Overview
Public Law 119-21 changed the eligibility requirements for Medicare. Under this law, an individual may be entitled to or enrolled for Medicare only if they are:
- A U.S. citizen or national;
- A lawful permanent resident (green card holder);
- Lawfully residing in the U.S. in accordance with the Compacts of Free Association (citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, or the Republic of Palau); or
- A Cuban-Haitian entrant.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) enrolls people in Medicare on behalf of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which administers most other aspects of the Medicare program. SSA follows CMS’ rules for Medicare eligibility based on applicable law.
What should I do if I receive a notice about my Medicare eligibility?
Read the notice carefully. It will explain what steps, if any, you need to take. If you believe you have been incorrectly identified as ineligible for Medicare, please follow the directions in the notice:
- Go Digital! If you have a my Social Security account, sign in to your account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount and select 'Upload Documents' to submit your U.S. citizenship or immigration documents, or
- Call us at 1-844-507-7131 if you live in the U.S., or 855-522-6939 if you live outside of the U.S., or
- Bring your U.S. citizenship or immigration documents into a Social Security local office.
What documents might I need to provide?
You may need to provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship (such as a U.S. Passport or Certificate of Naturalization) or immigration status (such as a Permanent Resident Card (I-551), Arrival/Departure Record (I-94), or Employment Authorization Document (I-766)).
Will my current Medicare coverage end immediately?
No. If you are not eligible under the new rules, your Medicare coverage will generally remain in effect through January 31, 2027, with coverage termination effective February 1, 2027.
Can I appeal if my Medicare is terminated or denied?
Yes. You must submit an appeal in writing within 60 days of receiving your decision letter.
Please use our online appeal form Non-Medical Appeal, Social Security. You can also fill out the "Request for Reconsideration" form,
What if my immigration status changes in the future?
You should contact Social Security for Medicare at that time.
Where can I get more information or help?
Call Social Security at 1-844-507-7131 if you live in the U.S., or 855-522-6939 if you live outside of the U.S. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call TTY 1-800-325-0778. Please mention the letter when you call.
What options do I have if I do not qualify for Medicare under the new criteria?
- Contact your state’s Social Services office to see if you qualify for other programs. Some states have programs that help immigrants who can’t get federal health benefits obtain other types of health insurance.
- If you or your spouse is working, consider enrolling in a workplace health plan.
- Community health centers may be able to provide you with free or low-cost healthcare.