You typically qualify if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters).
If you are still working and covered by an employer's group health plan, you can wait to sign up without penalty until 8 months after the employment or coverage ends. 3. How to Apply how to buy medicare part a
If you do not qualify for premium-free coverage, you can buy Part A. In 2026 , the monthly premium is either $311 or $565 , depending on your work history. You typically qualify if you or your spouse