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How To Replace Lost Medicare Card

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How Do Medicare Number Or Card Scams Work

How to Get a Replacement Medicare Card

The scammers may try to convince you that you need to pay a fee to have your card fixed or activated.

A scammer could call you and claim youre eligible for a refund for a service or treatment that was covered. They would then ask for your personal information such as your Medicare number or SSN. They could also ask for a credit card number or bank information to process your refund. Do NOT provide any of that information!

Another scam is an offer of free medical supplies. A scammer may contact you and claim that you can receive a free checkup, free services, treatments, or equipment. They will ask for your Medicare number or SSN. They may claim that they need that information to verify your identity.

Ultimately the scammers goal is to get your Medicare number, SSN, bank information, or credit card number. Do not provide those details to ANYONE who randomly contacts you over the phone. Once the scammers have your personal information they may use it to commit identity theft, fraud, or to steal money.

Getting And Replacing Your Medicare Card

Need a Medicare card? Heres how to get one whether youre new to Medicare or need a replacement.

Contributing expert: Leron Moore, Medicare consultant

  • VI.
What you should know
1.When you apply for Medicare, upon approval, you will receive a red, white, and blue Medicare membership card. 2. Your Medicare card wont have your Social Security number on it. There will be a unique identification number thats generated and listed on your card.
3. Your Medicare card is in paper form. It isnt advised that you laminate your card. It isnt illegal however, there are security features built-in that may be compromised if the card is laminated.

Printing Out A Replacement Card

If your card has been lost or damaged, you can print out a copy via your MyMedicare.gov account. This will allow you to print an official copy of your Medicare card that you can carry with you and use when you go to the doctor.

Although this isnt technically a Medicare card, the information will be the same as what is found on your card. This means that anywhere that you can use your real Medicare card, you can also use this printed out version.

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What Is My Medicare Number

Your Medicare number is a unique-to-you number. It is not the same as your Social Security number. You can find your Medicare number on your Medicare card just below your name. You can also find your card number by logging into your MyMedicare.gov account. Remember: protect your Medicare number. Only give it to your health care professionals. Beware of giving out your number over the phone or to someone you dont know.

You Can Do A Lot With Your My Medicare Account Including Printing And/or Ordering A New Medicare Card

How To Get A Replacement Medicare Card?

Yes, you can. Your Medicare health insurance card is the way that you access your Medicare benefits, so understanding how this card functions is important to make sure that your coverage is always simple to receive. Well go through how to print your card online, as well as several other issues related to your Medicare card, so you can be prepared no matter what situation you find yourself in.

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What Information Does My Medicare Card Hold

Your Medicare card will hold information that doctors offices, hospitals, and clinics can use to identify you and collect payment for your treatment.

Your Medicare card has a number that is unique to you. It is not the same as your Social Security number.

Your Medicare card also shows if you have Medicare Part A coverage which is listed as Hospital. It also displays if you have Medicare Part B coverage which is displayed as Medical on your card. The card will show the date your coverage begins as well.

You would have received your Medicare card when you were approved for coverage and sent a Medicare Welcome Packet. You can also get a printed version of your card by logging into your Medicare account and printing a copy of your card.

How To Protect Your Medicare Card

Medicare cards are made from paper, so they are likely to wear out from use over time. It is up to you to protect your card to keep it in good condition. You also need to safeguard your card to prevent identity theft of your Medicare information.

Some people consider laminating their card to protect it from wear and tear. The Social Security Administration does not recommend doing that, however, because laminating the card may interfere with its security features. Instead, use a clear plastic cardholder or sleeve to protect it from damage and keep it visible for your providers.

The Social Security Administration also suggests you consider photocopying your card. Keep the copy in a safe location, such as a lockbox or safe deposit box with other important documents.

You should also keep important numbers, including the Medicare phone number and the contact details for Medicare Advantage or Medigap providers, handy and in a safe place.

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Replace Lost Medicare Card

If you need to replace a lost Medicare card, youre in luck. Social Securitys convenient online site allows beneficiaries whove damaged or lost a red, white, and blue Medicare card to replace it.Medicare provides medical and prescription medicines coverage to people 65 years of age or older, disabled people, and individuals suffering from end-stage renal disease . Medicares three parts Part A Part B , and Part D help Americans to stretch their medical dollars.

Lost Or Stolen: How To Get A Replacement Medicare Card

How to Get a Replacement Medicare Card Online

Your Medicare card is your proof that you hold Medicare health insurance. This card shows whether you have hospital insurance , Hospital , Physicians and DME. It also shows when your coverage started. In many cases, youll need to present your Medicare Card when you receive health services like seeing a doctor, getting an x-ray, or filling a prescription for medication. But what should you do you if your card is lost or stolen? The following steps will help you replace a lost Medicare card.

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How Do I Get A New Medicare Card Online

To request a new Medicare card online, go to the Social Security website at www.ssa.gov. You must have an account to ask for a new card, so if you dont already have one, youll need to sign up. You dont need to receive Social Security benefits in order to make an account, and registering is simple.

Follow these steps tocomplete your request online:

  • Sign in

How To Protect Personal Medicare Information

Your Medicare beneficiary identifier number is private and personal. It is critical that you take the necessary steps to prevent identity theft and insurance fraud. For example:

  • Never share your Medicare beneficiary identifier number with anyone except your healthcare providers.
  • Never provide personal Medicare information to a person who emails or calls and asks for that information.
  • Never let another person borrow your card to pay for services on your behalf.
  • Check your Medicare Summary Notice to make sure that it is accurate. If you notice healthcare services that you did not receive, first call your healthcare provider to ask if there has been a billing error.
  • If you are concerned about possible Medicare identity theft or fraudulent activity, you should contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE . TTY users call 1-877-486-2048.

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Replacing Your Medicare Card Through The Ssa

If you first applied for Medicare through the Social Security Administration, thats who can replace your Medicare card.

The quickest way to replace your card is through the SSA website. Again, youll need to log in or create an account, but you dont need your Medicare number to do sojust your Social Security number, date of birth, and name as it appears on your Social Security card.

Alternatively, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 , between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m, Monday through Friday. Or you can visit your nearest SSA office.

Ordering Your Replacement Medicare Card Online

Replacement Medicare Card Online / How to Replace a Lost ...

Making a request for a new card online is the easiest way for most people to get a new Medicare card. The process is simple and the website is secure. Visit the Social Security Administrations Replace a Medicare Card page and fill out the online application for a replacement card.

To order a replacement Medicare card, youll need to provide exact information about your last payment or benefit, your Social Security number and your name as it appears on your Social Security card, your date of birth, and your telephone number. You may also need to provide further information for identification purposes.

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Get Help Replacing A Lost Stolen Or Damaged Medicare Card

  • If your Medicare card has been lost, stolen or damaged, follow these instructions to replace your Medicare card. You can also use our helpful links to log in to your MyMedicare.gov or Social Security account.

Your Medicare card is a valuable item, as it helps you use your Original Medicare health insurance benefits when receiving health care. Your Medicare card also contains important private information such as your Medicare number that could be used for fraudulent purposes if it winds up in the wrong hands.

Beneficiaries should take extra care to keep their Medicare card in a safe place at all times. Accidents happen, though. If your Medicare card is lost, stolen or damaged, here are some recommended steps you can follow to get a replacement card.

Medicare Online Account Help

Instructions on how you can get a replacement or extra Medicare card.

You can get a replacement Medicare card for any of these reasons, if the card is:

  • lost or damaged
  • stolen
  • expired.

You can get a copy of your card if there are multiple people on it and you need an extra one.

The screenshots in this guide are from a computer. The screen layout will look different if youre using a mobile device.

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How Do I Get My Card In The First Place

If you automatically enroll in Medicare, you will get your Medicare card in the mail three months before your 65th birthday. If you receive disability benefits, the card will come on the 25th month after you started receiving your benefits. You need your Medicare card to receive Medicare coverage.

Your Medicare card contains all of the information that you need to receive coverage when you visit your health care provider. It functions as an ID card, as well as an explanation of what coverage you have. The terms used on the card are hospital for Medicare Part A and medical for Medicare Part B. These two parts together are referred to as Original Medicare.

If you have other forms of Medicare health insurance, like Part D prescription drug plan, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Medicare Supplement Plan, this coverage wont be represented on your card. You will likely receive a separate card from the private insurance companies that you will use for this coverage.

All of the basic information about your Medicare card is available online at medicare.gov.

How To Get Or Replace Your Medicare Card

Medicare Card Replacement Guide if Card is Lost, Stolen or Damaged

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When you need to get a Medicare card or replace one, you can easily request it online or by phone. Whether youre enrolling in Medicare for the first time or replacing a lost, stolen or damaged card, obtaining the traditional red, white and blue Medicare card shouldnt be an obstacle to receiving and paying for health care.

The card includes your name and Medicare number, and if youre an Original Medicare beneficiary, it will show if you have Part A , Part B or both. Youll use this card to get your Medicare-covered services. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan, youll get a card from the provider when you enroll.

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Medicare Advantage Enrollees Get A Separate Card

If you have Medicare Advantage, youll need your plans card to receive services. That card will be mailed to you automatically soon after you enroll. If you need to replace it, call your plan provider. Likewise, if you need a card for your prescription drug plan , contact your provider.

In any case, always keep your Medicare card and Medicare number in a safe place. Medicare fraud is a big problem, and it will be a hassle if your card or number is stolen. If you believe that someone is using your Medicare number, call 633-4227 to report it.

About the author:John Rossheim is an editor and writer specializing in health care and workforce trends. His work has appeared in The Washington Post and on MSN, Monster and dozens of other websites.Read more

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How To Replace Your Lost Medicare Card

Oh No, youve looked in your wallet and much to your dismay youve lost Medicare card. Your Medicare card is proof of your Medicare coverage. You might need it to get services at a doctors office or hospital. Depending on how you receive your Medicare benefits will determine who you need to contact to get a replacement card. You will either be contacting the Social Security Administration or the Railroad Retirement Board .

Not to fret though, it is fairly easy to get a replacement Medicare card. Depending on how fast you need your replacement card, will determine which of the several options available is best.

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Make An Online Request

Many states also make it possible to order a replacement card online. Go to the Medicaid page of your states health and human services website. If you dont immediately see this section, try typing in Medicaid replacement card in the search box and click search. The first or second link in the search results likely will be the page youre looking for. Next, fill in the information required. For example, on New York Citys website, you select the reason youre requesting a replacement card from the drop-down menu labeled Details. Your choices include lost, stolen and damaged. Next, you enter your Social Security number. If you dont know it, click I dont know it icon and move to the next section. If the card is for your unborn child, click Request is for an unborn child icon. Next, click the right arrow key at the bottom of the page to to submit your request. Although formats can differ between websites, the information requested by each is similar.

What Insurance Companies Say To Do

How to Replace a Lost Medicare Card

Most insurance companies advise contacting them or visiting their online portal if you lose your Medicare card. Some ways you can obtain the information include:

  • bringing your enrollment confirmation from your Medicare Advantage plan to the pharmacy, being sure it includes your plans name, enrollment confirmation number, and a phone number on how to contact the plan
  • keeping a scanned copy of the front and back of your card in a safe place so you can access your policy number and key phone numbers to call

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If You Qualify Under A Non

  • If you are a U.S. citizen and provide a valid Social Security Number , a match with the Social Security Administration will verify your SSN, date of birth and U.S. citizenship. If SSA verifies this information, no further proof is needed. The SSA match cannot verify birth information for a naturalized citizen. You will need to submit proof of naturalization or a U.S. passport.
  • Proof of citizenship or immigration status*
  • Proof of age , like a birth certificate
  • Four weeks of recent paycheck stubs
  • Proof of your income from sources like Social Security, Veteran´s Benefits , retirement benefits, Unemployment Insurance Benefits , Child Support payments
  • If you are age 65 or older, or certified blind or disabled, and applying for nursing home care waivered services, or other community based long term care services, you need to provide information on bank accounts, insurance policies and other resources
  • Proof of where you live, such as a rent receipt, landlord statement, mortgage statement, or envelope from mail you received recently
  • Insurance benefit card or the policy
  • Medicare Benefit Card **

Proof of Medicare application can be:

  • Your award or denial letter from the Social Security Administration, OR
  • Your on-line confirmation letter stating that you have applied for Medicare with the Social Security Administration.

Apply Now:

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Store Your Replacement Card In A Safe Place

Your Medicare card and other health insurance cards are very important to your continuing health care needs. When you receive your replacement Medicare card, keep it in a safe location at home. Do not carry your card when you are not using it for medical appointments or filling prescriptions. Make a photocopy of your card and other insurance and identification cards. Keep your medicare number handy as well.

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