Can I get Medicare if I have VA benefits?

You can absolutely have both Medicare and Medicaid. When someone qualifies for both programs, they're referred to as dually eligible, or sometimes just a dual eligible beneficiary. It's more common than many people realize. Medicare is federal health insurance based primarily on age or disability. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program based on income and financial need. They serve different purposes and can work together. In most cases, Medicare pays first for covered services, and Medicaid may help cover costs that Medicare doesn't, such as premiums, deductibles, copays, or services Medicare doesn't include, like some long-term care. The exact benefits depend on which Medicaid program you qualify for and the state you live in. If you're on both programs, you may also qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, which is a specific type of Medicaid benefit that helps pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes other cost-sharing. For people with limited income, this can make a significant difference in monthly expenses. If you're already on Medicaid and turning 65, it's important to still enroll in Medicare when you're first eligible. Medicaid alone generally won't cover everything Medicare does, and delaying Medicare enrollment can create complications and potential penalties. A local benefits counselor can help you understand exactly how your state's Medicaid program interacts with Medicare.