While many people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65, there are a few exceptions for those under 65 to qualify for Medicare. Learn more about Medicare Eligibility and how enrollment works below.
Who is eligible for Medicare before age 65?
If you have been diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or have a qualifying disability, you could be eligible for Medicare before the age of 65.
Eligibility for Medicare Due to a Disability
For individuals with a qualifying disability to receive Medicare benefits, you must have been collecting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months. In some instances, you may be able to qualify sooner for Medicare disability coverage.
If you’ve been collecting SSDI for two years, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B at the beginning of the 25th month. You also have the opportunity to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Medicare Part D) as early as three months prior to the 25th month of your Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
Eligibility for Medicare Due to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
If you have been diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease, Medicare benefits can start as early as the first day after three months following regular dialysis or a kidney transplant. In some cases, coverage can start as early as the first month of dialysis.
Eligibility for Medicare Due to Lou Gehrig’s Disease
Medicare benefits for individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease or ALS) can start when you begin collecting Social Security Disability benefits. Coverage is the same for people who qualify based on disability as those who qualify based on age.
Are you eligible for Medicare insurance? Let SelectQuote help find the right Medicare plan for you.
If you qualify for disability insurance, there’s a chance you could already qualify for Medicare coverage. We can make sure you’re getting the benefits you deserve. There’s no obligation to enroll.
