One of the many perks of getting older is the ability to simplify your health insurance. But Medicare benefits don’t come in a one-size-fits-all package.
It’s important to plan ahead so that you know the ins and outs of Medicare disability benefits in case you’re ever injured on the job. Here are 5 important things you need to know about Medicare disability.
- Age Doesn’t Matter
Did you know you don’t have to be 65 to enroll in Medicare if you have a disability? There are exceptions to receiving Medicare if you’re temporarily or permanently disabled.
If you’ve been receiving social security disability benefits for at least 24 months, you might qualify to switch over to Medicare early.
- Signup is Automatic
For certain people, Medicare disability benefits are automatic. Look for your red, white, and blue Medicare to come in the mail if you’ve been receiving social security disability benefits.
Your Medicare card is usually mailed on your 25th month of receiving benefits even if you’re under the age of 65.
- Prescription Plans Aren’t All the Same
Medicare drug plans all come with their own list of covered drugs. Make sure you take the time to select a drug plan that coincides with your current treatment plan.
If you’re thinking of switching medication in the near future, talk with your healthcare provider before committing to a new plan that includes that drug. You won’t be able to switch between plans throughout the year so it’s a good idea to be sure before making a commitment.
- Medicare Won’t Exclude You From Work
It’s possible to get Medicare disability benefits and still return to work. The key is to prove you are medically disabled.
This is a form of permanent disability that’s covered by Medicare disability benefits. You won’t have to pay for your Medicare for the first 8.5 years after going back to work.
But after that, you’ll be required to pay for Part A on your own.
- Financial Help is Available
Don’t fret if you’re only going back to work part-time and won’t be able to cover the cost of Part A Medicare benefits. You can apply to receive help from your state if you’re experiencing financial hardship.
There’s an application and approval process required so be sure to keep all your pay stubs and financial documents to prove your situation. The program is called the Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) program.
It pays everything from Part A and B premiums to other health-related expenses like deductibles and copayments.
Planning for Medicare Disability Benefits
Medicare disability benefits are usually automatic for anyone with a medical disability. It’s often an extension of social security disability if you’ve suddenly become disable and unable to work.
But some people receive Medicare disability benefits even if they are able to work. These are people with serious medical conditions that limit their abilities on the job but doesn’t keep them from certain types of work.
For more information and tips, visit our blog for updates.
