Medicare Card Replacement | How to Get a New Medicare Card

The importance of protecting your Medicare card

If you are a Medicare recipient, then you probably already know how important it is to keep your Medicare insurance plan information, and yourself, safe and secure. 

When you enroll in a Medicare plan, you will receive a special number that is entirely unique to you and your plan. Though it is not the same thing, a Medicare number is much like a social security number in that this number is used to identify you and help protect you from fraud.

In today’s day and age though, keeping track of all your account numbers, passwords, and other important information can be quite a challenge. That’s why you will also receive a Medicare card when you enroll in a Medicare plan. 

This card lists several pieces of vital and sensitive information, including your name, the parts of Medicare you are enrolled in, your coverage start date, and of course, your Medicare number. For this reason, you should always make sure your card is stored in a safe and secure location.

What to do if you lose your Medicare card

If you happen to lose your Medicare card or require a Medicare card replacement for any reason, there are steps you can take to not only keep your identity safe, but also receive a new Medicare card that you can use for future reference. Let’s take a look at what you should do about getting a new Medicare card in a variety of situations:

How do I replace a lost Medicare card?

If you simply misplaced or cannot find your Medicare card, you can log into (or create) an online Medicare account, from which you can print an official copy of your Medicare card. If you’d prefer, you can also contact Medicare directly by phone at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to order a replacement Medicare card.

In addition, you can also log into or create your online my Social Security account (even if you do not yet receive Social Security benefits). Once you are logged in, select the “Replacement Documents” tab and then select “Mail my replacement Medicare card.” From there, you should receive your new Medicare card by mail in about 30 days. You can also contact your local Social Security office for more assistance.

How do I replace a stolen Medicare card?

If you suspect that your Medicare card or your personal information has been stolen by someone who intends to commit fraud, or if you gave your information to someone you now feel like you shouldn’t have, you can contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to report the issue or contact the Federal Trade Commission. After you report your card as stolen, you can follow the same steps listed above in order to get a Medicare card replacement.

What if my name has changed?

If your name has changed and the name listed on your Medicare card is no longer accurate, you can contact Social Security and get additional details on what you should do if you have legally changed your name. Your Medicare card utilizes the same information that is on file with Social Security, so if you require a Medicare card replacement due to a recent name change, you should  contact Social Security first.

How do I keep my Medicare card safe?

The most important thing you can do to ensure your Medicare information and your identity is safe is to guard both your card and your Medicare number as if it were a credit card. That means you should not give your Medicare number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

Follow these great tips to help keep yourself safe from Medicare fraud:

• Keep your Medicare number to yourself. If you get a call from someone who is promising you things if you give them your Medicare number, DO NOT fall for it. This is a well-known Medicare scam.
• Refuse any offer of money, gifts, or free medical care in exchange for your Medicare number. It is a common ploy of identity thieves to promise you free things in exchange for your personal information.
• Make use of a calendar and other devices to keep track of all your doctor’s appointments and medical tests. When you check your Medicare statements, you can cross-reference these dates for accuracy. If things aren’t adding up, or if you notice services or items that do not look correct, call your provider to confirm the charges

If you suspect that you may be a victim of fraud, don’t hesitate to report it as soon as possible. Medicare fraud is illegal and the government takes this crime very seriously. To learn more about how to protect yourself from healthcare fraud, visit Medicare.gov/fraud today.