Medicare

Office for the Aging - Medicare

1.How do I know if I qualify for Medicare?

Generally, people who are 65 years of age or older and receiving Social Security benefits qualify for Medicare. People receiving disability benefits for more than two years may also qualify.

2.How is Medicare paid for?

Medicare has two parts:

• Part A - Hospital insurance is paid for by a portion of the Social Security tax.
• Part B - Medical insurance is paid for by a monthly premium deducted from Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or Civil Service Retirement.

3.How do I apply for Medicare?

If you are already receiving Social Security Benefits, you will not have to do anything. You will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B effective the month you turn 65.

If you are close to age 65 and not yet receiving Social Security or Medicare, you can apply for both at the same time. You should apply three months before the month you turn 65.

Visit or call your local Social Security office at (866) 331-7759 or 1 (800) 772-1213.

4.What can Medicare cover?

• Part A helps cover hospital stays, skilled-nursing facilities, home health care, hospice care, blood, etc.
• Part B helps cover doctors’ services, lab work, outpatient care, preventative services, home health care, medical equipment, etc.