You are generally eligible for Medicare starting at age 65. If you or your spouse have paid Medicare payroll taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters), you qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A at that time. Enrollment can start 3 months before the month you turn 65 and lasts for 7 months total. There are exceptions for earlier eligibility if you have certain conditions or disabilities:
- If you are under 65 and have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, you qualify.
- If you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), you are eligible at any age.
Also, automatic enrollment in Part A and B happens if you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits before age 65. Otherwise, you must apply for Medicare around your 65th birthday. In summary, Medicare eligibility:
- Usually begins at age 65
- Can start earlier with qualifying disability (24 months SSDI) or specific diseases (ESRD, ALS)
- Enrollment typically opens 3 months before turning 65 and lasts 7 months
Citizenship or permanent residency is also required. This provides the basic criteria for when you are eligible for Medicare.
