For most people, the Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare starts three months before their 65th birthday and extends for the three months following it. During this time older Americans can apply for Medicare and start to receive coverage and benefits for their healthcare needs.  

Those with a spouse who is younger and does not yet qualify for Medicare may wonder: does Medicare cover spouses under 65? Let’s dive into the details regarding coverage for younger spouses and see how it can affect Medicare premiums.  

Can my wife get Medicare at 62?  

Getting Medicare for spouses younger than 65 is not typical. Unless your spouse qualifies for disability, they will not be able to apply for Medicare until they also reach age 65. For wives aged 62 or any age under 65, you will need to find coverage options outside of Medicare to ensure all their healthcare needs are met until they officially qualify. While it may be slightly inconvenient to be on separate healthcare plans, it will only be for a few years between you and your spouse turning 65.  

Unless your spouse qualifies for disability, they will not be able to apply for Medicare until they also reach age 65.

When can my spouse get Medicare? 

Many group coverages offered by employers will allow coverage for both you and your spouse. Medicare coverage, however, does not work like typical group coverage health care plans. When you turn 65, you will qualify for Medicare and have the opportunity to receive all the benefits. If your spouse is under 65, they will have to continue using their current health insurance plan or find a different one to ensure they are covered when you switch to Medicare.  

The earliest a younger spouse can get Medicare without qualifying for disability benefits is three months before the month they turn 65. This is the start of the Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare and is the earliest time for applying and receiving healthcare benefits from the program.  

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Younger spouses can help with premium costs

While your younger spouse may not be able to qualify and apply for Medicare before age 65, they may be able to help you qualify for lower premium costs. If you have not worked 10 years paying a Medicare tax, you likely won’t qualify for premium-free Part A. However, if your spouse has worked for longer and completed at least 10 years of paying Medicare taxes, they can also help you qualify for premium-free Part A from Medicare. This can help both of your budgets for health coverage and save money on plans each month.  

Conclusion 

Medicare is only available to those age 65 or those who qualify for disability. Even if you qualify for Medicare, it does not automatically mean your younger spouse will also qualify. Spouses can help with the costs of Medicare Part A if they have worked for at least 10 years paying Medicare taxes. This will help both of you to receive premium-free Part A from Medicare. Overall, Medicare is a fantastic way to ensure your healthcare needs are met after age 65 for both you and your spouse.