Written by: Vanessa Jerusalimiec (*Amsive Digital) | Reviewed by: Shelley Wyant | *MHP partners with Amsive Digital on news content
Medicare Card Replacement
Your red, white, and blue Medicare card makes it easy to access health care coverage. This card displays your name, your Medicare number, and the date your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage started. You’ll need to bring this card with you when you visit your doctor as proof that you have Medicare coverage.
But what happens if your card is lost, stolen or damaged? Here’s how you can get a Medicare card replacement.
What Should I Do If My Medicare Card is Lost, Stolen or Damaged?
Your Medicare card is one of the most important Medicare documents you have. You’ll use this card every time you access health care, and it proves that you have health care coverage. If your Original Medicare card is lost or stolen, you should request a replacement Medicare card right away. You can also replace your Medicare card if it gets damaged, or it’s too faded to read.
Requesting a New Card Over the Phone
To request a Medicare card replacement on the phone, call Social Security at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778). You can call between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also request a new Medicare card using the Social Security automated telephone service. This service is available 24 hours a day.
When you call, you’ll need:
- Your full name as it appears on your Social Security card
- Your Social Security number
- Your date of birth
Requesting a New Card Online
You can also request a new card online by visiting the Social Security website and logging in to your my Social Security account. After you log in, click on the “Replacement Documents” tab to request a Medicare card replacement.
When Will My New Card Arrive?
Your new Medicare card should arrive within 30 days of your request. The card will be sent to the address on file with Social Security, so double-check your address before submitting your request.
How to Print an Official Copy of Your Medicare Card
While you wait for your Medicare card replacement, you can use a printed copy of your Medicare card. Visit the Medicare website and log in to your Medicare account. From your account, you can view your Medicare number and print an official paper copy of your Medicare card.
How Do I Change the Address on My Medicare Card?
If you move to a new home, you'll need to change the address associated with your Medicare card. You can request a card with your new address on the phone or online. Keep using your old Medicare card until your new card arrives. When your card arrives, you should destroy your old card and start using your new card right away.
If you have another Medicare card from a Medicare Advantage plan or a Part D plan, keep this card. You’ll still need to use these cards when you access health care or fill prescriptions.
How Do I Replace a Medicare Advantage Card?
If you need to replace a lost, stolen or damaged Medicare card from your Medicare Advantage plan or your Medicare Part D plan, contact your plan provider. You can find their contact information in your plan membership documents. Let your plan provider know you need a replacement card and follow their directions to get a new card.
Keep Your Card Safe
Keep your Medicare card in a safe place and be careful when sharing your Medicare information. Only share information with trusted organizations such as your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or your health care provider.
If you think someone may have used your Medicare number or you notice suspicious activity on your account, you can report suspected fraud by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), or (TTY 1-877-486-2048).
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