Can you be eligible for Medicare if you are not 65 yet?

Medicare is the government health insurance program for those who are aged 65 or over. However, in some cases, it may also be available for those who are under the age of 65. If you have been entitled to receive disability benefits for at least 24 months under the Railroad Retirement Board, you are also automatically entitled to receive Medicare Parts A and B. Enrollment in both is automatic. You have the right to refuse Medicare Part B, which is available for a monthly premium.

If you suffer from a disability that qualifies you for Social Security Disability Insurance payments, you may also qualify for Medicare. Qualifications for SSDI include being unable to do any substantial work and having a medical condition that has lasted at least a year or is considered to be terminal. You must also have worked a sufficient number of hours in order to qualify for benefits or be a dependent of someone who has worked sufficient hours to qualify for benefits.

SSDI payments begin once an individual has been considered disabled for five months, but Medicare coverage requires a two-year wait beyond that point. You will then be eligible for Medicare Part A. You will also be eligible for Medicare Part B, which has a monthly premium. Other Medicare programs are available to fill in any gaps in your health coverage, including Medicare Part C and Medicare Part D, which covers prescription medications.

Medicare can also help those under the age of 65 who suffer from end-stage renal failure or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, and who are in need of individual health insurance. Medicare can provide these individuals with critically needed medical coverage for dialysis and other necessary health care.

If you meet these conditions and are in search of a Medicare group health insurance policy, one of our experienced agents can help. Contact us today to learn more.

Visit Medicare.gov for more information about Medicare insurance.

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