Medicare is the United States federal health insurance program enacted in 1966 to cover hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) expenses for beneficiaries. Over the years, Medicare has expanded its program to offer even broader coverage, often referred to as Medicare Part C and Medicare Part D coverage.
Medicare in Texas
In addition, Medicare coverage is delivered not only by the federal government, but also by private insurance companies that are contracted by Medicare to provide benefits to beneficiaries. With so many connecting parts and providers of coverage, choosing your Medicare coverage may seem a daunting exercise.
To help you, we’ve pulled together some facts about the parts of Medicare and how they can work together in Texas to help you evaluate which Medicare coverage options are best for you.
Getting Medicare is a major milestone. Here’s where you can get the information you need, no matter where you are in your Medicare journey. Before you choose a path below, check out these 5 important facts:
- Some people get Medicare automatically, and some have to sign up. You may have to sign up if you’re 65 (or almost 65) and not getting Social Security.
- There are certain times of the year when you can sign up or change how you get your coverage.
- If you sign up for Medicare Part B when you’re first eligible, you can avoid a penalty.
- You can choose how you get your Medicare coverage.
- You may be able to get help with your Medicare costs.
How Do You Qualify for Medicare?
Medicare is a federally-funded health insurance program. American citizens living in the United States qualify for Medicare once they turn 65. They may also qualify if they are under 65 and meet one of the following conditions:
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Receive Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months
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Have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
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Have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease)
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Receive Railroad Retirement Benefits
There is no income requirement to qualify for Medicare.
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