Intro to Medicare Medicaid Eligibility Requirements

Medicare Medicaid eligibility for dual enrollment applies to certain individuals. Many people assume these programs are identical because they sound similar and both provide medical coverage. However, these services are different. There are varying criteria you need to meet to qualify for Medicare or to qualify for Medicaid.

However, there are certain instances when you could be Medicare Medicaid dual eligible. In these situations, you may be able to receive benefits from both programs. By joining these programs together, you could be able to collect more diverse benefits than you would generally receive from Medicare or Medicaid alone. Therefore, it is important that you understand how the dual eligible for Medicare and Medicaid process functions.

Who is eligible for Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid eligibility is assessed independently. This means that in order to receive benefits from each program, you need to qualify for each one individually. Therefore, if you are wondering, “Who is dual eligible for Medicare and Medicaid?” you need to first make sure you meet the Medicare eligibility requirements. To meet these qualifications, you must be one of the following:

• 65 years of age or older
• A young person with a disability
• An applicant with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Then, you need to meet the Medicaid eligibility requirements. If you are wondering how to become dual eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, you must also be part of a low-income household. If you meet the requirements to enroll in each of these programs individually, you may be able to receive benefits from both.

What happens when you meet the Medicare Medicaid eligibility requirements?

Once you understand the Medicare vs Medicaid eligibility requirements, you need to apply for these programs. If you qualify to enroll in each program, you can begin receiving benefits simultaneously. However, keep in mind that when your coverage overlaps, your Medicare benefits will be paid first. Additionally, remember that dual enrollment benefits can vary by state. For a complete understanding of your coverage, contact your local Social Security office.