Medicare Eligibility

New to Medicare · Eligibility

Am I eligible for Medicare?

Most people qualify at 65 — but you may be eligible earlier through a disability or certain conditions. Here’s how to know exactly when you’re eligible, and what to do about it.

Check My Eligibility Call (843) 227-6725
The Short Version

Who qualifies for Medicare?

Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65. If you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters), you’ll also get Part A premium-free. You’re eligible if you’re a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident who has lived here for at least 5 continuous years.

But age 65 isn’t the only path. You can also qualify under 65 if you’ve received Social Security Disability (SSDI) for 24 months, or right away if you have ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

New to all of this? Start with What is Medicare for the basics, or read our full Medicare 101 guide for the complete picture.
Interactive · Quick Check

Which situation sounds like you?

Select the option that fits — you’ll get a plain-English read on your eligibility. This is a guide, not a formal determination; a licensed advisor confirms your exact timing for free.

Choose the one that best describes you:
Pick a situation to see where you likely stand.
You’re likely eligible.

At 65 you qualify for Medicare. If you or your spouse worked 10+ years, Part A is premium-free. Your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before your birthday month — enrolling on time avoids lifelong penalties. Let’s make sure your timing is right.

See How to Apply
You likely qualify early.

After receiving SSDI for 24 months, you’re automatically enrolled in Medicare — often without needing to apply. We can confirm your enrollment date and help you choose the right coverage to go with it.

Talk to an Advisor
You may qualify right away.

With ALS, Medicare begins the month your disability benefits start — no 24-month wait. With ESRD, eligibility usually begins after a set period of dialysis or a transplant. These rules have important details — let a licensed advisor walk you through yours.

Talk to an Advisor
Not yet — but we can still help.

Without a qualifying disability, Medicare generally starts at 65. In the meantime, if you don’t have employer coverage, an ACA / Marketplace plan is your bridge — and we handle both, timing your move to Medicare smoothly when you turn 65.

Explore ACA Coverage
The Three Paths

Three ways people become eligible.

Almost everyone qualifies through one of these.

65

By Age

Turning 65 is the most common path. Premium-free Part A if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years.

24

By Disability

After 24 months of Social Security Disability (SSDI), you’re automatically enrolled in Medicare, even under 65.

+

By Condition

ALS qualifies you immediately; End-Stage Renal Disease qualifies you after a set dialysis period or transplant.

Not sure which path applies to you?

One quick, free conversation and you’ll know exactly when you’re eligible — and what to do next.

Book a Free Appointment Call (843) 227-6725
Keep Going

Once you know you’re eligible.

Here’s where to head next in getting started.

Sign Up

How to Apply for Medicare

Step-by-step, with the official forms you can download and how to avoid costly mistakes.

How to apply
When to Enroll

Enrollment Periods

The windows that matter — and the one deadline that can cost you for life.

See the windows
What It Costs

Medicare Costs

Premiums, deductibles, IRMAA, and the 2026 numbers you should know.

Understand costs
Quick Answers

Eligibility questions, answered.

At what age am I eligible for Medicare?
Most people become eligible at age 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: the 3 months before your birthday month, the month itself, and the 3 months after. You can also qualify earlier through disability or certain conditions.
Can I get Medicare before 65?
Yes. You qualify if you’ve received Social Security Disability (SSDI) for 24 months. You qualify immediately if you have ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), and after a set period if you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
Do I automatically get Medicare, or do I have to sign up?
If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits before 65, you’re usually enrolled automatically in Parts A and B. If not, you need to sign up yourself during your enrollment window. We help you confirm which applies to you.
Is there an income limit to qualify for Medicare?
No — Medicare eligibility is based on age or disability, not income. However, higher earners may pay an income-related surcharge called IRMAA on their Part B and D premiums. See our Medicare Costs page for details.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
You qualify if you’re a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for at least 5 continuous years and meets the age or disability requirements.

Ready to find out exactly where you stand?

A licensed May River advisor confirms your eligibility and timing, then helps you enroll — free, and with no pressure.

(843) 227-6725
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