What is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, and for some younger people with certain conditions. It's divided into parts that cover different medical services.
If you're 64½ or older (or getting close), you're eligible for Medicare. We explain each part in Spanish.
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, and for some younger people with certain conditions. It's divided into parts that cover different medical services.
Part A covers hospitalization. Part B covers doctor visits and outpatient services. Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines A and B in a single plan, often with additional benefits. Part D covers prescription drugs.
Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with private plans that often include dental, vision, and prescription drugs. Supplemental insurance (Medigap) complements Original Medicare by covering copays and deductibles. We help you compare which fits your health needs better.
Your initial enrollment period begins 3 months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after. Enrolling on time avoids premium penalties.
Part A generally has no premium if you or your spouse worked at least 10 years in the U.S. Part B has a standard monthly premium. Advantage and Supplemental plans vary in cost.
You can qualify if you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with at least 5 years of continuous residency. We help you verify your eligibility.