Who Qualifies for Medicare?
At Lighthouse Medicare Solutions, we help you determine when you qualify and what steps to take next. Most people qualify in one of the following ways:

1. Turning 65
Most Americans become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. Also, you need to be a U.S. citizen, or
have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 continuous years. Many people receive Part A (hospital coverage) with no monthly premium because they (or their spouse) worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters). If you did not work 10 years, you can still enroll. You may just have to pay a monthly premium for Part A.

2. Under 65 and Receiving Disability Benefits
If you are under age 65 and have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for 24 months, you will typically be automatically enrolled in Medicare. In most cases, Medicare begins in your 25th month of disability benefits and includes Part A and Part B.

3. Diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
You may qualify for Medicare at any age if you have permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. Eligibility may be based on your own work history, a spouse's work history, or a parent's work history in certain cases.

4. Diagnosed with ALS
If you are diagnosed with ALS, Medicare begins as soon as your disability benefits begin. There is no 24-month waiting period.

5. Qualifying Through a Spouse
Even if you did not work long enough to qualify on your own, you may still be eligible based on the following criteria. A spouse's work record, you are currently married, divorced (married at least 10 years), or widowed.

6. Enrolling at 65 Without 10 Years of Work
If you or your spouse did not work 40 quarters (10 years), you can still enroll in Medicare at age 65. Part A may require a monthly premium, and Part B has its standard monthly premium.

Important Things to Remember
Medicare eligibility is not based on income and you do not have to be retired to enroll. Enrolling at the right time is important. Waiting too long may result in penalties. Every situation is different, especially if you are still working or covered under employer insurance.

Not sure if you qualify? Lighthouse Medicare Solutions is here to help you understand your options and avoid costly mistakes.