How you get Medicare before 65
The most common path is Social Security Disability Insurance. After you have received those benefits for 24 months, Medicare usually starts automatically. Your Medicare card arrives in the mail before your start date.
Two groups can get Medicare sooner. People with ALS, also called Lou Gehrig's disease, can join as soon as disability pay starts. People with lasting kidney failure may join after dialysis starts or after a transplant.
What you pay and what you get
Part B has a monthly premium and other cost-sharing rules. Some people pay an income-related adjustment. Check Medicare's current figures and any notice from Social Security before budgeting.
You can also choose Part D drug coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan. Read about Part D and Medicare Advantage to see how each works.
Medigap rules in New Jersey for younger people
New Jersey has special protections. These come from the state's Medicare Supplement Under 50 program page.
- Under 50: one contracted carrier must issue coverage if you apply within 12 months after you enroll in Part B. This holds if your Medicare began on or after January 1, 2020.
- Age 50 through 64: carriers that sell Medigap to people 65 and older must also offer you a plan. Apply within 12 months after you enroll in Part B. The same 2020 date applies.
- Which plan: for people who became eligible on or after January 1, 2020, the plan offered under both rules is Plan D.
- Pricing: carriers may not charge more than they charge a 65-year-old for the same plan.
We checked these rules on the state page on October 24,. Dates matter, so confirm them before you apply.
Our Medigap guide explains the rest.
Medicare Advantage and special needs plans
Many Medicare Advantage plans are open to people under 65. Some are built for people who have certain conditions or Medicaid. Read about dual eligible special needs plans if you also have Medicaid.
Check each plan's network and drug list carefully, since your needs may differ from those of an older enrollee.
When you turn 65
Your plan choices may change when you turn 65. You may have a new Medigap Open Enrollment Period, and a new chance to review your options. Mark your 65th birthday on your calendar well before it comes.
Our turning 65 page explains the dates. It helps to review your plan one to two months before your birthday.
Help paying for costs
Many people on disability have limited income. New Jersey programs such as the Medicare Savings Program, Extra Help and NJ FamilyCare ABD may lower costs. PAAD may also help adults 18 to 64 who get Social Security disability pay.
Medicare under 65 in Brick, NJ: where to start
Start with Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to confirm your Medicare dates. Then call New Jersey SHIP at 1-800-792-8820 for counseling that does not sell plans, or call an insurance professional.
Keep reading
This page is part of the Getting Started library, inside our Medicare insurance guide for Brick, NJ. Related pages:
Unfamiliar word? Check the Medicare glossary.
Talk through Medicare if you are under 65
Your timing depends on when Medicare began. An insurance professional can explain the plans available where you live, and the New Jersey Medigap rules that apply to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Medicare start if I am on disability?
Usually after you have received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months. People with ALS may start sooner.
Can I buy Medigap if I am under 65?
In New Jersey, yes. State rules cover people under 50 and people 50 to 64. You generally apply within 12 months after enrolling in Part B.
What Medigap plan is offered to younger people in New Jersey?
If your Medicare began on or after January 1, 2020, Plan D is the plan offered under the state rules.
Do I pay for Part A?
Most people who get Medicare before 65 pay no Part A premium. Part B has a monthly premium.
What happens when I turn 65?
You may get new plan choices. Review your options in the months before your birthday.