How can I get another Medicare card if I lose the original one?
If you lose your original Medicare card, the company can provide you with several options so you can get a new one. Find out how to acquire a replacement.
Medicare federal health insurance has played a great role in public health in recent years. Retirees, young people with disabilities, and even people with a terminal illness have been able to enjoy this alternative insurance to private coverage. Losing your Medicare card can be an inconvenience as it may cause delays in getting medical care. Here’s what to do if this happens to you.
What is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare is coverage administered by the federal government. Generally, there is a charge for each service depending on the extent and cost of the service. According to the program’s official website, Medicare has three basic parts.
- Medicare Part A (hospital insurance): Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services.
- Medicare Part B (medical insurance): Covers certain doctor services, outpatient health care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
- Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs (including many recommended vaccines or injections).
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How can I get another Medicare card?
If you move to another location/state or need a new card because it has been lost, stolen, etc., Medicare has three ways to replace it. Once the procedure to get a new card is completed, the company will send the card via postal mail in approximately 30 business days. If you need proof from Medicare urgently, the program may send a letter within 10 business days for your temporary use. If you need immediate proof for a doctor’s visit or a prescription, you should visit your nearest Social Security office.
How can I get a new Medicare card online?
- Sign into your MyMedicare.gov account or create a MyMedicare account to print an official copy of your Medicare card.
- Login to your My Social Security account or create a My Social Security account to apply for a replacement card by post.
- If you worked for a railroad, submit a Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) online services application to receive a replacement card in the mail.
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How can I get a new Medicare card over the phone?
- Contact the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227, TTY: 877-486-2048).
- Contact the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 (TTY: 800-325-0778).
- If you work for a railroad, contact the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) at 877-772-5772 (TTY: 312-751-4701).
How can I get a new Medicare card in person?
- Find your local Social Security Office with the Social Security Office Locator.