Medicare enrollment
Federal health insurance starting at age 65, or earlier for some people with disabilities.
Apply on the official site ↗Goes to Medicare.gov. Applying is free.
Who generally qualifies
People 65 and older, and younger people who have received disability benefits for a set time.
Exact income limits and rules are set by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and can change. Check the official site for current details.
How to apply
- Sign up through Social Security up to 3 months before your 65th birthday.
- Compare plans at Medicare.gov or get free counseling from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
What to have ready
- Social Security number
- Current employer coverage information, if any
Common questions
- Does it cost anything to apply?
- No. Applying through the official site is free. Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to apply for you.
- Do I have to pay it back?
- No. It's a free or low-cost service, not a loan.
- Who decides if I qualify?
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services makes the final decision. This page explains the program in general terms only.
- Where can I find current income limits and amounts?
- Income limits, benefit amounts and deadlines change, so check Medicare.gov for the latest details.
Link checked October 22, 2026. BenefitSearch is not affiliated with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.