What's the process for signing up for Medicare if I'm already on disability benefits?

Question

Gregory Gudis · Accepted Answer

After being on Disability for 2 years you are automatically enrolled in Medicare even if you have not reached 65 yet.

Larry Dalton · Answer

If you qualify for Medicare Part A and B, you will be eligible for certain plans under the Medicare program and specific advantage plans based on your financial conditions.

Melonie Wood · Answer

Once a person has been on disability for 24 months, social security assigns you Medicare, socoal security will hold back 6 months to see if the disability will resolve itself. There is no age requirement IF a person is on disability

Answered by Melonie Wood on March 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL & AL

Answered by Melonie Wood Medicare Insurance Agent

Shawn Brown · Answer

If you are receiving disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), you will typically be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B after a 24-month waiting period. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Automatic Enrollment Process:
24-Month Waiting Period:

Medicare eligibility begins after 24 months of receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or RRB disability benefits.

You’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare on the 25th month of receiving disability benefits.

Medicare Card Arrival:

Your Medicare card will be mailed about 3 months before your Medicare coverage begins.

Coverage typically starts on the first day of the 25th month of receiving disability benefits.

 Exceptions to the Waiting Period:
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis):

If you have ALS, Medicare enrollment begins the same month your disability benefits start.

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD):

For ESRD, Medicare eligibility usually begins:

After 3 months of dialysis.

Immediately if you receive a kidney transplant.

Manual Enrollment (If Necessary):
If you’re approaching your 25th month of disability benefits and have not received your Medicare card, you can manually enroll by:

Visiting Social Security Administration

Calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)

Visiting your local Social Security office.

Diane Andree · Answer

If you’re under the age of 65 and receiving disability benefits from Social Security, you get Medicare automatically after getting disability benefits for 24 months. You should receive a welcome package with your Medicare card approximately 3 months prior to your Medicare effective start date.

Answered by Diane Andree on April 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY

Answered by Diane Andree Medicare Insurance Agent

Bob Thompson · Answer

Contact Medicare by telephone and they will walk you through the process. You may also make an appointment for an in-person session.

Tasha Riggs · Answer

The Medicare card will automatically come to you if you have disability benefits. You do not need to do anything!

Christopher Villarreal · Answer

If you’re under 65 and have been receiving disability benefits for 24 months, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Medicare. You don’t need to sign up yourself — Medicare will send you your card in the mail around your 23rd month of benefits, and your coverage will begin the first day of your 25th month.

Here’s what you’ll get:
	•	Part A (Hospital Insurance) – Usually free
	•	Part B (Medical Insurance) – Has a monthly premium unless you decline it

You can also choose to add:
	•	Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) or
	•	A Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) for extra benefits

What's the process for signing up for Medicare if I'm already on disability benefits?

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What's the process for signing up for Medicare if I'm already on disability benefits?

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