Seniorsurance

Medicare Eligibilty

Medicare is for U.S. citizens and  legal residents living in the U.S. for at least the previous 5 years. You must also meet one of the following requirements: be age 65, younger than 65 with a qualifying disability and have received disability benefits for 24 months, or any age with a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or ALS.

When to Enroll

The timing and method of enrolling in Medicare can vary depending on your specific situation. Here's a general overview of when and how to enroll:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):

• Initial Enrollment Period for Part A and/or Part B: Most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. You have a seven-month window that includes the three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and the three months after to enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B.
• If you're already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you'll be automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B.

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs):

• If you or your spouse are still working and have group health coverage through an employer or union, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. You can enroll in Medicare without a penalty when your employment or group coverage ends.
• There are other SEPs for specific circumstances, such as moving out of your plan's service area or qualifying for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs.

If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may have to pay Medicare Part B or Part D late enrollment penalties. However, will have an opportunity to enroll in Medicare during the General Enrollment Period (GEP), which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. Your coverage will start on July 1 of that year.