How to Get Medicare Before 65
Understanding how to get Medicare before the age of 65 is crucial for individuals who qualify for early enrollment due to certain circumstances. Medicare, the federal health insurance program for Americans aged 65 and older, also offers coverage to those under 65 under specific conditions. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining Medicare before reaching the traditional eligibility age.
1. Qualifying for Early Enrollment
Before you can apply for Medicare before 65, you must first determine if you qualify for early enrollment. There are several reasons why you might be eligible for early Medicare, including:
- Disability: If you have been receiving Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months, you are eligible for Medicare.
- End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): Individuals with ESRD are eligible for Medicare, regardless of age.
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS patients are eligible for Medicare.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Stage 5: Those with CKD Stage 5 may qualify for Medicare.
2. Applying for Medicare
Once you have determined that you are eligible for early Medicare, the next step is to apply for the program. You can apply for Medicare online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Here’s how to apply:
- Online: Visit the Social Security Administration’s website and follow the instructions to apply for Medicare online.
- By Phone: Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to speak with a representative and apply for Medicare over the phone.
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office to apply for Medicare in person. You will need to bring identification and proof of your eligibility.
3. Understanding Your Coverage Options
When you apply for Medicare before 65, you will have the option to enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or a Medicare Advantage plan. It’s important to understand the differences between these coverage options:
- Original Medicare: This includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). You will also have the option to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) to cover prescription medications.
- Medicare Advantage: This is an alternative to Original Medicare and is offered by private insurance companies. Medicare Advantage plans often include additional benefits, such as vision, dental, and hearing coverage.
4. Enrollment Periods
It’s important to be aware of the enrollment periods for Medicare before 65. The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a seven-month window that begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after the month you turn 65. If you are eligible for early Medicare, you can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period or during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you qualify for one.
5. Seek Professional Advice
Navigating the process of obtaining Medicare before 65 can be complex. It’s advisable to seek professional advice from a Medicare insurance agent or a financial advisor to ensure you make the best decisions for your health and financial well-being.
By following these steps and understanding the process, you can successfully obtain Medicare before the age of 65 and ensure you have the necessary health coverage to meet your needs.
