Can You Get SSDI and Medicare?

If you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance, you may be wondering when you’ll qualify for Medicare and what exactly it covers. Understanding how SSDI and Medicare work together is crucial to managing your health care benefits. In today’s video, we’ll explain the connection between SSDI and Medicare, how to get Medicare coverage after your SSDI approval, and what you need to know about your options for medical care.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people 65 and older. But if you’re under 65 and have been approved for SSDI benefits, you may be eligible too. Once you’ve been approved for ssdi, you become eligible for Medicare. But there’s an important waiting period. You’ll need to wait 24 months from your SSDI approval date before your Medicare coverage starts. After the 24 month waiting period, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare.

This is true even if you’re still waiting for your first SSDI check to come through. When you get Medicare, you’ll have several parts to consider. Part A covers hospital insurance like inpatient care and surgeries. Part B covers outpatient services such as doctor visits and preventive care. Part D is prescription drug coverage, which you may need to sign up for separately. We know the SSDI application process can take time and the 24 month wait for Medicare can feel long if you need medical care now. That’s why it’s important to explore other health insurance options while you wait. Some people who qualify for SSDI also qualify for Medicaid during this waiting period, which provides medical coverage before Medicare kicks in.

If you’re, unsure about your eligibility, we can help you explore those options. Once your Medicare coverage begins, it can significantly reduce your health care costs. But it’s not a one size fits all solution. Medicare doesn’t cover everything. You’ll still need to cover certain certain out of pocket costs like deductibles, coinsurance and CO payments.

You may want to consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan to help cover these gaps. It’s also a good idea to look into Part D for prescription drug coverage. Without it, you may face high costs for your medications. Medicare can be confusing whether you’re new to the program or trying to manage it while receiving ssdi. There are many options to explore like Medicare Advantage or Medigap, which can help feel the coverage gaps. That’s where disability advice comes in. We’re here to help you understand your Medicare options, make sure you’re getting the coverage you need, and navigate the complex process from start to finish.

If you’re receiving SSDI or if you’re in the process of applying, let us help you understand your Medicare benefits. Whether you need guidance during your SSDI application or assistance in reviewing your health care options after approval, we’re here for you. Visit disabilityadvice.org today to see. Schedule your free case evaluation and let our team help you take full advantage of your benefits.