Who qualifies for Medicare coverage if they are under 65?
Answered by 10 licensed agents
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.
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.
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
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.
Individuals receiving social security disability insurance benefits or some railroad retirement board (RRB) disability benefits recipients for at least 24 months, individuals with end-stage renal disease (eligibility based on situation) and people with ALS after 24 months of disability benefits.