Medicare is a federal health insurance program mainly for people age 65 and older, and for some younger people with certain disabilities or qualifying conditions. Medicaid is a joint federal-state program for eligible people with limited income or other qualifying circumstances, and rules can vary by state.

People may qualify for Medicare based on age, disability, ESRD, or ALS. Medicaid eligibility is different and depends on state rules, income, household situation, and other factors.

Yes. Some people qualify for both programs at once. When that happens, Medicare generally pays first for Medicare-covered services, and Medicaid may help with other covered costs after Medicare.

For many people, Medicare starts around age 65, and the first enrollment window is usually the 7-month Initial Enrollment Period: 3 months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and 3 months after. Some people are enrolled automatically, while others need to sign up themselves.

Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B. Medicare Advantage is another way to get your Medicare coverage through a Medicare-approved private plan, and many of these plans also include drug coverage. Medigap works with Original Medicare, not with Medicare Advantage.

Yes. Medicare’s Extra Help program may help eligible people with limited income and resources pay Part D costs like premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. Some people qualify automatically, and others need to apply.

We can help you better understand your options, review coverage questions, explain common Medicare terms, and see whether you may qualify for programs such as Medicaid or Extra Help based on your situation.