Can a widow get medicare at 62

Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States primarily for individuals who are 65 or older, as well as some younger individuals with certain disabilities or medical conditions. In general, you become eligible for Medicare at age 65.

However, there are certain circumstances in which a person under 65 can qualify for Medicare, and being a widow or widower is one of them if specific criteria are met:

1. Disability: If you are under 65 and have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) disability benefits for at least 24 months, you may qualify for Medicare.
   
   

2. End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): If you have ESRD, you can qualify for Medicare regardless of your age.
   
   

3. Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS): If you have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), you can qualify for Medicare immediately, regardless of your age.
   
   

If you are a widow and you meet any of these criteria, you may be eligible for Medicare before the age of 65. However, it’s essential to consult with the Social Security Administration or Medicare to determine your specific eligibility and enrollment options. The rules and requirements for Medicare eligibility can be complex and may change over time, so it’s a good idea to get personalized guidance based on your situation.