What Age Can You Apply for Medicare?

When You Can Apply for Medicare

You can apply for Medicare when you turn 65. Most people become eligible at that age, and enrollment is tied to your work history and citizenship or residency status. If you have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you qualify for premium-free Part A, and you can sign up for Part B at the same time.

Who Can Apply Earlier Than 65

Medicare is not only for older adults. You may qualify before age 65 if you have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, or if you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). People with certain disabilities can enroll once they meet the waiting period, and ESRD or ALS coverage often starts immediately.

How to Apply

Most people do not need to take action if they are already receiving Social Security retirement benefits, because they are automatically enrolled in Medicare at 65. If you are not receiving Social Security, you can apply online through the Social Security Administration website, by calling Social Security, or by visiting your local Social Security office. The Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday month and ends three months after it.

What Happens If You Miss Enrollment

If you do not sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period and do not have other creditable coverage, you may face a late enrollment penalty for Part B. The penalty is 10% of the standard premium for every full 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll. There are special enrollment periods if you or your spouse are still working and covered by a group health plan.

Quick Reference

• Standard age: 65
• Disability waiting period: 24 months of SSDI
• ESRD and ALS: no minimum age, immediate or near-immediate eligibility
• Initial Enrollment Period: 3 months before to 3 months after turning 65
• Late Part B penalty: 10% per year of delay