Can you get Medicare without paying Social Security?
Asked by: Prof. Lennie Rodriguez IV | Last update: October 19, 2025Score: 5/5 (42 votes)
Can you get Medicare if you don't pay into Social Security?
Even if you don't qualify for Social Security, you can sign up for Medicare at 65 as long you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Does everyone have to pay $170 a month for Medicare?
Most people pay no premiums for Part A. For Medicare Part B in 2025, most beneficiaries will pay $185 per month. Certain factors may require you to pay more or less than the standard Medicare Part B premium in 2025.
What are the three requirements for Medicare?
- Be age 65 or older;
- Be a U.S. resident; AND.
- Be either a U.S. citizen, OR.
- Be an alien who has been lawfully admitted for permanent residence and has been residing in the United States for 5 continuous years prior to the month of filing an application for Medicare.
Do I need a Social Security account to apply for Medicare?
Ways to sign up:
(You'll need to create your secure my Social Security account to sign up for Medicare or apply for benefits.)
SSA Announce 3 key Dates! $2,500 & $4,250 Social Security Payments - Direct Deposits Approved!
Is Medicare Part A free at age 65?
Part A (Hospital Insurance) costs. $0 for most people (because they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes long enough while working - generally at least 10 years). If you get Medicare earlier than age 65, you won't pay a Part A premium. This is sometimes called “premium-free Part A.”
What documents are needed for Medicare?
- Your Social Security Card.
- Your original birth certificate.
- Proof of U.S citizenship or legal citizenship status documentation if you were not born in the U.S.
- A copy of your W-2 form.
How to qualify for free Medicare?
People age 65 or older, who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States, are eligible for Medicare Part A. You're eligible for Part A at no cost at age 65 if 1 of the following applies: You receive or are eligible to receive benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB).
What are the 6 things Medicare doesn't cover?
- Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
- Long-term care.
- Cosmetic surgery.
- Massage therapy.
- Routine physical exams.
- Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.
How much money can you have in the bank if you're on Medicare?
eligibility for Medi-Cal. For new Medi-Cal applications only, current asset limits are $130,000 for one person and $65,000 for each additional household member, up to 10. Starting on January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal applications will no longer ask for asset information.
What happens if you can't afford Medicare?
Depending on your state and how you qualify, Medicaid can cover some of your health care and certain Medicare costs, such as premiums, copays, coinsurance and deductibles. If you are eligible for full Medicaid coverage, you also automatically qualify for Extra Help for Medicare Part D coverage.
How to get Medicare without Social Security?
If you aren't eligible for full Social Security retirement benefits at age 65, and you aren't getting Social Security benefits, you can still get your full Medicare benefits (including premium-free Part A) at age 65, but you must contact Social Security to sign up.
Can you collect Social Security if you never worked?
Social Security is an earned benefit. To collect a monthly retirement benefit, a worker must pay into the system for at least 10 years (they need not be consecutive years). Tough rules in place assure that only workers who have met the 10-year qualification can collect retirement benefits.
Who is exempt from paying Social Security and Medicare?
Members of certain religious groups are often exempt. Most foreign academics and researchers are exempt if they're nonimmigrant and nonresident aliens. Self-employed workers who make less than $400 annually do not pay Social Security taxes.
Why are people leaving Medicare Advantage plans?
Key takeaways: People leave Medicare Advantage plans because out-of-pocket costs vary between plans, network restrictions can cause frustration, prior authorization requests can delay care, and it can be difficult to use the additional benefits they provide.
What blood tests does Medicare not cover for seniors?
It's important to know that Medicare won't cover any blood test if it isn't medically necessary. If you seek a blood test on your own, it's unlikely you'll get it covered. Tests not covered may include those for employment purposes, wellness screenings, or routine monitoring without medical necessity.
What is the best supplemental insurance for Medicare?
- Best for extra plan benefits: Humana.
- Best for straightforward coverage: State Farm.
- Best for extensive medical care coverage: AARP by UnitedHealthcare.
- Best for a range of Medigap plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield.
What is the income limit to not pay Medicare premiums?
Californians with an annual income of less than $20,121 for an individual or $27,214 for a couple are eligible for a Medicare Savings Program. These programs provide help from the State of California to pay for your Medicare premiums, and sometimes your deductibles and copayments.
Is there such a thing as free Medicare?
Certain Medicare Advantage plans allow you to enroll with a $0 monthly premium. Keep in mind that a $0 monthly premium won't eliminate every cost associated with your plan. Here's what you can expect: Medicare Advantage plans often have lower copays and most have no deductible.
Is it better to apply for Medicare online or in person?
Turning 65 and Eligible for Medicare
I recommend applying online for people who are eligible for Medicare when they turn 65 and are in their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). It's very convenient, and you can do it 24/7.
How long does it take to get approved for Medicare?
Key Points. When applying during your Initial Enrollment Period, it may take about six weeks to get approval for your application. During a Special Enrollment Period, it can take at least 8 weeks or more to receive approval.