Eligibility for Medicare

If you’ve been wondering whether you’re qualified for Medicare, here are the qualifications you need to meet:

• Be age 65 or older
• Be a legal resident living in the U.S. for at least 5 consecutive years 

OR

• If under 65, you can qualify if:
  • You've been collecting Social Security disability for 24 consecutive months (your eligibility begins the first day of the 25th month)
  • You have end-stage renal disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant), or
  • You have ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) also known as Lou Gehrig's disease 

There are many scenarios that could affect your Medicare eligibility. Click on the scenario that fits you best to learn more.

• You are turning 65 and retiring
• You are working past 65
• You are looking to change Medicare plans after enrollment
• You have a qualifying event for insurance, also known as a Special Enrollment Period, or SEP

Are you asking yourself “When am I eligible for Medicare?” If so, use our timeline tool to help you get started.