WHICH PATH IS RIGHT FOR ME?
If you’re set to receive Social Security retirement or disability benefits at least four months before turning 65, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B when you turn 65. For those receiving disability benefits, Medicare starts after 24 months, or immediately if you have ALS. Remember to consider adding Medicare Part D for drug coverage and follow the guidance on this page, keeping your specific timing in mind.
If you’re waiting until you turn 65 or older to collect Social Security benefits, you’ll need to contact Social Security to sign up for Medicare when you’re ready. Depending on your employment status and whether you have health coverage through your employer, you might choose to delay signing up for Medicare upon becoming eligible.
If you need help evaluating your options, we can help.
If you’re waiting until you turn 65 to collect Social Security benefits, you’ll need to contact Social Security to sign up for Medicare when you’re ready. Depending on your employment status and whether you have health coverage through your employer, you might choose to delay signing up for Medicare upon becoming eligible.
If you need help enrolling in Medicare, we are happy to assist.
WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED
If you’re under 65 and receiving Social Security disability benefits, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Medicare after 24 months of benefits or when you turn 65, whichever comes first. You will receive a welcome package with your Medicare card three months before your coverage begins. Be sure to keep this timing in mind.
If you or your spouse are still employed when you turn 65, the process for enrolling in Medicare is slightly different. It’s crucial to understand the right time to sign up to avoid any gaps in coverage or penalties. Depending on your current health insurance through your employer, you might decide to delay enrolling in Medicare Part B. When you’re ready, follow the “Getting Social Security Benefits After 65” path to access comprehensive information and ensure a smooth transition.
End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is a severe and permanent condition where the kidneys fail to function effectively. This stage of kidney failure necessitates ongoing dialysis treatments or a kidney transplant to sustain life. ESRD requires careful management and regular medical intervention to maintain health and quality of life.
It’s generally advisable to sign up for Medicare as soon as you’re first eligible, typically at age 65, to avoid any delays in coverage and potential late enrollment penalties. If you already have Medicare, there’s no need to join the Marketplace, as it doesn’t impact your Medicare options or benefits.
You’ll automatically receive Medicare the same month you start getting Social Security benefits. If you haven’t applied for disability benefits yet, your first step is to do so through Social Security. After that, follow the “Getting Social Security Benefits Before 65” path to access all the necessary information.
After you’re first eligible to sign up for Medicare, you may encounter other opportunities to enroll. Understanding these situations is crucial to avoid gaps in your healthcare coverage and prevent late enrollment penalties. By staying informed about these additional enrollment periods, you can ensure continuous coverage and make the most of your Medicare benefits.
If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you may be able to purchase it. In 2024, the premium is either $278 or $505 each month, depending on how long you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes1.
Who Qualifies for Premium-Free Part A?
You can get Part A without paying a monthly premium if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters). This typically includes most people who have worked in the U.S. and paid Medicare taxes through their employment.