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Who is eligible for Medicare coverage? A guide for High Option members

To get Medicare, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident who has lived in the country for at least five consecutive years.

Medicare is for people who:
  • Are 65 years old
  • Have a qualifying disability and are any age
  • Have specific medical conditions

Medicare is individual insurance

Medicare for those 65 or older is for the individual. So, if you and your spouse are both turning 65, you will both need to sign up for Medicare as individuals.


When is it time to enroll in Medicare?

There are specific time periods during which you can enroll in Medicare. The first time you can enroll is called the Initial Enrollment Period. This is a seven-month period, which starts three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after the month you turn 65.

After you are enrolled, there are specific times for changing your coverage. If you want to make a change, you can do this during Medicare Open Enrollment, which is October 15 to December 7.

To find out about other times you may be able to enroll or make a change, visit Medicare.gov.

How to enroll

It’s a good idea to apply three months before you turn 65. Call the Social Security Administration toll-free number to set up an appointment to apply.

1-800-772-1213
TTY: 1-800-325-0778


More about Medicare and your High Option plan