Medicaid<\/a> either through the Marketplace or directly with your state’s Medicaid agency. <\/p>\nAccording to the SSA, “Just answer ‘yes’ when asked if you have a disability, and we’ll forward your application to your state Medicaid agency<\/em>.” If approved for Medicaid, your coverage might continue even after Medicare starts, giving you peace of mind knowing you’ll be covered through the transition.<\/p>\n}<\/p>\n
Exploring Medicare, Medicaid, and Marketplace options<\/h2>\n
Now, what happens if you don’t qualify for Medicaid? Don’t stress-you could still enroll in a private health plan<\/strong> through the Marketplace while waiting for Medicare to begin. Depending on your income and household size, you might qualify for lower premiums and reduced costs on Marketplace coverage.<\/p>\n“It’s important to explore all your options and see what works best for your situation<\/em>,” says healthcare advocate Sarah. “Whether it’s Medicaid, Medicare, or a private plan through the Marketplace, there are plenty of choices to help you get the coverage you need<\/em>.”<\/p>\nAnother key thing to remember is that if you’re receiving SSDI<\/strong>, there are some exceptions to the typical 24-month waiting period for Medicare. For example, if you have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you can get Medicare coverage faster<\/strong>. In the case of ALS, you’re enrolled in Medicare the first month you receive SSDI. For ESRD, Medicare typically starts after three months of dialysis.<\/p>\nAdditionally, if you’re working while receiving SSDI, you can keep your Medicare coverage for at least 93 months <\/strong>(almost eight years), as long as your disabling condition continues. This means you won’t have to choose between working and keeping your health insurance, a relief for many SSDI recipients. <\/p>\n“Medicare is a lifeline for many older adults and people with disabilities<\/em>,” says one Medicare beneficiary. “It’s a huge relief to know that we have this kind of support when we need it<\/em>.” Another beneficiary added, “I was worried about losing my health insurance when I went back to work, but knowing I can still get Medicare coverage for at least 93 months really eases my mind<\/em>.”<\/p>\nHow much will you have to pay?<\/h2>\n
The cost of Medicare disability coverage varies depending on the part of Medicare and your personal situation<\/strong>. <\/p>\nIn 2024, Medicare Part A has a $1,632 deductible per benefit period<\/strong>. After that, days 1-60 of hospitalization are fully covered. For days 61-90, you’ll pay $408 per day, and $816 per day after day 91 until you use up your 60 lifetime reserve days. After that, all costs are out-of-pocket.<\/p>\nFor Medicare Part B, the standard premium is $174.70 per month<\/strong>, deducted from your SSDI check, with a $240 deductible. After meeting it, some services are fully covered, while others require a 20% co-pay.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n