On July 30, 1965, President Johnson signed into law the bill that led to Medicare and Medicaid. The original Medicare program included Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Today these 2 parts are known as “Original Medicare.” Over the years, Congress has made changes to Medicare.
Today, you are eligible for Medicare if you are age 65 or older, or, if you are under age 65, based on a qualifying disability or other special situation.
To qualify, you must also be a US citizen or legal resident who has lived in the United States for 5 years, including the 5 years just before applying for Medicare.
If you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board Benefits, you should automatically be enrolled in both Part A and Part B. Your Medicare card should be received in the mail about 3 months prior to your eligibility.
If you are not currently receiving Social Security benefits, depending on your circumstances, you will need to enroll into Medicare yourself. You may go online to SSA.gov/Medicare or call your local Social Security office.
If you are on Social Security disability, you will be automatically enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B after your 24th month of disability. Knowing when your disability started will help you know when to expect your Medicare card in the mail.
One thing to note, Medicare is not the same thing as Medicaid.
Yes, both programs are government programs. Both help people pay for health care. However, that is where the similarity ends.
Medicare is generally for those who are older and disabled.
Medicaid on the other hand, is for those with limited income and resources.
Medicare is administered by the Federal Government, whereas Medicaid is administered by the individual states in which you reside.
Give me a call and we will discuss your situation. Let’s work together to find the best plan for you.