Your Trusted Medicare Supplemental Partner
Medicare Eligibility – Who Can Get Medicare?
Medicare is the nation’s health insurance program for seniors, certain younger people with disabilities, and individuals with specific medical conditions.
I’m Jake McGeoy, your local agent, here to make sure you know exactly when and how you qualify — so you can get the coverage you need without missing important deadlines.
Who’s Eligible for Medicare?
You may qualify for Medicare if you are:
- Age 65 or older — You’re eligible if you or your spouse have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
- >Under age 65 with certain disabilities — You may qualify if you’ve been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months.
- Any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) — This includes permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
- Any age with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) — You’re automatically enrolled in Medicare the month your disability benefits begin.
Why Enrollment Timing Matters
- Signing up late can mean paying lifetime penalties for Medicare Part B and Part D. The sooner we review your eligibility, the more options you’ll have — and the more money you can save.
When You Can Enroll
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) – Your first chance to sign up for Medicare.
- Starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month
- Includes your birthday month
- Ends 3 months after your birthday month
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP) – For people who delay Part B because they have employer or union coverage. You can sign up without a penalty within 8 months of losing that coverage.
- General Enrollment Period (GEP) – If you miss your IEP and don’t qualify for an SEP, you can sign up between January 1 and March 31, with coverage starting July 1.
How I Make Medicare Enrollment Easy
When we work together, I:
- Explain exactly when your personal enrollment window opens and closes
- Help you avoid costly penalties by enrolling on time
- Coordinate your Medicare start date with any other coverage you have
- Make sure your plan fits your health needs and budget from day one