Your medical cards are vital information to keep on you at all times. This works the same with your Medicare card. These have important information about your coverage and the data the healthcare providers need to get paid from your insurance company for your visit or service.
Your Medicare card
Your Medicare card will have your Medicare Beneficiary Number, name, and Part A and/or B effective dates. You’ll use it to get services from the healthcare provider and to enroll in additional coverage such as a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan.
If you’re already enrolled in Social Security benefits, you should receive your card about three months before your 65th birthday.
At age 62, your eligibility to start your Social Security benefits begins. You should speak to a representative to see how starting early can affect your income.
If you haven’t enrolled, you’ll typically receive your card two to four weeks after enrolling in Medicare. To enroll, you use the Social Security Administration’s website. You’ll need to create a My Social Security account if you don’t already have one.
Another way to get your Medicare under 65 is due to a disability. If you’re disabled, you should receive your card automatically. Your Medicare will begin on the 25th month of disability benefits.
Your Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare last three months after the month you’re first eligible.
When to use your Medicare card
Depending on how you elect to use your Medicare coverage will discern how you use your card.
If you elect to enroll in Medicare Part C, you’ll only use your card to complete the enrollment into your Medicare Advantage plan. Once your Medicare Advantage plan starts, you’ll only use your Medicare Advantage card for all your healthcare services.
If you choose to stay with Traditional Medicare or add a Medicare Supplement, you’ll need to show your card and, if applicable, your Medicare Supplement policy card to your healthcare providers for services.
You probably have a Medicare Part D plan for those on a Medicare Supplement. Your prescription drug plan will issue you a prescription drug card for your drug plan. This isn’t the same as a prescription drug discount card.
Your Medicare Advantage Medicare card
When seeing your doctor or any healthcare provider, you’d show them your Medicare Advantage plan before services are rendered.
You’ll typically pay your copay upfront before services. Since Part C plans are taking over your Medicare benefits, you’ll not need to show your card if enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
In most cases, you’ll also use the Medicare Advantage card to pick up your prescriptions at the pharmacy. The majority of Medicare Advantage plans include drug coverage.
If you need help with your plan, call the number on the back of your card for plan assistance.
Your Medicare Supplement card
Medigap plans to go hand in hand with Original Medicare. Since these are additional coverage coupled with your Medicare health insurance, you’ll want to provide it to your doctor or healthcare facility before receiving services.
There’s also a customer service number on your card if you need assistance with your supplement plan.
How do you order a new Medicare card?
Over time, you’ll inevitably need to get a replacement card; many people occasionally lose or misplace their cards.
Not to mention, the card is a paper card, which makes it susceptible to damage. To help keep it from being damaged, store it in a safe place when not in use.
Getting a replacement card can be done in a few ways. Call Medicare directly and ask them to mail you a new one.
You can log into your MyMedicare account on Medicare.gov. Once logged in, you can print a copy of your card and even request a new one be sent to you.
For a Medicare Advantage, Medicare drug plan, or Medicare Supplement card replacement, you can contact the insurance company and request a new card be sent out to you.
The contact information will be located on the back of your insurance card. If the company you enrolled in has an online portal, you can usually print a temporary card or request a new one be sent out from the portal.
FAQs
Can I print a copy of my Medicare card?
Yes! Simply log into your MyMedicare account on Medicare.gov, and you can print a copy of your card. If you don’t have an account, you can simply go to Medicare.gov and create one. You’ll need your Medicare claim number to create the account.
Does Medicare send you a card?
Yes! If you’re already enrolled in Social Security benefits, you’ll be sent a card about three months before turning 65. If you’re currently receiving benefits, you’ll get your card two to four weeks after enrolling.
When should I receive my Medicare card?
Depending on if you’re already receiving Social Security benefits or not will determine when you get your card. If you’re receiving benefits, you’ll get your card about three months before the month you turn 65. If not, once you apply for Medicare, you should expect your card in roughly two to four weeks.
Do Medicare cards expire?
No! Your card doesn’t have an expiration date. As long as you continue to pay your Part B premium, your Medicare will remain active.
What is the best way to contact Medicare?
You can call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE or request help online through your MyMedicare account.
What is the cost of a Medicare card?
There’s no cost to receive your card. In addition, there’s no charge for a replacement card.
Can I use my Medicare card for identification?
No! Your card isn’t a valid form of identification. The Medicare number is randomly generated. The old cards used your Social Security number as your MBI for most people. The new number helps to combat identity theft.
What is the Medicare card number?
Your Medicare Beneficiary Identifier is a random number that is unique to you. It’s used to tie Medicare benefits and procedures to you so Medicare can pay your healthcare providers.
How can I get a new Medicare card?
You can call Medicare directly or log in to your mymedicare.gov account to receive a new card. If you don’t have an account, go to Medicare.gov and create one. You’ll need your Medicare information and Medicare Part A effective date to create the profile.
How to get a new Medicare plan
If you need assistance getting a Medicare Supplement or maybe help choosing a plan or comparing your current rates, we can help. Our agents specialize in Medicare and can help guide you through any Medicare needs.
We can assist with getting a new card, review your plan, or if you don’t have a plan, we can help you look through the options and find the right plan for your situation and needs.
Give us a call or fill out our online request form. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Related Content
- Do you automatically get Medicare with Social Security?
- Medicare.gov: Medicare’s Official Website
- Unlocking Medicare Benefits When Turning 65
- When Is Medicare Free, and What Will I Have To Pay?
- Medicare Plans vs. Medicare Parts: What’s the Difference?
- How Medicare Coordinates Primary and Secondary Coverage
- Medicare Summary Notice: What You Need to Know
- Medicare Change of Address: How to Update It
- How to Apply for Medicare
- How to Get or Replace Your Medicare Card
