Ask Larry

Is My Wife Entitled To Medicare?

If my wife has not got enough pay in time to SS, is she entitled to Medicare and if so what entitlement would she have. Thanks

Hi. All U.S. citizens and some resident aliens are eligible to enroll in Medicare at age 65, regardless of whether or not they are insured for Social Security (SS) benefits. Some younger people with a disability or kidney failure can also potentially qualify for Medicare (https://www.hhs.gov/answers/medicare-and-medicaid/who-is-eligible-for-me...). However, if a person isn't insured for SS benefits and if they aren't eligible for benefits based on another person's Social Security earnings, then they must pay a monthly premium for both parts A & B of Medicare. Normally, part A of Medicare is premium free for people who are either insured for SS benefits or if they are eligible for benefits on someone else's account.

If your wife is old enough for Medicare and if you are insured for SS benefits then she can sign up for premium free part A of Medicare if you are at least age 62 or if you're collecting Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits. She would still need to pay a premium if she enrolls in part B of Medicare, though.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Dec 29 2021 - 10:16am
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.