Turning 65 and Medicare Eligibility

Most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. If you’re age 65 or older and have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters), you may qualify for premium-free Part A coverage.

If you haven’t earned enough work credits, you can still sign up for Medicare, though you may have to pay monthly premiums for Part A and Part B.

Check your Medicare eligibility

See how many work credits you have earned

Still working past 65? Here’s what to consider

If you’re continuing to work after turning 65, you’re still eligible for Medicare. But your choices about health insurance may depend on your employer group health plan and whether you want to delay enrollment. It’s important to understand how your Medicare benefits work with your current health insurance.

Learn how working past 65 affects your Medicare enrollment.

Already on Medicaid? You may have dual eligibility

If you are turning 65 and already receive Medicaid, you could be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. This is known as dual eligibility and may help you qualify for extra help with drug costs and monthly premiums.

Learn more about dual eligibility.

When to enroll: Don’t miss your Initial Enrollment Period

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birth month and continues for three months after. This 7-month window is your first chance to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B.

If you miss your IEP, you may face enrollment penalties that can increase your monthly premiums for as long as you have coverage.

Find your Initial Enrollment Period.

You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you delayed enrolling in Medicare because you had other creditable health coverage, such as through an employer or union.

If you receive disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board, have Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you may qualify for Medicare before age 65.

Explore all Medicare enrollment periods.

Have questions? We’re here to help

We know Medicare can be confusing. Banner Health offers helpful resources and plans to support your journey:

• Learn about Banner Health’s Medicare Advantage plans
• Find out about Banner’s Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)

Call 833-516-1007, TTY 711 to speak with a licensed sales agent.

October 1 – March 31: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week
April 1 – September 30: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday