Medicare is a federally mandated insurance program that provides basic protection against the cost of inpatient hospitalization. All employees hired April 1, 1986, or later must pay Medicare tax in the amount of 1.45% of gross earnings.

Payment of this tax qualifies you and your family for the hospital portion of Medicare, free of charge, when

1. You meet the appropriate age, which is generally 65, and
2. You have paid in a minimum of 40 quarters.

Medicare Resources and Informational Brochures

• Medicare General Information 
• Medicare Factors to Consider
• Medicare Questions & Answers
• Medicare Publication
• www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10043.html
• Understanding Medicare Benefits
• www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10024.html
• How You Earn Medicare Credits
• www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10072.html

For additional information visit the  Social Security Web site at www.socialsecurity.gov or call the Social Security office at 1-800-772-1213.