Which of the following is a Medicare eligibility criterion?

• A. 18-64 With Disability
• B. Only for Military Personnel
• C. Only if you have Private Insurance
• D. 65 Or Older

Answer: (D)

Medicare eligibility is primarily based on age, with 65 or older being the standard entry point. This age criterion is the most universally applicable and best reflects how Medicare is typically obtained. There are exceptions for younger people who qualify due to certain disabilities or medical conditions (for example, individuals who have been on Social Security Disability Insurance for a period or those with specific illnesses), but those are not the general rule. Statements suggesting eligibility strictly because of disability at ages 18–64, eligibility only for military personnel, or eligibility only if you have private insurance do not describe Medicare’s basic eligibility framework. Therefore, being 65 or older is the correct criterion.