Am I Eligible for Medicare?

Let’s find out when and how you qualify.

If you're approaching age 65 — or living with a disability — you may be wondering when Medicare kicks in and what you need to do to get started. We're here to make it simple.

Below is a quick guide to understanding Medicare eligibility.

Turning 65? You May Already Be Eligible

You’re eligible for Medicare if:

If you meet these conditions, you may qualify for premium-free Part A (hospital insurance).

You Can Get Part A at No Cost If:

Under 65? You May Still Be Eligible for Medicare If:

You can get Medicare before age 65 if:

You’ve been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or RRB disability benefits for at least 24 months
You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and need dialysis or a kidney transplant
You have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) — in which case Medicare begins the first month of disability benefits

If you qualify due to disability, your Medicare card is usually mailed 2–3 months before your 25th month of disability.

What About Part B?

Part B (medical coverage) has a monthly premium. If you’re receiving retirement or disability benefits, your premium will be automatically deducted from your check.

If not, you’ll receive a bill every 3 months from Medicare.

If You’re Already Receiving Social Security or RRB Benefits:

Good news — you don’t need to do anything! You’ll be automatically enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B.

You’ll receive your Medicare card and a “Welcome to Medicare” kit 2–3 months before your 65th birthday.

If You’re Not Yet Receiving Social Security Benefits:

You’ll need to enroll in Medicare yourself. You can sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) — a 7-month window that includes:

If you enroll late, your Medicare coverage may be delayed, and you could face penalties.

How to Apply for Medicare

You can enroll in Medicare through Social Security:

When Does Coverage Start?

In most cases, Medicare coverage begins the first day of the month you turn 65. If your birthday is on the 1st, coverage begins the first day of the previous month.

If you enroll during your birthday month or the 3 months after, your coverage start date may be delayed.

Missed Your Initial Enrollment Period?

Don’t worry — you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period (January 1–March 31), and your coverage will start July 1.

Medicare and SSDI (Social Security Disability)

If you’re under 65 and receiving SSDI, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B after 24 months of disability benefits.

Your card should arrive 2–3 months before your 25th month. If it doesn’t, contact your local Social Security office.

Have Questions About Your Eligibility?

Medicare rules can be complex — but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Tailored Medicare, we’ll help you confirm your eligibility, choose a plan, and understand exactly when to enroll — all at no cost to you.

to schedule a free consultation and get your questions answered.