Yes, it is common for ADDT programs to serve individuals under age 65 who have Medicare. Individuals with disabilities who have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 consecutive months qualify for Medicare regardless of age — this is called Medicare by Disability.

Many adults with IDD who receive SSDI (due to their disability being established before or early in adulthood) become Medicare-eligible in their 20s, 30s, or 40s. Providers should:
– Identify Medicare eligibility during the intake process by checking the client’s Medicaid/PASSE benefits and asking about SSDI status.
– Flag Medicare-eligible clients in your billing system to ensure Medicare is billed primary for applicable services.
– Be aware that some clients may have Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans rather than traditional Medicare, which routes claims differently.