I am about to be 65; I hv no work credits, no spousal eligibility and no income. I have always volunteered. Am I eligible for Medicare? Dual eligible? What process do I use to apply for either???

Hi,

Yes, assuming you are a US citizen or a non-citizen admitted for permanent US residency that has lasted for at least 5 years, you are eligible to sign up for Medicare at age 65. However, you will have to pay a premium for each part of Medicare in which you enroll. People who are insured for Social Security benefits either through their own work or their spouse's work do not have to pay a premium for part A coverage. For more information about Medicare, refer to this pamphlet: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf.

I believe that you can apply for Medicare online at ssa.gov (https://www.ssa.gov/retire/) even if you aren't insured for Social Security benefits. If not, you can apply by calling or visiting a Social Security office. You can make an appointment to file by phone or in-person by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Best, Jerry