To get Medicare Part A and B, most people have paid into Medicare through taxes for at least 40 quarters (10 years) over the course of their working lives. They are either automatically enrolled on their 65th birthday, if they are receiving Social Security at that time. Or they enroll themselves in the 3 months before or after their 65th birthday.
Others get Medicare Part A and B for being disabled for 2 years or having end stage renal disease or ALS.
Others get Medicare Part A and B for being disabled for 2 years or having end stage renal disease or ALS.