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MEDICARE GUIDELINES
Who’s Eligible for Medicare?
Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65. You don’t have to be retired or collecting Social Security to be eligible. You may also be eligible for Medicare before the age of 65, if you are permanently disabled, or if you have been diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
Private Medicare plans also have eligibility requirements that vary by plan type.
Medicare Eligibility Requirements
- You must be a U.S. citizen or have been a legal resident for five consecutive years.
- You are 65 years or older.
- You receive retirement benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board, or are eligible for them.
- You or your spouse had Medicare-covered government employment.
- You are under age 65, are permanently disabled and have received Social Security disability payments for at least two years.
- You require ongoing dialysis for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or need a kidney transplant.
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Eligibility Requirements for Private Plans
You are eligible if you:
- Are eligible for Medicare Part A (you do not have to be enrolled to qualify)
- Are enrolled in Medicare Part B
- Are a permanent resident in the service area of the plan
- Do not have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
You are eligible if you:
- Are enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
- Are not enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or MSA account
- Are a permanent resident in the service area of the plan
You are eligible if you:
- Are enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
- Are a permanent resident in the service area of the plan
- Do not have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
You are eligible if you:
- Are enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B
- Are a permanent resident in the service area of the plan
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After you've learned all about Medicare, you'll be ready to see the plans we've created to meet your healthcare needs.
Every plan is different — find the right one for you.