Can I get Medicare before age 65?

Yes, you can get Medicare before age 65 if you meet certain conditions. Most people qualify for Medicare at 65, but the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services also covers some younger people.

Who qualifies for Medicare before 65

You may be eligible for Medicare before 65 if you:

• Have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months
• Have end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which means your kidneys no longer work well enough to keep you alive
• Have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig's disease

If you have ALS, you do not need to wait. You become eligible for Medicare right away.

How to apply

You do not need to apply separately for Medicare if you already receive SSDI. Medicare will start automatically after your 24-month waiting period.

If you have ESRD or ALS, contact Social Security or visit Medicare.gov to apply. Applying is free.

Only Medicare decides if you qualify based on your situation. If you have questions about your specific case, a Medicare representative can help.