Typically, Medicare provides health insurance only to those who are 65 years of age or older, but certain people younger than 65 may qualify. People of any age who suffer from certain disabilities or diseases may be eligible for Medicare hospital insurance. Here's qualify for Medicare if you're under 65.
Instructions
1. Get diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in order to qualify for Medicare before the age of 65 years.
2. Be a disability beneficiary for at least 24 months prior to qualifying for Medicare.
3. Complete the work requirements to qualify for early Medicare. Those who have worked for a long enough period in a federal, state or local government position will meet the requirements set forth by the Social Security disability program (see Resources below).
4. Qualify to receive a disability annuity from the Railroad Retirement Board. Those who meet this criterion will be eligible for Medicare hospital insurance after a predetermined waiting period (see Resources below).
5. Be a disabled widow or widower under the age of 65; a disabled divorced widow or widower under the age of 65; or a disabled child. In most cases, eligibility follows a 24-month waiting period.
6. Meet the criteria for a diagnosis of permanent kidney failure. Medicare allows for special rules for those who receive maintenance dialysis or a kidney transplant, but to qualify you must be insured or receive monthly benefits from Social Security or the RRS, or have worked in a government position for a length of time required to be insured for Medicare.
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