Medicare eligibility hasn’t changed in 2022. People above age 65 and others with qualifying disabilities will still be eligible for Medicare benefits. Suppose you are nearing age 65 or meet other requirements that would make you eligible for Medicare. In that case, it’s important that you understand when the best time to enroll will be or if you will be automatically enrolled. At Innovative Senior Benefits, we know this can be a confusing process, but that’s why we’re here to help!
Here’s more information about Medicare eligibility.
What Is Medicare?
Medicare is known as a federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older. Though not everyone automatically qualifies for Medicare benefits at age 65, there are some other requirements you must meet to be eligible to manually enroll in Medicare. Examples include how many years you’ve paid into the program and your citizenship or immigration status.
When Can You Apply For Medicare
You can apply for Medicare starting three months before you turn 65. You have an additional three months to enroll after you turn 65. This is a total of 7 months wherein you can enroll in Medicare. This is called the Initial Enrollment Period, which everyone gets when they first become eligible. The enrollment period only occurs once in anyone’s lifetime.
If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, not to worry! You will have another chance to enroll during the General Enrollment Period, which is from January 1 to March 31 every year. However, keep in mind that enrolling during this period means you will likely have to pay late enrollment penalties, and your coverage will not start until July 1.
Who Can Apply For Medicare?
To apply for Medicare benefits, you must be a U.S. citizen. If you are not from the U.S., you must be a permanent legal resident who has lived at least five years in the United States. To gain premium-free Medicare Part A, you must have also worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least ten years (40 quarters). If you do not qualify for premium-free Part A, there’s no need to worry. You’ll still be able to obtain Medicare coverage, but you will have to pay a monthly premium.
For Part A, if you paid between 30 and 39 quarters worth of Medicare taxes, your monthly premium will be $274. If you paid less than 30 quarters, your monthly premium in 2022 will be $499.
Under Age 65 Medicare
If you are under age 65, you can qualify for Medicare under certain circumstances. For example, individuals who have been diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis are allowed to enroll soon after their diagnosis. Others can qualify after collecting Social Security Disability benefits for a minimum of 24 months.
Learn More About Medicare Eligibility Today!
If you need to learn more about Medicare eligibility, the talented agents at Innovative Senior Benefits can help guide you. Just give us a call to get started with a free consultation or quote.
Comments