If you lost your Medicare card, it’s important to get a replacement as soon as possible. You’ll need your card to prove that you have Medicare coverage and to take advantage of your health insurance benefits.
What’s on the Medicare card?
Shortly after you enroll in Medicare, Social Security will send you a red, white, and blue Medicare card in the mail. Your Medicare card will show:
- Your unique Medicare number
- The date your coverage starts
- Which parts of Medicare you have (Parts A and/or B)
Your Medicare card will not show if you have Part C or D coverage through a private plan. If you sign up for one of those, that plan’s carrier will mail you a separate membership card. Be sure to carry all of your cards with you when traveling or away from home, in case you need health services.
How do I get a new Medicare card?
If you lose your Medicare card, you can ask for a new card either online or by telephone:
- Visit the Medicare Replacement Card section of Social Security’s website
- Call the Social Security hotline at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users, call 1-800-325-0778)
It takes about 30 days to receive your replacement card. The card will be mailed to the address that Social Security has on record, so be sure it is always up-to-date.
If you need proof right away that you have Medicare, you can get a paper verification letter online at mymedicare.gov (if you have an online account) or by visiting your local Social Security Office.
