A Medicare card can be lost, stolen, or abused in health insurance scams targeting the elderly.
If anything happens to your card, here is the process for getting a replacement Medicare card.
Why is a Medicare card necessary?
Most people enroll in Medicare upon turning 65. Once enrolled, you will receive a Medicare card, which contains:
- Medicare Number
- Insured’s Name
- Part A coverage (listed as Hospital)
- Part B coverage (listed as Medical)
- Starting dates of Parts A and B coverage
If you enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, the insurer will give you separate health insurance cards.
These Medicare cards are proof of your health coverage. Therefore, it is critical to replace your Medicare cards if they are lost or damaged.
How can you get a replacement Medicare card?
Under Original Medicare, here’s how to replace a Medicare card:
- Online
Login to your Medicare account to order or print a replacement card. Or request through your Social Security (SSA) or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) account. - Phone
Here are the phone numbers to call if you have lost your Medicare card:- Medicare: 1-800-633-4227
- RRB: 1-877-772-5772
- SSA: 1-800-772-1213
- In person
If you lose your Medicare card, you can visit your local Social Security office to request a replacement card.
Typically, the replacement card will be mailed to your address in 30 days.
What if I forgot my Medicare number?
You can still get your Medicare number:
- Access your Benefit Verification Letter from your SSA online account.
- Signing into your Medicare account
How can I get a replacement Medicare card in less than 30 days?
The SSA or RRB can give a letter as temporary proof of Medicare coverage within ten days of your request. But for urgent cases, visit your local SSA or RRB office in person.
How can I get a replacement card for a Medicare Advantage plan?
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, call your insurer directly for a replacement. You can also access their online portals.
How can I get a replacement Medicare card while overseas?
If you frequently travel or live overseas and need to replace a lost Medicare card, report the loss online or call:
Medicare: 1-800-633-4227
RRB: 1-877-772-5772
SSA: 1-800-772-1213
How can I get a replacement Medicare card if I suspect fraud?
The CMS removed social security numbers from Medicare cards to reduce fraud and illegal use.
However, if you still suspect fraud, report the case to the Office of Inspector General (800-447-8477), your local Senior Medicare Patrol, or the Federal Trade Commission. You should also request a new Medicare card.
What are some tips to keep my Medicare card secure?
While you can get a replacement Medicare card relatively easily, it is still necessary to keep your Medicare card in a safe place:
- Write down your Medicare number and keep a photocopy in a safe place.
- Check your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) and Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for unauthorized services. If anything looks incorrect, call Medicare (1-800-633-4227).
- Update SSA for any changes in address and contact information.
- Destroy any old Medicare card and use your new card. Note: If you get a replacement Medicare card, you will also have a new Medicare ID number.
- Only share your Medicare information with health care providers, insurers, and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
- Avoid scams. If someone asks for Medicare information in exchange for money or threatens to cancel your health benefits, call Medicare.
Final Words
You can always request a replacement Medicare card online, by calling, or by visiting your local SSA office.
