what age for medicare

Medicare generally starts at age 65 for most people in the United States. Some people can qualify earlier if they have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS.

Eligibility basics

• Age 65 or older: Most people become eligible then.

• Under 65: You may qualify sooner with a disability, ESRD, or ALS.

• Enrollment timing: Your initial enrollment period begins 3 months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65.

Practical note

If you miss your initial enrollment window, you may face late enrollment penalties.