At The Law Offices of Sheryl Gandel Mazur, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of disabled individuals. We provide our clients with comprehensive legal services, striving to address the many legal needs of our clients. For those who are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, this extends to helping with Medicare and Medicaid needs. We understand the terminology and the process can be confusing. With help from our firm, you can receive the medical care and government benefits you need. Please contact our office to schedule a free consultation.
New Jersey Medicare & Medicaid Benefits
Medicare is payable to any retired or disabled qualifying individuals, age 21 or over. If you are receiving Social Security Disability benefits and are 65 years or older, you qualify for Medicare. If you are under 65 years of age but have been entitled to SSDI benefits for at least 24 months, you also qualify for Medicare. There is a 30-month waiting period for coverage to start after the awarded disability onset date. It is strongly recommended that this coverage be supplemented by another plan. The new prescription plan, Medicare Part D, is available with Medicare and reduces, but does not eliminate, prescription costs. Hospital insurance is classified as Medicare Part A. Additional optional coverage includes Medicare Part B (medical insurance), Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage plans) and Medicare Part D (Medicare prescription drug plans).
On the other hand, Medicaid is a program that allows qualified persons, including those receiving Supplemental Security Income benefits or SSI child benefits, access to hospital and medical coverage. Medicaid is automatically offered to Supplemental Security Income recipients. It provides 100 percent prescription coverage. The Medicaid card goes into effect retroactively for three months prior to the onset date.