When can my client enroll in Medicare if they are receiving Social Security benefits?

Individuals receiving Social Security retirement benefits before age 65 (as early as age 62) will be automatically enrolled in Medicare when they turn 65. 

Individuals under age 65 who are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits will be automatically enrolled in Medicare when they receive their 25th month of SSDI benefits.  

Individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are not automatically eligible for Medicare coverage. If an individual receiving SSI also qualifies for Medicare due to:

• Age (65 or older): they may enroll in Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period. 
• Disability (receiving SSDI benefits for at least 24 months): they will be automatically enrolled in Medicare when they receive their 25th month of SSDI benefits. 
• End Stage Renal Disease: they may enroll in Medicare immediately and may also be eligible for 12 months of retroactive Medicare coverage