Can you keep your primary medical insurance if are eligble for disability insurance?

In the United States, if you are eligible for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI), you may be able to keep your primary medical insurance. The rules vary depending on the type of insurance you have and your specific situation.

Medicare

If you are eligible for Medicare, you may be able to keep your primary medical insurance as a secondary payer. This means that Medicare will pay for most of your medical expenses, and your primary insurance will pay for the rest.

To qualify for Medicare as a person with a disability, you must meet one of the following criteria:

* You have worked in a job covered by Social Security for at least 10 years.

* You are under age 22 and have a disability that is expected to last for at least 12 months.

* You are blind or disabled and receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Private health insurance

If you have private health insurance, you may be able to keep it if you meet certain requirements. The rules vary depending on the insurance company and your specific plan.

In general, you will need to show that you:

* Have had continuous coverage for at least 12 months before you became disabled.

* Are unable to work due to your disability.

* Have applied for SSDI.

COBRA

If you lose your job and your primary medical insurance as a result of your disability, you may be eligible for continued health coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). COBRA allows you to continue your employer's health insurance for up to 18 months, but you will have to pay the full premium.

Medicaid

If you are eligible for Medicaid, you may be able to get coverage for medical expenses that are not covered by your primary insurance. Medicaid is a state-run program, so the eligibility requirements vary from state to state.

Other options

If you are unable to keep your primary medical insurance, there are other options available to you. These include:

* Buying a new health insurance plan

* Getting coverage through a government program like Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

* Finding a free or low-cost clinic

If you are not sure what options are available to you, you can contact your state health insurance assistance program (SHIP). SHIPs can provide you with free information and counseling about health insurance options.