Medicare Eligibility Age: When You Qualify and How to Sign Up

Who Qualifies for Medicare at 65

Medicare is health coverage for people age 65 and older. It also covers some younger people with disabilities or certain medical conditions.

You become eligible for Medicare automatically on the first day of the month you turn 65. You don't have to wait to reach exactly age 65—Medicare enrollment starts the month of your birthday.

How to Apply for Medicare

You should apply about three months before you turn 65. This gives time to process your application so coverage begins on your eligibility date.

You can apply in several ways:

• Visit Medicare.gov and create an account
• Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
• Visit your local Social Security office in person
• Contact your local Medicare office

Applying is free. Only Medicare decides if you qualify.

What Happens If You Miss the Sign-Up Window

You have a seven-month initial enrollment period to sign up for Medicare. This period starts three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after.

If you miss this window, you may face late penalties. These penalties add to your monthly Medicare costs and usually stay with you permanently. The longer you wait to enroll, the higher your penalties may be.

Even if you're still working at 65, you should consider enrolling. The enrollment deadline applies regardless of your work status.

What Medicare Covers

Medicare has different parts that cover different services:

• Part A covers hospital care, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health services
• Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient services, and medical equipment
• Part D covers prescription drugs
• Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines Parts A, B, and usually D through a private insurance plan

Most people who worked and paid Medicare taxes qualify for Part A at no monthly cost. You usually pay a monthly premium for Part B.

Special Circumstances

Some people qualify for Medicare before age 65:

• People who have received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months
• People with end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
• People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

If any of these apply to you, contact Social Security or Medicare directly to learn about your options.

Next Steps

Start planning about three months before your 65th birthday. Visit Medicare.gov to create an account and review your coverage options. Choose the plan that works best for your health needs and budget.

Questions? Contact Medicare or Social Security. Both agencies can help you understand your coverage options and complete your application at no cost.