What You Need to Know About Medicare Eligibility

What You Need to Know About Medicare Eligibility

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, but it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific conditions. Understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial for planning your healthcare needs. Speaking with a licensed agent from Revive Insurance can make this process easier.

Who is Eligible for Medicare?

1. Age 65 or Older

   • People are generally eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. Enrollment begins three months before your 65th birthday and extends for seven months (the three months before, the month of, and three months after your birthday).

2. Younger Individuals with Disabilities

   • If you are under 65 and have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months, you may qualify for Medicare.

3. People with Specific Conditions

   • Individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease) are eligible for Medicare regardless of age.

How to Enroll in Medicare

1. Automatic Enrollment

   • If you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65.

2. Manual Enrollment

   • If you are not automatically enrolled, you can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration. This can be done online, by phone, or by visiting a local Social Security office.

Key Considerations for Medicare Enrollment

1. Initial Enrollment Period

   • This is the seven-month period around your 65th birthday when you can first sign up for Medicare. It’s important to enroll during this time to avoid late enrollment penalties.

2. Special Enrollment Period

   • If you have employer-sponsored health coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare without penalties after your initial enrollment period ends.

3. General Enrollment Period

   • If you miss your initial enrollment period, you can sign up during the General Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, late enrollment penalties may apply.

4. Medicare Advantage and Part D

   • Besides Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you can choose Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) or Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) to enhance your coverage. Enrollment periods for these plans vary.

Talk to a Licensed Agent at Revive Insurance

Navigating Medicare eligibility and enrollment can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. A licensed agent at Revive Insurance can provide personalized assistance, answer your questions, and help you choose the best Medicare plan for your needs.

Call Revive Insurance today to speak with a licensed agent and get the help you need to make informed decisions about your Medicare coverage. Call at (801) 901-8448 or visit us at reviveinsurance.com