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Are New Immigrants, Who are Also Green Card Holders, Eligible for Medicare?
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If you or your elderly parents are new to the United States, and if they hold green cards, you may wonder if you or they can receive Medicare benefits. After all, just because you or they are new to the country, does not mean that your health automatically restores itself. Unfortunately, however, the short answer to your inquiry is no, new residents are not eligible for Medicare benefits. This is true even if you or your parents possess green cards.
Who is Eligible for Medicare?
According to Insubuy, “regular residents” of the United States – “regular” meaning U.S. born, permanent residents, etc. – can get Medicare if they have worked and paid taxes in the United States for 40 consecutive quarters. This equates to 10 years. Individuals must also be 65 years of age or older to qualify for Medicare benefits. That said, if a person has lived in the United States for five consecutive years, has been a green card holder or lawful permanent resident for those five years, and is at least 65 years of age, he or she can buy Medicare Part A benefits. They may be able to purchase Part B and Part D benefits, as well, though everyone who wishes to have access to these benefits must purchase them from the U.S. government—U.S. natives included.
How Much Does it Cost to Buy Benefits?
As of 2018, the cost to purchase Part A benefits is $422.00 a month. This is about average for the cost of health insurance in the United States as of this year. To purchase Part B benefits, a person can expect to pay $134.90 a month. The cost of Part D benefits depends on a number of factors, including the plan one chooses and his or her income.
In short, if you or your parents choose to purchase benefits from the government when you become eligible to do so, you can expect to pay at least $556.00 a month, plus the cost of Part D benefits if you decide you need those.
It is important to note that Medicare Part A, B, and D does not cover every possible medical expense. Just like with private health insurance, there are additional add-ons for unique health concerns. That is why there are Medicare Supplement Plans, or Medigap Plans, sold by private health insurers and designed to cover an insured’s anticipated health costs outside of what Medicare would cover.
What Other Options Do You Have?
Unfortunately, you do not have many options for health insurance outside of purchasing a healthcare plan. VisitorsCoverage.com offers more information regarding how you can go about applying for healthcare as an immigrant and makes suggestions for which types of plans may be right for you.
At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, we understand that your life in the U.S. is bound to be full of complications and challenges that you will have to overcome. Our Chicago immigration lawyers are prepared to help you navigate those challenges and, if possible, work toward a viable solution. If you want to make your new life here as seamless as possible, contact our immigration law firm today.
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Estoy muy complacida con este bufete son muy bueno en lo que hacen,gracias a Maya flores por su trabajo desde el primer día de mi proceso estuvo pendiente y nos dio un tiempo estimado
We had the chance to work with Maya Flores during the final stage of our employment-based green card process, and we are so thankful we did. Even though our case was already far along when she stepped in, she took full ownership right away. She carefully reviewed everything, prepared the documentation, suggested the right immigration forms, and made sure we felt ready. She was with us during the interview and…
I highly recommend Attorney Mathew Kriezelman and Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC. I had an outstanding experience working with their office. I petitioned for my parents, and the firm guided them through the entire adjustment of status process. From the very beginning, Attorney Mathew Kriezelman and Paralegal Silvia Dimayuga were professional, knowledgeable, and exceptionally supportive. They clearly explained each step, ensured all documentation was properly prepared, and promptly answered every…
Navigating the immigration system is incredibly stressful, but Justin Burton made the process seamless. They were patient with all my questions and explained every step of the legal process in a way I could easily understand. Their attention to detail is unmatched, and their staff is professional and kind. Highly recommended!
I cannot thank Justin Burton enough for their incredible work on my case. From our very first consultation, I felt a sense of relief knowing I was in expert hands. They were meticulous with the paperwork, always kept me updated, and ultimately helped me achieve a successful outcome. If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who truly cares about their clients, look no further.
Outstanding Immigration Attorney – Worth Every Penny I cannot recommend Justin highly enough as an immigration attorney. My case was extremely difficult and complex, and from the very beginning, Justin demonstrated an exceptional level of knowledge, professionalism, and dedication. He took the time to fully understand every detail of my situation and explained the entire legal process clearly and honestly, which gave me confidence during a very stressful time. While…
I highly recommend this law firm! They are always honest right from the initial consultation. They don't take cases just for the money. My family member was a victim of an ICE raid in Michigan on November 17th and returned home on December 30th. It could have been faster, but everything happened during the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas). Maya Flores was recommended by another lawyer, and the entire team has…
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all your help and professionalism throughout my green card and citizenship process. Your guidance has made everything much easier to understand, and I truly appreciate how patient, thorough, and responsive you’ve been with every question I had. I’m very grateful for your support and the quality of your work. I would gladly recommend your services to anyone who needs…
My experience with Kriezelman Burton & Associates was excellent. We worked with Jennifer Peyton, for removal proceedings due to being detained by ICE. Jennifer worked diligently and was responsive. Jennifer was supportive throughout the whole process and showed compassion. With the help of Jennifer and the help of the firm, we were able to get the removal proceedings stopped and received permanent residency. I am so thankful for Kriezelman Burton…
The Best human being to have your back when you really need it!!! Mr Burton's professionalism and sharpness saved my family....!!!!!
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