Quick Answer
Yes. People under 65 can qualify for Medicare if they have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 consecutive months, have been diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), or have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Once enrolled, you receive the same Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D coverage as beneficiaries age 65 and older.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part A & B) | Covered | Same benefits as age-65 enrollees; automatic enrollment after 24 months of SSDI |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Covered | Available to under-65 Medicare beneficiaries; plan availability varies by location |
| Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Limited | Insurers are not required to sell Medigap to under-65 beneficiaries in most states; some states have protections |
| Medicare Part D | Covered | Same prescription drug coverage as age-65 enrollees |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
If you have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 consecutive months, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B on the 25th month. People diagnosed with ALS are enrolled in Medicare the same month their SSDI benefits begin. People with End-Stage Renal Disease can enroll after a waiting period tied to the start of dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Under-65 Medicare beneficiaries receive the same coverage as those who enrolled at 65, including hospital insurance, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans are available to under-65 Medicare beneficiaries, though plan availability varies by location. Many MA plans offer additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs that can be especially valuable for people managing a disability.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Federal law does not require insurers to sell Medigap plans to Medicare beneficiaries under age 65. However, some states - including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin - require insurers to offer at least some Medigap plans to under-65 beneficiaries. Premiums are typically higher than for age-65 enrollees.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com. He is a member and regular contributor to Forbes Finance Council.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare. She trains agents on CMS compliance guidelines.