Medicare coverage is available for eligible Americans who fit certain criteria. The main criteria are that you must be age 65 or older or have a qualifying disability. The disabilities that are covered vary, but End-Stage Renal Disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are two main conditions that will allow you to access Medicare benefits before age 65. Here is more information about qualifying for Medicare.
Medicare Eligibility
If you are 65 or older, you are eligible to apply for Medicare benefits. If you are receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you will be automatically enrolled for Medicare benefits and premium-free Part A benefits. Premium-free Part A may also be available if you or your spouse have Medicare-covered government employment.
Some disabilities may also qualify you for Medicare benefits. If you receive Social Security disability benefits for 24 months, you may qualify for Part A and Part B coverage automatically. You may decide to delay your enrollment if you have qualified employer coverage. You won’t need to sign up for your benefits in most cases, as the enrollment occurs automatically once you qualify. If you want to add prescription drug coverage, you can enroll separately after your Medicare benefits are active.
Qualifying For Medicare Special Needs Plans
Some insurance providers contract with Medicare to administer Special Needs Plans (SNPs). These plans offer customized benefits to individuals who fall into specific demographics. Some Special Needs Plans are structured to only accept beneficiaries who have specific chronic conditions. Others are designed for people in specific social categories or income groups. Speak with a Medicare specialist to learn more about whether you may qualify for a Special Needs Plan.
Find A Medicare Policy
The Fussell Group has a team of Medicare specialists who are highly knowledgeable of the Medicare system. If you are interested in finding a Medicare policy, reach out to
The Fussell Group Insurance Advisors to schedule a consultation.