Medicare for green card holders is possible. Those with a green card may be curious about Medicare eligibility. Well, if you’ve been a resident of the United States for at least five years, you may be eligible. Understanding how Medicare works for non-citizens is important. Here you’ll learn when you qualify, how to apply, and everything else in between.
Do Green Cardholders Qualify for Medicare?
Green card applicants can qualify for Medicare without enough work credits. But, you’ll likely need to pay for Part A premiums. Since Part A costs are based on how long you’ve worked in the United States and paid taxes towards Medicare, costs could vary. Those that have worked at least 10 years could qualify for premium-free Part A. Now, Part B is a little different. You’re costs depend on how much you make each year. High-income earners will pay a Part B IRMAA. Also, if you’re eligible for Medicare and delay enrollment, penalties could raise the cost of your premiums if you enroll later on.
When Can a Green Card Holder Apply for Medicare?
You must have established residency for at least 5 years. Once you have residency status, you qualify for Medicare just like any other person. Either by turning 65 or by obtaining Social Security Disability for at least 24 months.
How to Apply for Medicare for Green Card Holders
Everyone applies for Medicare the same, through Social Security. The process is the same for citizens as permanent residents. Once you have Medicare, you’ll want to consider options like Medigap or Part C plans. Then, you’ll want to buy a Part D plan to avoid potential late penalties.
How Do I find Medicare for My Green Card Parents?
Medicare is available to those that qualify. If your parents have been permanent residents for at least 5 years, they may be eligible. Your parents will get Medicare separately, so your mom would need to be eligible on her own terms. And, your dad would need to be eligible on his own terms. Now, if one parent submits enough work hours for Premium free Part A, the other parent can claim off of those hours.
FAQ’s
Do green card holders get Social Security?
Green card holders 10 years of work credits or a spouse with credits to qualify for Social Security.
Are green card holders living abroad eligible for Social Security benefits?
Green card holders can get Social Security benefits outside the United States. But, if you’re out of the U.S for too long, there can be consequences.
Can green card holders apply for disability?
Permanent residents can apply for Social Security Disability, as long as you paid into taxes, you may be eligible.
How Green Card Holders Can Get Medicare
Signing up for Medicare is the same for permanent residents and citizens. Now, undocumented immigrants won’t be able to get Medicare. For those that do qualify for Medicare, we can help you find the best plan to meet your needs. For some, Medicare Advantage plans may be suitable. But, many will find Medigap insurance the most comprehensive.
Here at MedicareFAQ, we can help you find the plan for you. Give us a call at the number above or fill out an online rate form to get your rates now.
Lindsay Engle is the Medicare expert for MedicareFAQ. She has been working in the Medicare industry since 2017. She is featured in many publications as well as writes regularly for other expert columns regarding Medicare. Lindsay is part of the Medicare Marketing Association, the Medicare Supplement Insurance Professionals group, and the DecisionHealth – Medical Practice & Hospital Group. You can also find her over on our Medicare Channel on YouTube as well as contributing to our Medicare Community on Facebook.
ORIGINAL MEDICARE