Spouse Died — What Changes for Your Medicare Coverage?
If you were on your spouse's employer plan, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. If you qualify for Medicare through your spouse's work credits, confirm your eligibility with Social Security. Survivor benefits may also trigger or continue Medicare.
When This Applies
- Your spouse recently died
- You were covered under your spouse's employer plan
- You may qualify for Medicare through your spouse's work record
- You need to understand survivor benefit implications
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I keep Part A through my spouse's credits?
- Yes. As a surviving spouse, you retain eligibility for premium-free Part A through your deceased spouse's work record.
- What if I was already on Medicare?
- Your own Medicare continues unchanged. You may need to adjust supplemental coverage if you had dual employer plans.
- Can I get Medicare before 65 as a survivor?
- If you qualify for survivor SSDI benefits, you may get disability-based Medicare after the 24-month waiting period.