IRMAA Basics
Understanding the 24-Month Waiting Period for Medicare and SSDI
Verified against SSA POMS as of September 17, 2026
The short answer
Medicare eligibility for those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) typically begins after a 24-month waiting period. Exceptions exist, such as for individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), wherein the waiting period is waived.
General Rule for the Waiting Period
Individuals entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits typically must wait 24 months before becoming eligible for Medicare coverage. This period starts from the first month of entitlement to SSDI benefits. The 24-month period serves as a qualification period for Medicare coverage.
DI 11035.001 View source ›Counting Previous Entitlement Periods
The Social Security Administration may count months from previous periods of disability benefit entitlement toward the 24-month Medicare waiting period. This applies if prior periods of Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) ended no more than 5 years before with the same onset date. This helps individuals requalify for benefits more quickly.
DI 23050.001 View source ›Exceptions to the Waiting Period
Certain conditions waive the typical 24-month waiting period. Specifically, beneficiaries with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are exempted from this period and may receive Medicare benefits immediately upon entitlement to SSDI benefits as authorized under Section 115 of the Medicare, Medicaid and SCHIP Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000.
DI 10110.001 View source ›Frequently asked
Do SSDI recipients have to wait 24 months for Medicare?
Yes, typically SSDI recipients wait 24 months for Medicare eligibility unless they have qualifying conditions like ALS. It is important to note that the 24-month waiting period begins five months after the onset of the disability, as there is a mandatory five-month waiting period before SSDI benefits start.
Can previous benefit periods count towards my waiting period?
Yes, months from previous periods of disability benefit entitlement might count towards the 24-month Medicare waiting period. However, it's important to note that the 24-month period for Medicare inclusion begins only after a five-month waiting period from the onset of the disability.
What about if I have ALS?
If you have ALS, the 24-month Medicare waiting period is waived, and you receive benefits upon SSDI entitlement.
Does IRMAA apply to Medicare beneficiaries who are currently receiving SSDI benefits?
Yes. Disability status does not exempt a Medicare beneficiary from IRMAA surcharges. IRMAA applies to Medicare Parts B and D regardless of age. If you are receiving Medicare benefits, you are subject to possible IRMAA surcharges.