Medicare is a federal health insurance program that covers people who are 65 or older, as well as some younger people with disabilities and certain medical conditions. If you are under 65 and need Medicare coverage, you may be eligible under specific circumstances. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of Medicare eligibility for those under 65 and help you understand your options.

Medicare for People with Disabilities

If you have a disability and are under 65, you may be eligible for Medicare if you have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for at least 24 months. Once you have been receiving disability benefits for 24 months, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare. If you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), you may be eligible for Medicare immediately, regardless of how long you have been receiving disability benefits.

Medicare for People with Specific Medical Conditions

If you have certain medical conditions, you may be eligible for Medicare under specific circumstances. For example, if you have been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), you can get Medicare coverage immediately without waiting for the 24-month period. Similarly, if you have been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you can get Medicare coverage regardless of your age.

Medicare Advantage Plans for People Under 65

Medicare Advantage plans are private health insurance plans that provide Medicare benefits. If you are under 65 and have a disability, you may be eligible to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans provide the same benefits as Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), and often include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Some Medicare Advantage plans may have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare.

Medicaid for People Under 65

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for people with limited income and resources. If you are under 65 and meet your state’s Medicaid eligibility requirements, you may be able to get Medicaid coverage. Medicaid covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and long-term care.

In summary, Medicare eligibility for those under 65 depends on various factors, including disability status, specific medical conditions, and income level. If you are under 65 and need Medicare coverage, you may be eligible for Medicare under specific circumstances, or you may be eligible for Medicaid. Medicare Advantage plans may also be an option for those under 65 with a disability. It is important to understand your options and eligibility requirements to ensure you get the coverage you need. Working with a local Medicare advisor will ensure you get the proper coverage. Reach out to Plan Medicare for all of your Medicare needs.