What are the eligibility requirements for Medicare?

The correct eligibility requirement for Medicare is that individuals must be aged 65 or older, or under 65 and receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months. This provision ensures that Medicare is accessible to a specific demographic that typically has higher health care needs, including older adults and those who are disabled.

For those who are 65 years of age or older, eligibility is straightforward, as this is the age at which Medicare coverage begins for the general population. Additionally, the provision for individuals under 65 who have been on SSDI for at least 24 months recognizes that these individuals may require more substantial health care resources due to their disabilities, thus allowing them access to Medicare benefits.

The other options do not meet the criteria for Medicare eligibility. The requirement for age does not apply to individuals aged 18 or older unless they are disabled and receiving SSDI. Citizenship is not a strict requirement because lawful residents who meet certain conditions can also qualify for Medicare. Lastly, while income level can affect the costs associated with Medicare, it is not a direct eligibility criterion for enrollment in the program. Therefore, the focus is primarily on age and disability status as key eligibility factors for Medicare.