All About Medicare Cards
What is a Medicare card used for?
Everyone that is enrolled in Medicare is issued a card as a part of the welcome packet they receive. The card is used by doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies for billing purposes.
What information is on a Medicare card?
Medicare cards have identifying information:
- Name (first name, middle initial, last name)
- Medicare number
- Plan(s) enrolled in
- When coverage began
Medicare cards no longer contain Social Security Numbers, but still should not be shared with anyone not in the medical field. This helps reduce the risk of being scammed.
Will Medicare call me and ask for my information?
Rarely. When a person contacts Medicare by phone, email, or in-person, Medicare may reach out with follow up information, but only with permission.
Medicare’s primary mode of communication is through the mail and a member’s Medicare.gov portal. Medicare will not:
- Call and ask personal information
- Ask for money
- Threaten to cancel health benefits
If someone calls claiming to be with Medicare, hang up and call (800) 633-4227 to verify if it is a valid matter.
I lost my card. How can I replace my Medicare card?
For those that have lost or damaged their card, may request a replacement either online under their Medicare.gov account or by calling (800) 633-4227. There is not a cost for replacing the card.
I just got married. How do I request a card with my new name?
New cards are not issued until after a name change is officially completed with the Social Security Administration. Once this is done, a new card may be requested by contacting Medicare at (800) 633-4227.