Most Americans believe that once they turn 65 that they are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A for free. Of course, we are talking about government health insurance, and nothing is straight-forward when it comes to government programs. There is a separate in-person application process for those that have not earned free Medicare Part A based on their work record.
An at-home spouse typically earns premium-free Medicare Part A through their spouses work record or that of an ex-spouse or deceased spouse. But these individuals must apply in-person or over the phone, they cannot apply online. They must also produce marriage licenses and divorce documents in most cases.
If you are turning 65 and married to someone with large group health insurance coverage you don’t have to enroll in Medicare until your spouse retires. Keep in mind though that it may be less expensive to enroll in Medicare and purchase an Arizona Medicare supplement plan than stay on your spouse’s group plan. If you want to continue contributing to an HSA don’t enroll in Medicare Part A. If you don’t qualify for free Part A based on your own work record you will need to schedule an appointment with Medicare (ssa.gov.)
Premium-free Medicare Part A is achieved when an individual pays Social Security taxes for forty quarters or ten years. For those that have not been employed and paid payroll taxes things can get complex. It is best to create an MySocialSecurity account on ssa.gov to determine your status. If you’re not sure of your status, or call your local Social Security office.
In summary, when turning 65 you may receive free Medicare Part A if your spouse is eligible for Social Security, and you have been married at least one year. Or you were married at least ten years and your former spouse qualifies for Social Security and you are single. Lastly, if widowed but married a minimum of nine months and remain single, you likely qualify for free Part A coverage.