In general, you can sign up for Medicare if you’re 65 or older. If you’re younger than 65, but meet criteria for certain disabilities, you may qualify as well. However, a lot of different factors determine whether a person can sign up for Medicare.
Understand the eligibility requirements below.
Medicare Part A Eligibility
Hospital Insurance
You are eligible to enroll if:
- you’re at least 64 years and 9 months old; or
- you’re under 65 but live with a certain disability or condition; or
- you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
Other things you need to know:
If you already get benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board, you’ll automatically get Part A as soon as you qualify.
Medicare Part B Eligibility
Medical Insurance
You are eligible to enroll if:
- you’re at least 64 years and 9 months old; or
- you’re under 65 but live with a certain disability or condition; or
- you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
Other things you need to know:
Part B is optional. If you decide not to sign up during your first enrollment period, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty.
Medicare Part C Eligibility
Medicare Advantage Plans
You are eligible to enroll if:
- you’re entitled to Part A and
- you’re enrolled in Part B and
- you live in the plan’s service area
Other things you need to know:
We can help you figure out which Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage plan may be best for you. To speak with a Kaiser Permanente Medicare specialist, call: 1-866-973-4588 (toll free) TTY 711.
Medicare Part D Eligibility
Prescription drugs
You are eligible to enroll if:
- you have Part A or Part B
Other things you need to know:
Medicare Part D is optional. If you decide not to sign up during your first enrollment period, you may have to pay a late penalty when you do get started.
