
To apply for Medicare in New York, you must be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years. You’re generally eligible when you are 65 or older, but you may qualify under 65 through disability or having certain conditions. You’ll be enrolled automatically as soon as you’re eligible if:
How to choose a Medicaid plan in NY?
Choosing a Medicaid Managed Care Plan To find out if you’re eligible for Medicaid, which provides free health insurance coverage to qualifying New Yorkers, visit the NY State of Health, the Official Health Plan Marketplace. If you qualify, the next step is to select a Managed Care Plan. You have 10 days to choose a health plan.
Who is eligible for Medicare in NY?
- You are 65 or older.
- You have been on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for two years.
- You have end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
What is the Medicaid application process in New York?
Most families and individuals must apply for health insurance (including Medicaid) through the New York State of Health program (also called the Health Exchange) online, by telephone, or in person through a Navigator or Certified Application Counselor. You can apply in the following ways: • Online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov (link is external)
Do you qualify for Medicaid in New York?
To be eligible for New York Medicaid, you must be a resident of the state of New York, a U.S. national, citizen, permanent resident, or legal alien, in need of health care/insurance assistance, whose financial situation would be characterized as low income or very low income. You must also be one of the following: Pregnant, or

Who is eligible for Medicare?
Generally, Medicare is available for people age 65 or older, younger people with disabilities and people with End Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant). Medicare has two parts, Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medicare Insurance).
At what age are you eligible for Medicare in New York?
65 years of age or olderIf you are turning 65 within the next 3 months or you are 65 years of age or older, you may be entitled to additional medical benefits through the Medicare program. You are required to apply for Medicare as a condition of eligibility for Medicaid.
Can someone who is not a US citizen get Medicare?
Specifically, you will qualify for Medicare even if you are not a U.S. citizen if you qualify to receive or currently receive Social Security retirement benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB), or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). In any of these cases, you will qualify for premium-free Part A.
What is the income limit for Medicare in NY?
Note: Medicaid allows a $20 deduction from applicant's gross monthly income when calculating eligibility for MSP....Full Medicaid for Dual Eligibles (Individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid)Income at or BelowResources at or BelowSingle:$859 per month$15,450Couple:$1,267 per month$22,800
Who is eligible for Medicaid NY?
Be responsible for a child 18 years of age or younger, or. Blind, or. Have a disability or a family member in your household with a disability, or. Be 65 years of age or older.
Can I get Medicare at age 62?
The typical age requirement for Medicare is 65, unless you qualify because you have a disability. 2. If you retire before 65, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits starting at age 62, but you are not eligible for Medicare.
How long do you have to live in the US to get Medicare?
five yearsYou qualify for full Medicare benefits if: You are a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident who has lived in the United States for at least five years and. You are receiving Social Security or railroad retirement benefits or have worked long enough to be eligible for those benefits but are not yet collecting them.
Can immigrants get Medicare?
No. New immigrants to USA are NOT eligible for benefits like Medicare. Regular residents of the U.S. (citizens, permanent residents, etc.) can get Medicare Part A if they have worked in the U.S. for at least 40 quarters (10 years for most people) and are above the age of 65.
Can green card holders get Medicare?
Can a green card holder get Medicare? To qualify for Medicare for permanent residents, a person must be a U.S. citizen, or legal permanent resident who is past their 65th birthday. Additionally, the person or their spouse must have worked in the U.S. and paid Medicare taxes for a minimum of 40 quarters.
Is Medicare based on income?
Medicare premiums are based on your modified adjusted gross income, or MAGI. That's your total adjusted gross income plus tax-exempt interest, as gleaned from the most recent tax data Social Security has from the IRS.
How much money can you have in the bank if your on Medicare?
4. How to Qualify. To find out if you qualify for one of Medi-Cal's programs, look at your countable asset levels. As of July 1, 2022, you may have up to $130,000 in assets as an individual, up to $195,000 in assets as a couple, and an additional $65,000 for each family member.
How much money can you have in the bank to qualify for Medicaid in NY?
For example, a single person can have up to $15,750 in resources and still qualify for Medicaid. A family of two can have up to $23,100. For non-disabled individuals under 65 who don't receive nursing home care, there is no limit to the amount of assets they can own; Medicaid simply looks at their income.
About Medicare in New York
Medicare beneficiaries in New York enjoy a variety of Medicare offerings, from the federal option of Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, to plans...
Types of Medicare Coverage in New York
Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, refers to federal Medicare coverage. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) are...
Local Resources For Medicare in New York
Medicare Savings Programs in New York: Programs in New York can assist beneficiaries in paying for things like their monthly premiums. Usually in o...
How to Apply For Medicare in New York
To apply for Medicare in New York, you must be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years. You’re genera...
What languages are eligible for Medicare?
You Must Apply for Medicare. This document is also available in the following languages: Spanish, Russian, Italian, Korean, Chinese, Haitian Creole. If you are turning 65 within the next 3 months or you are 65 years of age or older, you may be entitled to additional medical benefits through the Medicare program.
Can medicaid pay for premiums?
If so, then the Medicaid program can pay or reimburse your Medicare premiums. If the Medicaid program can pay your premiums, you will be required to apply for Medicare as a condition of Medicaid eligibility. You may apply for Medicare by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or by applying on-line at: ...
Is Medicare a federal program?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people over 65 and for certain people with disabilities regardless of income. When a person has both Medicare and Medicaid, Medicare pays first and Medicaid pays second. You are required to apply for Medicare if:
What are the different types of Medicare Advantage Plans in New York?
New York has four types of Medicare Advantage Plans, including HMO, PPO, PFFS, and SNP plans. You can only select Medicare Advantage Plans that are available in the New York county where you live. If you move, you’ll need to enroll in a new plan.
How much does Medicare cost in New York City in 2021?
Seniors aged 65 and older and disabled individuals are eligible for Medicare, the federal health care insurance plan. Over 2,000,000 New Yorkers are enrolled in Original Medicare. Medicare Part A can cost as much as $471 per month, depending upon how long you paid Medicare taxes in the past, ...
What is Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan?
If you’re concerned that Original Medicare is leaving gaps in your coverage and you’re paying too many fees, consider a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan, also known as Medigap. Medigap plans can cover copays for Parts A and B, as well as any excess Part B charges.
What is AAA in New York?
Area Agencies on Aging provide a variety of services for seniors in communities across New York. Every county in New York has a local office. AAA offices can provide you with access to a variety of benefits and information about health care choices, including Medicare and resources that can help you with issues, such as wills, estate planning, and health care proxies. AAA offices also help with transportation to medical appointments, provide nutritious meals to needy seniors, and work with other organizations in their communities to promote the needs and interests of older New Yorkers.
Which is better: Medicare or New York?
You have numerous options when you want to choose a Medicare plan. Those who only require minimal health care coverage may find that Original Medicare is their best option. New York’s Medicare Advantage program may be a better choice if you have more extensive health care needs. Medicare Advantage Plans can provide you with the coverage you need, along with additional benefits, such as vision, hearing, dental. Some Medicare Advantage Plans also include prescription drug coverage. You might find that you benefit from purchasing a separate supplemental or prescription drug coverage plan.
How many HIICAP counselors are there in New York?
Located in Offices for the Aging across New York, more than 500 HIICAP counselors are available to answer your questions about your health care options, including Medicare, Medicaid Advantage, Medigap, Supplemental Insurance Plans, and long-term care insurance. This organization provides free, unbiased information for seniors, their families, or their caregivers to help them find the option that best suits their medical situation.
Does Medicare cover prescription drugs?
While Original Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for prescription drugs, you can add a Part D plan for a separate fee. The cost of the plan depends on several factors, including your pharmacy, the drug’s tier, and whether the company that manufactures the drug offers financial assistance to lower its cost.
What percent of people in New York have Medicare?
As of 2018, 39 percent of the people with Medicare in New York had Medicare Advantage plans, compared with an average of 34 percent nationwide. The other 61 percent of residents covered by Medicare in New York were enrolled in Original Medicare. But Medicare Advantage enrollment has been growing in New York, as has been the case nationwide.
How many insurance companies offer Medigap in New York?
There are 12 insurers licensed to offer Medigap plans in New York. 481,178 people had Medigap plans in New York as of 2018, according to an AHIP analysis. New York has among the strongest Medigap consumer protections in the nation.
Why are Medigap premiums higher in New York?
Because of the year-round availability, community rating, and lack of medical underwriting, premiums for Medigap enrollees in New York are generally higher than they are in most other states when enrollees are 65.
How much coinsurance is in Medicare Part B?
Under Medicare Part B, that amounts to an unlimited 20 percent coinsurance. To address the gaps in Original Medicare, most enrollees have some sort of supplemental coverage. More than half of Original Medicare beneficiaries get their supplement coverage through an employer-sponsored plan or Medicaid.
What is Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare, a healthcare insurance program for older and disabled Americans, operates under the guidance of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). CMS is part of the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
How long can you wait to apply for Medigap in New York?
Medigap insurers can impose a pre-existing condition waiting period of up to six months, if an applicant didn’t have at least six months of continuous coverage prior to enrolling. But beyond that, consumers are protected in New York.
How many people will be covered by Medicare in 2020?
As of July 2020, nearly 3.7 million people were covered by Medicare in New York, amounting to about 19 percent of the state’s population. In most cases, Medicare enrollment goes along with turning 65 years old.
When do you get Medicare if you are on Social Security?
You will automatically get Medicare if you get Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board Benefits and you (a) turn 65 or (b) you've received disability benefits for 24 months.
What is the number to call for medicare?
Call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) and say "Agent" to ask questions or apply. (TTY: 877-486-2048)
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a nationwide health insurance program run by the federal government. You can qualify for Medicare if you are age 65 or older and/or if you have certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease (ERSD).
When did Medicare start providing prescription drugs?
Since January 1, 2006, everyone with Medicare, regardless of income, health status, or prescription drug usage has had access to prescription drug coverage. For more information, you may wish to visit the Prescription Drug Coverage site.
How long do you have to be on disability to receive Social Security?
You have been entitled to Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for 24 months. ( Note: If you have Lou Gehrig's disease, your Medicare benefits begin the first month you get disability benefits.)
What is the number to call for Medicare in New York?
1-800-MEDICARE (800) 633-4227 for assistance to find out more about coverage options. TTY users should call (877) 486-2048. Medicare and You Handbook. One-on-one counseling assistance from the New York State Office for Aging Health Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP).
How to contact Medicare for prescription drug coverage?
TTY users should call (877) 486-2048.
What is the 80 percent excess benefit for Medicare?
The 80 percent Medicare Part B Excess benefit, available in Plan G, was changed to a 100 percent coverage benefit. Insurers are also now required to offer Plans A and B, as well as either Plan C or Plan F. Previously insurers only had to offer Plans A and B.
How to contact Medicare Advantage?
For more information about the Medicare Advantage Plans or Medicare Prescription Drug Plans available in your area, visit the federal Medicare website or call 1-800-MEDICARE (800) 633-4227. TTY users should call (877) 486-2048.
What is open enrollment for Medicare?
During the federal Open Enrollment period, current or newly eligible Medicare beneficiaries, including people with Original Medicare, can review current health and prescription drug coverage, compare health and drug plan options available in their area, and choose coverage that best meets their needs. This is the time when Medicare eligible individuals can enroll in Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.
When did Medigap change?
As of June 1, 2010, changes to Medigap resulted in modifications to the previously standardized plans offered by insurers. Medigap plans H, I, and J, which contained prescription drug benefits prior to the Medicare Modernization Act, were eliminated. Plan E was also eliminated as it is identical to an already available plan. Two new plan options were added and are now available to beneficiaries, which have higher cost-sharing responsibility and lower estimated premiums:
How often does Medicare Part B exam?
If you have had Medicare Part B for longer than 12 months, you can get a yearly wellness visit to develop or update a personalized prevention plan based on your current health and risk factors. Again, you will pay nothing for this exam if the doctor accepts assignment. This exam is covered once every 12 months .
How to contact Medicare in New York?
You can access no cost Medicare counseling by contacting the New York Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) at 1-800-701-0501. HIICAP can help you enroll in Medicare, compare and change Medicare Advantage and Part D plans, and answer questions about state Medigap protections.
Where can Medicare beneficiaries get help in New York?
You can access no cost Medicare counseling by contacting the New York Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) at 1-800-701-0501.
What is the income limit for HCBS in New York?
The monthly income limits to be eligible for Medicaid nursing home coverage in New York are $875 (single) and $1,284 (if married and both spouses are applying). The monthly income limits to be eligible for HCBS in New York are $875 ...
How much housing allowance can a spouse have in New York?
In New York in 2020, spousal impoverishment rules allow community spouses to keep a housing allowance ranging from $386 in Western New York to $1,451 in NYC. In New York, applicants for Medicaid LTSS must have a home equity interest of $893,000 or less.
What is extra help for prescriptions in New York?
Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in Medicaid, an MSP, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) also receive Extra Help – a federal program that reduces prescription expenses under Medicare Part D.
What is Medicaid for the blind and disabled called?
Medicaid for the aged, blind and disabled is sometimes called “community Medicaid” or Disabled, Aged and Blind (DAB) Medicaid in New York.
What is the income limit for Medicare?
Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB): The income limit is $1,063 a month if single and $1,437 a month if married. QMB pays for Part A and B cost sharing, Part B premiums, and – if a beneficiary owes them – it also pays their Part A premiums.
What is the eligibility for Medicaid in New York?
For New York long-term care Medicaid eligibility, an applicant must have a functional need for such care. This most commonly means one must require a nursing facility level of care. Furthermore, additional criteria may need to be met for some program benefits.
What is Medicaid in New York?
New York Medicaid Definition. Medicaid is a wide-ranging, state and federally funded, health care program for low-income individuals of all ages. While there are several different eligibility groups, including pregnant women, children, and disabled individuals, this page is focused on Medicaid eligibility for New York senior residents ...
What are countable assets for Medicaid?
Countable assets (often called resources) include cash, stocks, bonds, investments, vacation homes, and savings and checking accounts. However, for Medicaid eligibility purposes, there are many assets that are considered exempt (non-countable). Exemptions include IRA’s and 401K’s in payout status, personal belongings, household items, a vehicle, burial funds up to $1,500, and pre-paid funeral agreements (given they cannot be refunded). One’s primary home is also exempt, as long as the Medicaid applicant lives in the home or has intent to return home, and his/her home equity interest is under $906,000. (Equity interest is the amount of the home’s value of which the applicant outright owns). There is one exception to the home exemption rule, which is if the applicant’s spouse lives in the home. If this is the case, the house is exempt regardless of where the applicant spouse lives and his/ her home equity interest.
How long does it take for Medicaid to look back in New York?
At the time of this update, the look back rule only applies to Institutional Medicaid and is a period of 60 months (5 years) that immediately precedes one’s Medicaid application date.
What is considered income for Medicaid?
What Defines “Income”. For Medicaid eligibility purposes, all income that one receives from any source is counted towards the income limit. This may include employment wages, alimony payments, pension payments, Social Security Disability Income, Social Security Income, gifts, and payments from annuities and IRAs.
Is Medicaid managed care in New York?
Make note, Medicaid in New York is sometimes referred to as Medicaid Managed Care. Medicaid for the Disabled, Aged or Blind (DAB) is also known as NON-MAGI. The American Council on Aging now offers a free, quick and easy Medicaid eligibility test for seniors.
When will the look back period be implemented in New York?
An important change is coming July 1, 2021; the Look-Back Period will be implemented for home and community based long-term care services (formally referred to as Community Medicaid in NY), such as home health care, adult day care, personal care assistance, and assisted living services.
