Medicare for Veterans

Veterans

Your comprehensive guide to understanding how Medicare benefits work alongside VA healthcare benefits for our nation’s veterans.

VA Healthcare

Understanding Medicare and
VA Healthcare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as for younger people with certain disabilities or specific medical conditions. As a veteran, you may also be eligible for healthcare benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which provides a range of medical services to eligible veterans.

How It Works

How Medicare Works for Veterans

Many veterans are eligible for both Medicare and VA healthcare services. Understanding how these benefits work together is crucial for maximizing your healthcare coverage. Medicare typically serves as your primary insurance provider, covering services like doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. VA benefits can complement Medicare by covering additional services or providing care for service-related injuries and conditions.

Application

Medicare Eligibility for Veterans

Veterans in the United States may qualify for Medicare based on age, disability status, or specific medical conditions, similar to non-veteran individuals. Here’s how eligibility typically works:

Age-Based Eligibility: If you are 65 years old or older and eligible for Social Security you are generally eligible for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance).
Disability-Based Eligibility: Veterans under 65 may qualify for Medicare if they have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months or have certain disabilities such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Specific Medical Conditions: Some veterans may qualify for Medicare under special circumstances due to specific medical conditions, such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or ALS.
Enrollment Considerations: Veterans who are eligible for both Medicare and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits should enroll in Medicare to ensure comprehensive coverage. While VA benefits can complement Medicare, Medicare typically serves as the primary insurer for eligible services.
Coverage Options: Eligible veterans can choose between Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) or Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) offered by private insurers. Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage, which can be crucial for veterans needing medications not fully covered by the VA.
Continued VA Coverage: Veterans enrolled in Medicare can continue to receive care at VA facilities, where services are tailored to their unique needs as former service members.

Medicare FAQ's

Got questions? We've got answers

WHEN CAN I APPLY FOR MEDICARE?

You are eligible to apply for Medicare during your initial enrollment period which is a 7 month window. 3 months before turning 65, the month you turn 65 and 3 months after turning 65.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR MEDICARE?

The easiest way to sign up for Medicare is online through SSA.gov or by Calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. You can also visit your local Social Security Office.

WILL I AUTOMATICALLY BE ENROLLED IN MEDICARE?

If you are already receiving Social Security Benefits you will be automatically enrolled into Original Medicare, otherwise you will be eligible to enroll during your initial enrollment period that starts 3 months before your 65th birthday.

WHAT IF I MISS MY INITIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD?

If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period you can sign up during the General Enrollment period that occurs every year January 1st through March 31st. Coverage becomes effective the month following your enrollment date.

ARE THERE PENALTIES FOR ENROLLING LATE?

Yes, there are penalties for not signing up for Part B of Medicare and will be added to your premium.

CAN I GET A REPLACEMENT MEDICARE CARD?

If you need a new Medicare card you can order a replacement card by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or online at the Social Security Administration web site. Make sure you have your Medicare number ready when you call.

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