Medicare & Age of Eligibility

Most people are eligible for Medicare at the age of 65. The only exceptions are for people younger than 65 who have certain disabilities or who have permanent kidney failure that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Signing Up

• If you already receive Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B effective the month you turn 65. If you are approaching 65 and not receiving Social Security benefits or Medicare, you can apply for both or you can apply only for Medicare. You need to apply three months before the month you turn 65 to avoid a delay of the start date for Medicare Part B. To apply, visit your local Social Security office, call 1-800-772-1213 or apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Part A

• Medicare Part A is hospital insurance. If you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working, you usually don't pay a premium for Part A. However, if not, you may be able to buy Part A for a monthly premium.

Part B

• Medicare Part B is medical insurance and is optional. If you want Part B, you pay a monthly premium based on your income. If you do not enroll in Part B when you are initially eligible and want to enroll later, you may have to pay a late enrollment fee.

Prescription Drugs

• Medicare Parts A and B do not cover prescription drugs. If you want drug coverage, you have to buy a Medicare prescription drug plan, Medicare Part D, from a private insurance company. You must be enrolled in Part A or B to buy a plan.

Alternative

• You also have an alternative to Medicare Parts A and B. You can buy a Medicare Advantage Plan, known as Medicare Part C, from a private insurance company. Medicare Advantage Plans must include all the services of Medicare Parts A and B, except hospice care. Most Advantage Plans also cover prescription drugs.