Hi Larry,
I worked in a company and paid 6 years of Social security. After that, i started my own business and have not paid into social security system.. I am 66 now and I heard you can possibly purchased the remaining 4 years in lump sum, is that true?? please advise?? not sure if I can work. Also, can I qualify for Medicare based on social security payments??

Hi,

No. You cannot voluntarily make Social Security tax contributions in order to become insured for benefits. The only way to earn quarters of coverage (QC) is by working for wages or having net earnings from self employment (https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/COLA/QC.html).

Anyone who is a U.S. citizen (or legal alien admitted for permanent residence for at least 5 years) can qualify for Medicare coverage at age 65, but if you don't have at least 40 QCs or qualify on the record of a spouse or ex-spouse you would have to pay for the Part A (inpatient hospital) coverage that is otherwise premium free for people who are insured for Social Security benefits (https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Training/CMSNationalTrainingP...). Also, since you are past age 65, you could likely only sign up for Medicare during general enrollment periods that occur annually from January through March.

Best, Jerry