Social Security Disability benefits can be confusing to navigate. If you have ever asked the question, “Can my wife get Medicare if I’m on disability?” you need to look no further, as we can help provide you with expert answers.
It is essential to understand all of the Social Security Disability benefits guidelines to help you and your family stay safe and secure. Individuals often come to us with questions about the application process and what to do once you start receiving benefits. Let us help you understand how your family might be eligible for additional qualifications.
Need immediate assistance understanding how disability benefits interact? Contact us!
Medicare Considerations for Spouses
Medicare is unlike employer coverage programs, as Medicare does not automatically cover your spouse if you are eligible.
Medicare is only eligible to those in financial need, retirement age, certain children, and disabled. If your spouse is 65 or disabled, they will qualify for medical coverage.
Medicare includes multiple elements to consider when enrolling for coverage:
- Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
- Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
- Medicare Part C (Private Insurance approved by Medicare)
- Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)
SSDI Qualifications for Medicare
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a work-based disability program that pays benefits based on work history.
A disabled person will qualify for Medicare two years after the initial entitlement date, which is the date from which an individual is declared disabled (this is also the date that back pay is paid from).
However, Medicare is not free, even for individuals receiving SSDI, as there are still premiums, deductibles, and co-pays, with costs updating each year. The 2020 Medicare costs for Parts A, B, and D can be found at Medicare.gov.
Consider Spouse’s Retirement Benefits
There is such a program that allows for your spouse to receive Social Security Disability benefits on your work account.
If you and your spouse have been married for at least one year, and your spouse is 62 years of age or older, then your spouse will be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits.
However, it is important to note that if your spouse is eligible for Social Security benefits on their own work record, then they will be required to receive benefits based on their record and not yours.
Likewise, if your spouse collects benefits before full retirement age, they will be hit with the early retirement penalty. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the benefit is reduced by 5/9 of one percent for each month before normal retirement age, up to 36 months.
Need Assistance With the Disability Application Process?
If you are currently on disability and want to discuss the specific details of whether your spouse can enroll in Medicare, talk to us about how these programs interact.
Our team of disability benefits experts can walk you through the process and help you find the best approach to receiving the benefits needed to support your family. This may include helping your spouse apply for their own disability benefits.
To find help on the journey, complete this free evaluation form. We’re here to help!