Who is eligible for Medicare?

Eligibility for Medicare primarily revolves around age and certain qualifying criteria, particularly relating to Social Security benefits. Individuals aged 65 and older are eligible for Medicare, which is a federal health insurance program primarily designed for older adults. This age threshold reflects the demographic the program was intended to support, helping them access affordable healthcare.

In addition, to qualify, the individual must have retired on Social Security benefits, which means they must have paid into the Social Security system for a specified number of quarters during their working life. This connection to Social Security is a critical component of obtaining Medicare coverage, distinguishing it from other health insurance programs.

Other options do not align with the established criteria for Medicare eligibility. For example, individuals who are under 30 do not fit the age requirement, and having private health insurance does not automatically grant access to Medicare benefits. Additionally, eligibility is not limited to only those aged 75 and older, as this narrows the understanding of the broader criteria set out for Medicare enrollment.