Original Medicare, Part A and Part B have fairly simple eligibility guidelines for beneficiaries:

• Must be 65 years old or older 
• Someone receiving disability benefits from Social Security or Rail Road Benefits
• If you have End Stage Renal Failure (ESRF)

Most of the time, if you are receiving Social Security benefits, when you turn 65 you will be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare, Part A and Part B. If you wish to purchase a Medicare Advantage Plan, Part C, you will need to purchase that plan in your initial eligibility period.

Last updated on June 15, 2012 by The Steward