Is Medicare based on income?

You qualify by reaching age 65, or earlier through a qualifying disability or condition, regardless of how much you earn or own. Income does affect two things, but not your right to enroll. First, your Part A (hospital coverage) is premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes long enough; otherwise you can buy in. Second, higher earners pay an income-related surcharge on their Part B and Part D premiums, called IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount). Lower-income enrollees may also qualify for help with costs through programs like Medicare Savings Programs. To understand how your income affects what you pay, reach out to a licensed Goodsurance advisor at 1-888-301-8091 (TTY 711), Mon to Fri 8 am to 5 pm PT.