Who qualifies for Medicare coverage if they are under 65?

Question

Brian Moore · Accepted Answer

If you’re under the age of 65 and have a disability, you may qualify for Medicare coverage. A qualifying disability is almost any health condition that prevents you from being able to work enough to access employer-sponsored health care benefits. Before you can enroll in Medicare, you must receive Social Security Disability Insurance for two years. If you have end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, that 24-month waiting period is waived.

Answered by Brian Moore on February 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Brian Moore Medicare Insurance Agent

Larry Dalton · Answer

Those that Medicare has approved for Part A and B. 
Of course, there are always other insurance coverages available outside the traditional Medicare system.

Joseph Bachmeier · Answer

Anyone who qualifies for Medicare disability 
You have an open enrollment period and you have another enrollment period at age 65

Bill Green · Answer

People under 65 can qualify for Medicare if they meet certain conditions. The most common reason is receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months. Individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) who require dialysis or a kidney transplant can qualify without waiting 24 months. Those diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) qualify for Medicare immediately after they start receiving SSDI benefits. Some people may also qualify through a spouse’s work history, even if they haven’t worked enough themselves. It’s always a good idea to speak with a knowledgeable Medicare agent to understand your specific eligibility and coverage options.

Answered by Bill Green on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 19 other states

Answered by Bill Green Medicare Insurance Agent

Leslie Helene Sussman · Answer

Please refer back to a previous question on Social Security and Disability.     Disability for 2 years qualifies for Medicare benefits.

Steve Houchens · Answer

Anyone disabled for 24 months become eligible for Medicare at that time which gives you a guaranteed issue time frame for a Medicare Supplement although the premiums are generally higher for clients under 65, and when you reach 65 you will be given another guaranteed issue period and then qualify for regular rates

Answered by Steve Houchens on April 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Ryan Raphael · Answer

A person under the age of 65 can qualify for Medicare if they have a disability, ALS, or end-stage renal failure.

Linda Bolan · Answer

There are certain individuals that would qualify for Medicare.  Individuals who have Social Security Disability Insurance benefits for 24 months are eligible for Medicare.  Individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease and Individuals with ALS.

It's important to understand that receiving Supplemental Security Income along does not qualify someone for Medicare.  The Social Security Administration handles Medicare enrollment, so they are the best resource for detailing eligibility information.

Phyllis Dixon · Answer

The most accurate information is in this document, which mentions starting on page 3 who is eligible including those under 65 special requirements
https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf

Who qualifies for Medicare coverage if they are under 65?

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Who qualifies for Medicare coverage if they are under 65?

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