The answer to this question is quite simple and extremely important to know. In fact, one might already be enrolled and not even know it. That is why we are going to cover everything one needs to know about Medicare, including how it works if you need it, who has access to it, and more.

Who Is Eligible for Medicare?

People aged 65 and older, those with End Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant), and younger individuals with disabilities may be eligible for Medicare. Medicare is available in Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medicare Insurance).

Part A Coverage

Part A is premium-free for those who qualify based on work history; otherwise, monthly premiums are required. For example, if an individual (or their spouse) has worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, they are eligible for premium-free Part A Medicare.

People aged 65 and older are eligible for Medicare Part A without having to pay premiums if:

They are receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits.

They are eligible to receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits but haven’t yet filed for them.

They or their spouse had worked for the government, which qualified them for Medicare.

People can check their eligibility and expected premium amount through the Medicare.gov eligibility tool.

Those who are 65 years of age or older, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and who did not pay Medicare taxes while employed may buy Part A.

People under age 65 can also receive Part A without premiums if:

They are patients who require kidney dialysis or a transplant.

They are entitled to Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for at least 24 months.

Part B Coverage

Medicare Part B covers doctor’s services, outpatient care, and some preventative care. While Part A coverage is free for most people, everyone must pay for Part B if they want it. The premium is deducted from a person’s Social Security or Railroad Retirement check. If people don’t get any of these payments, Medicare sends them bills every 3 months for their Part B premium.