Disabled on Social Security and qualifying for Medicare is not automatic nor is it immediate. If you are under age 65 and have met the Social Security definition of disability* you may also qualify for Medicare.
* “Disability” under Social Security is based on your inability to work. We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if:
- You cannot do work that you did before;
- We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
- Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
For more details visit the Social Security website.
If you have a long term illness or specific medical condition (such as ESRD) you may qualify for Medicare and a Medicare supplement plan before you reach age 65.
If you are under age 65 and disabled under the ground rules set by Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Act and have been continuously disabled for at least 24 months you may qualify for Medicare. Beginning in your 25th month of disability, Medicare Part A is “automatic” but you have to opt for Part B and Part D.
If you have ESRD and requiring regular dialisys or if you have had a kidney transplant you may be eligible for Medicare after 90 days (instead of 24 months).
You should opt for Medicare Part B at the same time as Part A. You can delay that decision but doing so will cause you to be charged a late enrollment penalty by Medicare rougly equal 10% per year. You can use the Medicare late enrollment penalty calculator to determine the exact surcharge.
The penalty is in addition to your Medicare Part B premium and is payable until you reach age 65. Once you turn 65 you will be given the opportunity to enroll in Part B without the penalty.
Once you become Medicare eligible under the disability rules and enroll in Part B, you should also enroll in a Medicare supplement plan. Most carriers offer Medicare supplement plans in Georgia but many are priced out of sight.
BCBSGA currently has the most affordable under age 65 Medigap plan. You can compare rates and use this link to the Blue Medicare supplement application.
BLUE CROSS NO LONGER HAS THE MOST COMPETITIVE MEDIGAP RATES FOR THOSE WHO ARE DISABLED AND UNDER AGE 65. YOU CAN REVIEW QUOTES USING THIS LINK, OR CONTACT US FOR THE LOWEST MEDIGAP RATES IN GEORGIA.
There are also special enrollment periods for those covered under an employer group plan or certain union plans. Ask about guaranteed issue options as well.
When you enroll during a guaranteed issue time frame a Medicare supplement carrier cannot refuse coverage or charge a higher rate due to pre-existing medical conditions.
We are always glad to assist when you are looking for Medicare plans in Georgia.
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