Navigating Medicare as a Permanent Resident

Permanent residents of the United States holding a green card may be eligible for Medicare upon reaching age 65, provided they meet specific residency and work history requirements. Eligibility criteria include being a lawful permanent resident for at least five continuous years and meeting certain work history stipulations. 

Medicare Part A and Part B for Permanent Residents: 

• Premium-Free Eligibility: Generally available to individuals who have accumulated 40 quarters (equivalent to 10 years) of work history in the United States, during which Medicare taxes were paid. These quarters need not be consecutive. Permanent residents may also qualify for premium-free Part A based on their spouse's work history. 
   
   

• If you have fewer than 30 quarters of work history, the Part A premium is $518/month (up from $505 in 2024). 
• If you have 30 to 39 quarters of work history, the premium is $285/month (up from $278 in 2024). 
   
   

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance): 

• Premiums: All beneficiaries are required to pay a monthly premium for Part B. In 2025, the standard monthly premium is $185.00, an increase from $174.70 in 2024. 
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• Income-Related Adjustments: Beneficiaries with higher incomes may be subject to an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA), resulting in higher premiums. Conversely, individuals with lower incomes may qualify for assistance programs to help cover Part B premiums. 

Additional Considerations: 

• Residency Requirement: To be eligible for Medicare, permanent residents must have legally resided in the United States for at least five continuous years. 
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• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birth month, and ends three months after your birth month. 

• General Enrollment Period (GEP): If you miss your IEP, you can enroll during the GEP, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year, with coverage starting July 1. 

It's important to note that Medicare eligibility and premiums are determined by residency duration, work history, and income levels, rather than citizenship status. Permanent residents are subject to the same rules and costs as U.S. citizens regarding Medicare coverage. 
 

Need help navigating Medicare options as a permanent resident? Call our licensed agents at Trusted Senior Specialists today for assistance.

We're here to ensure you get the coverage you deserve! 

 
There is no cost or obligation for a consultation!  
 
We are available Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM CST, 
and on Saturday by appointment. 
You can reach us by calling: 1-855-952-1941 TTY: 711 
By calling this number you may be connected with a licensed agent