Enrolling in Medicare with Disability

What to do when you enroll in Medicare while receiving Disability benefits

If you have a qualifying disability, you can sign up for Medicare before age 65.

Your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

If you are eligible for Medicare with Disability benefits – or with certain disability benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board – your initial enrollment period begins on your 25th month of receiving Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI).

infographic showing when disability benefits start and when your initial enrollment period starts and your initial enrollment period ends

You’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B at this time.

disability benefits and initial enrollment period mobile infographic

You’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B at this time.

To find out if your disability qualifies for Medicare
Contact Social Security to know for sure if your disability qualifies for Medicare benefits. If so, you will become eligible beginning on your 25th month of receiving Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI).

How to contact Social Security

If you need to contact the Social Security Administration, use the following information:

1-800-772-1213
(TTY: 1-800-325-0778)

Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monday through Friday

Automated phone services
available 24 hours a day,
seven days a week.

You can also apply for Medicare using the Social Security Administration’s online form.

Questions or Ready to Apply?

Talk to an agent or call 800‑280‑2583 TTY 771 
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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