Last updated April 2026.
All You Need To Know About Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people age 65 and older. It may also be available to younger people with certain disabilities or end-stage renal disease.
Who Is Eligible for Medicare?
You are eligible for Medicare if you are:
- Age 65 or older
- Younger than 65 with certain disabilities
- Any age with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or ALS
- A U.S. citizen or permanent resident for at least 5 years
What Documents Do You Need to Enroll in Medicare?
To enroll in Medicare, you typically need:
- A birth certificate
- Proof of citizenship (U.S. passport or proof of citizenship document)
- Social Security card or Social Security number
- Government-issued photo ID
Medicare Parts Explained
Medicare consists of four main parts:
- Part A: Hospital insurance (inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing, home health, and hospice)
- Part B: Medical insurance (doctor visits, outpatient services, medical equipment, and preventive care)
- Part D: Prescription drug coverage
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): Alternative to Original Medicare combining Parts A, B, and often D
How to Enroll in Medicare
You can enroll in Medicare:
- Online at Medicare.gov
- By phone at 1-800-MEDICARE
- In person at your local Social Security office
- By mail
Medicare Costs
Medicare costs include:
- Premiums: Monthly payments for Part B and Part D
- Deductibles: Annual amounts you pay before Medicare begins to pay
- Copayments and coinsurance: Your share of the cost for each service or medication
Important Medicare Resources
- Medicare.gov – Official Medicare information and enrollment
- CMS.gov – Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services