As you approach retirement age, planning for your healthcare needs becomes more of a priority than ever before. However, it also becomes more complex. After years of having a private or employer-provided health insurance plan, trying to figure out Medicare and its eligibility requirements can be overwhelming. While your insurance agent can provide a wealth of information, here are the answers to a few common questions people have about qualifying for benefits.

What to Know About Medicare Eligibility 

Who is eligible?

To qualify, you must have turned 65 years old, be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident who has resided in the States for a minimum of the last five years, and either you or your spouse must have been employed in a Medicare-covered work situation for at least 10 years. If you collect Social Security, you automatically become eligible for benefits when you reach 65.

Can I get Medicare if I already receive Social Security disability benefits?

Typically, if you have been receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare. Your coverage will begin exactly two years from the month you first qualified for disability benefits. Depending on the reason you’re collecting disability payments, you may be eligible at a different age and date. 

Do I qualify for Medicare’s Extra Help program?

The Extra Help program is designed to make prescriptions more affordable for low income beneficiaries. Whether or not you qualify to receive assistance through this program will depend on your income and resources. Individuals can only make $18,210 annually and married couples $24,690. Additionally, you cannot own resources in excess of $14,100 as an individual or $28,150 when married — this excludes your vehicle, home, and life insurance policy.

Are my spouse and children eligible for Medicare?

The benefits don’t extend to other family members. Eligibility is based on each person’s specific circumstances. That being said, if you qualify due to having end-stage renal disease, your spouse and dependent children may also be able to receive benefits. 

If you have recently become eligible for Medicare or will be in the near future, don’t hesitate to contact us at Farmers Insurance Group. We will gladly answer all your questions and help to clear up any confusion you may have. Beneficiaries throughout the Ozarks have been relying on us for years to provide them with quality medicare products from a wide array of companies. Visit us online to read customer reviews, or call (417) 926-7900 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable agent about your coverage needs.