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SIMPLE GUIDE

Medicare and Medicaid: which is which?

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What to do next

Check Medicare’s enrollment guidance. If costs are hard to pay, ask AHCCCS about Medicaid or help with Medicare costs.

Read Medicare’s coverage guide

Official site · new tab

Keep in mind

Having one does not automatically give you the other. Eligibility, enrollment dates, and covered costs differ.

How it works

Medicare and Medicaid are different health coverage programs, and some people can have both.

Know the difference
Medicare
Federal insurance, mainly for age 65+ and some younger people with certain disabilities or conditions.
Medicaid / AHCCCS
Health coverage for people who meet income and other rules; called AHCCCS in Arizona.
Sources and review date

Official sources reviewed: