criteria:
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Permanent Disability: If you are permanently disabled and have been receiving Social Security disability income benefits for 24 months.
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End-Stage Renal Disease: If you have been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease.
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): If you have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
Medicare eligibility for Part A
Medicare Part A coverage is provided at no cost starting at age 65 if you or your spouse has accumulated at least 10 years of work history in the United States.
If you don't meet the 10-year work requirement, you have the option to purchase Part A coverage.
Automatic enrollment in Part A takes place if you are already enrolled in Social Security. However, if you are not yet enrolled in Social Security, you will need to proactively contact the Social Security office to initiate your enrollment in Part A.Anticipate the arrival of your Medicare card approximately one month before your 65th birthday.
Medicare eligibility for Part B
The eligibility requirements for Medicare Part B mirror those of Part A. Nonetheless, unlike Part A, Medicare Part B comes with a monthly premium. The specific premium amount is determined by Medicare and may be higher based on your income level.
Eligibility for Part C
To qualify for Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, you must first be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B. Once your start dates for Medicare Part A and Part B are established, you can initiate the enrollment process for a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Part D eligibility
Eligibility for Part D is granted as long as you are enrolled in either Part A or Part B. You have the flexibility to enroll in a Part D plan with only Part A or, alternatively, with only Part B.