Medicare Disability Enrollment Guide

People under 65 who receive SSDI benefits automatically qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. Some conditions skip the wait entirely. This guide shows exactly when your Medicare starts and what each part covers.

Your Medicare Timeline

Part A — Hospital

Inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice. Free for most (40+ quarters). $1,632 deductible per benefit period (2024).

Part B — Medical

Doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services. $174.70/mo standard premium (2024). $240 annual deductible. 80/20 coverage.

Part C — Advantage

Private plan replacing A+B. May include dental, vision, hearing. Requires Parts A+B enrollment. Premiums vary.

Part D — Drugs

Prescription drug coverage. Average premium ~$55/mo. Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help) eliminates or reduces this cost.

If you have Medicare and Medicaid, you're a "dual-eligible" — Medicaid pays most Medicare cost-sharing. Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help) for Part D is automatic for dual-eligibles. Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free Medicare counseling. Find your SHIP at shiphelp.org.