The eligibility requirements Original Medicare otherwise known as Medicare Parts A & B are tied to age, citizen status, and disability guidelines set by the federal government. This article should provide helpful insight as to those qualification parameters. We also encourage our readers to speak with a licensed insurance agent for additional information and support.

What Are the Qualifications and Who is Eligible for Original Medicare Part A?

Some of the basic qualifications and eligibility for Medicare Part A include:

  • The hospital related expenses of insurance.
  • Based on age most individuals will become eligible at 65.
  • Qualified enrollees must also be a U.S. citizen or be a resident of the U.S. for a minimum of 5 years.
  • Those younger than 65 that have disabilities and people with diseases such as ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease requiring dialysis/kidney transplant) or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – Lou Gehrig’s disease) can qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A.

In order to avoid penalties, it’s recommended individuals sign up for Medicare as soon as they are eligible. Enrollment is also a mandatory requirement for Social Security benefits.

There are qualification parameters as it relates what individuals will pay for Medicare Part A. Most will qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A if you or your spouse have paid Medicare taxes while working for 10 years (40 quarters). Those that have not reached that threshold should expect to pay some sort of monthly premium for coverage based on how many quarters you have worked.

What Are the Qualifications and Who is Eligible for Original Medicare Part B?

Some of the basic qualifications and eligibility for Medicare Part B include:

  • Anyone who is eligible for Medicare Part A is eligible for Medicare Part B.
  • Medicare Part B deals with the medical related expenses of insurance.
  • It shares some of the same eligibility requirements as Part A which is achieving the age of 65 and being a U.S. citizen or be a resident of the U.S. for a minimum of 5 years, along with medically related expenses relating to disability and disease as mentioned in Part A.

Unfortunately, Medicare Part B does not offer a way to qualify into paying a premium-free monthly rate. However, there are income level qualifications that will determine how much you will pay. Monthly Part B premium costs currently start under $200. Expect to pay more if you are a high-income earner. Low-income earners may qualify into receive premium payment financial support. Medicaid is also available to people at lower income levels that have few financial resources. Due the fact that a premium payment is required some people may choose not to enroll or participate in Medicare Part B. People may also choose not to participate because they are getting the coverage they need through an employer.