Can I get Social Security benefits without Medicare?
The short answer? It depends on your age.
You can access Social Security benefits without enrolling in Medicare if you do so prior to age 65. If you are 65 or older when you initially access your Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A. Enrollment in Medicare Part B is not required to receive Social Security benefits.
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Is Social Security the same as Medicare?
No. Social Security provides monthly income for people age 62 or older and those with qualifying disabilities. Medicare, on the other hand, is a federal health insurance program for individuals 65 or older or those with certain conditions or disabilities.
If you've paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you're typically eligible for premium-free Part A, which covers hospital stays.
Social Security vs. Medicare: How do they compare?
Many Social Security recipients are also eligible to receive Medicare benefits, and vice versa. See below for more on how the two programs compare.
Eligibility
If a person is collecting Social Security when they turn 65, they are automatically enrolled in Medicare. Likewise, if an individual collects Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for more than 24 months, they become eligible for and are automatically enrolled in Medicare.
When am I eligible for Social Security?
You can begin drawing Social Security benefits starting at age 62 if you have paid Social Security taxes and worked for 10 years or more. Individuals who have not worked for at least 10 years may still be eligible for a monthly benefit based on a current or former spouse’s work history.
If you have certain disabilities and meet the criteria set by the Social Security Administration, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income and/or SSDI regardless of age.
When am I eligible for Medicare?
In order to be eligible for Medicare, an individual must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident for at least five consecutive years. You must also meet at least one of the following criteria for Medicare eligibility:
- You are age 65 or older and eligible for Social Security
- You are permanently disabled and have received disability benefits for at least two years
- You have been diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease)
Enrollment
Both programs require initial enrollment to be processed through the Social Security Administration. When an individual first enrolls in Medicare or if they need to defer Medicare coverage (for example, to go back on an employer plan), they would do so through the Social Security Administration.
Can I get Social Security without enrolling in Medicare?
Yes, if you are under age 65. Once you turn 65, you'll be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare, which includes Part A and Part B. If you have creditable coverage elsewhere, such as through an employer, you can choose to defer Part B. It’s important to know that your Part B premium will apply once you enroll, and it may be adjusted for higher income levels.
Can I enroll in Medicare without drawing Social Security benefits?
If you are eligible for Medicare, you may enroll in Medicare without accessing Social Security benefits.
Premiums
Certain Medicare premiums can be deducted from an individual’s monthly Social Security benefits.
Can my Medicare Part B premium be deducted from my Social Security benefits?
Absolutely. The Part B monthly premium is automatically deducted from an individual's monthly Social Security benefit payment. If you're not drawing Social Security yet, you'll get billed for your Part B premium quarterly.
Keep in mind that even with Original Medicare, you're responsible for 20% of the cost of any Medicare-covered service, unless you have a Supplement plan or are enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program.
Can my Medicare Part D premium be deducted from my Social Security benefits?
Medicare Part D standalone drug plans charge a monthly premium that varies based on the specific plan. This premium is separate from the Part B premium. Insurance companies bill you directly for the Part D monthly premium, but you can contact your insurance company to have your payment deducted from your Social Security benefits.
What if I choose a Medicare Advantage Plan?
Some individuals opt for a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) instead of Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurers. Many include prescription drug coverage and extra benefits, sometimes with lower out-of-pocket costs. They often have large networks and specific coverage rules.
Do seniors pay for Medicare?
Many ask, "Do seniors pay for Medicare?" The answer is yes, in most cases. While Part A is often premium-free due to work history, both Part B and Part D have a monthly premium. As noted earlier, your Part B cost can be higher depending on your income. Assistance is available for those who qualify through a Medicare Savings Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I decline Medicare and still receive Social Security?
No, you cannot receive Social Security benefits without enrolling in Medicare if you are 65 or older, since you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when you first access your Social Security benefits.
However, you have the option to delay Medicare Part B if you choose. If you do so without other creditable coverage, you may face a late enrollment penalty when you sign up later, so it’s important to ensure your existing coverage is creditable.
What is the difference between Medicare and Social Security?
Social Security provides financial benefits, specifically, a retirement or disability pension.
Medicare is a separate federal program that offers health insurance for people 65 and older or those with qualifying disabilities.
Do I have to pay for Medicare if I’m on Social Security?
Yes, most people pay a monthly premium for Medicare Part B, even if they're receiving Social Security benefits. The Part B premium is always deducted automatically from your Social Security check and may be higher depending on your income.
What is a Medicare Savings Program?
A Medicare Savings Program helps eligible individuals with limited income pay for Medicare costs like Part B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. These programs vary by state and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Still have questions?
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