How to Get Medicare If You Are Not Yet 65

Although people primarily associate Medicare with the elderly, people under age 65 who are disabled or in the end stage of renal disease can receive medical coverage under Medicare, too. Medicare recipients under age 65 have full access to Medicare Parts A, B and D to cover hospital, doctor and prescription expenses. You can can also keep any current private health insurance and still receive Medicare. You can enroll in Medicare before age 65 online at the Social Security Administration website.

Instructions

• 1

  Go to SSA.gov. Select "Medicare" in the top menu. Click "Apply for Medicare benefits."

• 2

  Read the online application directions on the next page. Select the bubbles to answer questions about who your are applying for and any visual problems that require accommodation so that you can complete the application online. Read the statement about the privacy of your application information and check the box. Click "Apply for Benefits."

• 3

  Begin the application with your name, Social Security number, address, date of birth, marital status and place of birth. On the following pages, give information about your income, expenses, medical history and any medical coverage you have. Click "Submit" at the end of the application.

• 4

  Send the SSA original documentation of your medical history. Include records and statements of disability from your doctor and a printout from your pharmacy of your prescriptions. The SSA will review your documents, make copies and send the original papers back to you.

• 5

  Wait up to four weeks for the SSA to make a determination. You will receive notice of the decision along with your Medicare card if you are approved. If the SSA denies your application, follow the instructions on the notice to start the appeal process. You must appeal within 60 days of the notice.