Medicare is a health insurance program for eligible individuals. It is divided into various parts and covers healthcare expenses such as durable medical equipment, hospice care, skilled nursing facility care, and more. Most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65, but did you know that it’s possible to enroll in Medicare at age 62 if you meet certain requirements? It’s true!
Qualifying For Medicare Under 65
If you are under 65 and have received benefits from Social Security Disability Insurance for 24 months, you will become eligible to enroll in Medicare at 62. You can apply during the 22nd month of receiving disability benefits from Social Security. Your coverage will kick in on the 25th month.
You can also qualify for Medicare at age 62 if you receive Social Security Disability Insurance because you have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also commonly known as Lou Gherig’s disease. This disease impacts the nerve cells that are in the spine and brain. If you have ALS, then the requirement of waiting 24 months to be eligible to enroll in Medicare is completely disregarded.
Last but not least, if you have End-Stage Renal Disease, you will also qualify for Medicare. End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is a chronic kidney disease where your kidneys cannot properly function. You will typically need dialysis or a transplant once diagnosed.
I Don’t Meet These Requirements. Now What?
Suppose you are under the age of 65 but do not meet any of these requirements. In that case, you will have to wait until your Initial Enrollment Period before you can enroll in Medicare. Your Initial Enrollment Period will start three months before your 65th birthday month and will end three months after your birthday month. Overall, this is the period most Medicare enrollees take advantage of if they aren’t automatically enrolled. To be automatically enrolled when you reach your Initial Enrollment Period, you must receive Social Security benefits.
Give Us A Call Now!
Schedule an appointment with us today at Cornerstone Senior Advisors to talk more about your eligibility for Medicare. We’re ready to help you enroll in the coverage you need and deserve!