If you are age 65 or older, you are eligible for Medicare. This is a government-sponsored health insurance program that provides coverage for hospital visits, doctor appointments, and other medical expenses. In this blog post, we will discuss how to get a Medicare card and what benefits it offers. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right Medicare plan for your needs.
If you are a new Medicare beneficiary, or if your card has been lost or stolen, you will need to get a new one. This process can seem daunting, but it is quite simple. In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps involved in obtaining a new one. As well as processes to protect yourself.
Your Medicare Card
Your Medicare card shows your name, a unique number, and your hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) coverage and start dates. If you’ve lost your card, you could have trouble getting services from health care providers – and put yourself at risk of fraud. You can get a replacement Medicare card by logging in to your Social Security or Medicare account or calling for help. Make sure when enrolling in Original Medicare or requesting a new card that your address is up to date!
If you are almost 65 and are not receiving retirement benefits, you must enroll during your Enrollment Period. This runs through the 3 months before the month you turn 65. It also runs through the month you turn 65, and the 3 months after you turn 65. You can expect your card in the mail within 30 days of being approved.Read to learn more about when you can expect your card in the mail. If you have ALS or have ESRD it will be automatically mailed.
Your red, white, and blue Medicare card is proof that you are enrolled in Original Medicare. It is the most important piece of identification you own. As a beneficiary, and you will generally need your Medicare card to receive Medicare-covered services.
Avoiding Medicare Fraud
Medicare fraud happens when false claims or misrepresentations of fact result in a federal health care payment that should not have occurred. If your Medicare card is lost or stolen, someone may try to commit fraud by submitting a claim with your information to get paid for services that were never provided. The best ways to avoid fraud from a lost or stolen card are:
- Replace your card immediately.
- Keep written records of all health care services you receive.
- Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to ensure you and your Medicare health and drug plan are only being charged for actual services received.
- Report suspected fraud by contacting Medicare at (800) MEDICARE (800) 633-4227. TTY users can call (877) 486-2048.
- Understand what Medicare plan representatives can and can’t do. For instance, don’t believe anyone who calls you from Medicare or Social Security. These agencies will never initiate a call to you and will only call you if you ask them to.
- Learn more about recent Medicare scams.
- Only share your Medicare number with trusted providers.
- Contact the Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center in your state to learn more about fraud prevention and if you think someone is using your Medicare number.
Your Medicare Card and What You Need to Know
Medicare will send your card in the mail along with your Welcome packet. If you have Original Medicare, show your Medicare card to your health care providers when you receive services. If you have Medicare Advantage, use your plan’s card to get services, but keep your Medicare card in a safe place in case you go back to Original Medicare later. It’s a good idea to create personal, secure online accounts with both Social Security and Medicare. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service (CMS) manages the Medicare program, which provides health coverage. The Social Security Administration. As well as notice that they have mailed out your replacement.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Social Security delivers a broad range of services online at socialsecurity.gov and through a nationwide network of over 1,400 offices. In addition toll free numbers and a website.
Government Authority
(SSA) manages Social Security which provides financial and disability assistance. The two programs are related. Log into Social Security for a replacement Medicare card or Medicare.gov to print a new one. Medicare fraud is a real threat. Treat your Medicare number and card as you would a credit card, and only share your number with trusted providers. In addition it is good to laminate so it lasts longer.
How to Replace a Medicare Card
Online:
If you have a personal My Social Security account, you can go online to request a replacement card. You must be registered with the site and have a verified identity. The process is simple:
Log in to or create your personal My Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount/. Under the “Replacement Documents” section, select “Replace Medicare card.” Follow the instructions. You’ll get a confirmation number when you finish.
By Mail or Phone
If you don’t have a personal My Social Security account or you can’t use the online process for any reason, you can request a replacement by mail or by calling us at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778).
In-Person
You can also replace your card in person by visiting your local Social Security office. To find the location and hours, visit our Office Locator or call us at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778).
Medicare Card Replacement When Moving
If your Medicare card is lost or stolen, or if you have moved, you can read our article on how to get a new one. You will need to provide personal information such as your Social Security number. As well as your full name, phone number, and date of birth. Any Medicare card replacements will be sent to the last mailing address on file, so be sure to always keep your mailing address up to date. Replacements will be mailed to your address in about 30 days.If you need proof of Medicare coverage for an appointment. You can visit your local social security office. Then go the Doctor or fill your prescription. Going into Medicare can be an intimidating thing. Don’t worry we are here to help. Give us a call anytime so we can go through the process with you.
Using Your Medicare Card
You need to bring your Medicare card with you the first time you visit your doctor or health care provider. They will typically make a photocopy of your card for their files.
Remember these important rules for handling your Medicare card:
- Some doctors, labs, pharmacies, or other health care providers may require you to bring your Medicare card. This will be each time you receive a service. However, for safety, you may wish to leave your Medicare card at home in a safe place at other times.
- If you recently received an updated Medicare card or replacement, make sure your doctor has the updated card on file.
- Never share your Medicare card or your Medicare ID number with anyone except your doctor or health care provider or insurance agent. If you are married, your spouse should have a separate Medicare card and number. Protect it and always keep it in a safe place.
- Have your Medicare card handy whenever you call Medicare with questions.
We hope our information was helpful. Please give us a call if you have any questions.
