Savvy Senior: Medicare Coverage for Non-Working Spouses

Dear Savvy Senior,

Does Medicare cover spouses who have not worked? I have worked all my life, but my spouse worked only for a few years when we first got married but then quit to take care of our children full time. Will she be eligible for Medicare?

Inquiring Husband

Dear Inquiring,

There are plenty of couples in your situation when it comes to applying for Medicare. The answer generally is yes, your spouse can qualify for Medicare on your work record. Here’s how it works.

Eligibility Rules

Medicare, the government health insurance program for older adults, covers more than 55 million Americ...