We Discuss Different Medicare Cards, the Medicare Number, and How to Use Them.

Are you almost 65? Are you set up for Medicare?

If not, it might be time to enroll. You'll get your Medicare card once you sign up. You can then use it to access your Medicare coverage. 

Once you register with Medicare, you should receive your card in the mail within three weeks.

If you are collecting social security or

disability benefits

, your Medicare card should arrive automatically three months before your 65th birthday or after you've received disability benefits for two years.

If you haven't yet enrolled in Medicare, you can 

sign up

 during the initial enrollment period, which starts three months before your 65th birthday and extends until three months after your birthday.

You'll need to provide your Medicare card to your doctor or pharmacy to get coverage for your services.

Let's have a look at the different Medicare cards and how you will use them.

What Are the Different Medicare Cards?

You’ll get your Medicare card (red, white, and blue) when you sign up for Medicare. This is your Original Medicare card, and it represents Part A and Part B of your health insurance.

Medicare Card | Medicare.gov

‎If you’ve also enrolled in coverage for prescription drugs, you'll receive another card: your Prescription Drug card. You'll use this one at the pharmacy. 

Prescription Drug Card Example | Cigna

Medicare Supplements may cover most of your out-of-pocket expenses for doctors and hospitals on Medicare-approved services. If you've opted into this plan, you’ll need to show your Medicare Supplement card to cover your deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

Medicare Supplement Card Example | Center for Health Care Rights

‎However, if you’ve enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you won't use your original Medicare card. Instead, you will use your Medicare Advantage card.

Medicare Advantage Card Example | Cigna

Your Medicare Advantage card is a single card that you’ll use for your doctor and hospital services. It represents your Part A hospital services, Part B medical services, Part C additional coverage, and Part D prescription drugs (for plans that include prescription drug coverage).

‎

What's on My Original Medicare Card?

Your Original Medicare card has your name and your Medicare card number. Your Medicare card number is a unique identifier that gives you access to Medicare benefits.

Your card also shows whether you have Medicare Part A or both Part A and Part B, along with the date your Medicare insurance coverage begins.

What if I Lose My Card?

If you lose your card, or it gets damaged or stolen, don't worry.

You can either log in to your Medicare account and print an official copy of your card or get a replacement card.

If you want a replacement card, you can log in to your

social security account

, select the “Replacement Documents” tab, and click on the “Mail my replacement Medicare card” option. 

You can also get a replacement card by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227). Your replacement card should reach you within 30 days.

Before you request a replacement card, make sure you update your current address in your Social Security account to prevent delays.

How Do I Find My Medicare Number?

Your Medicare number is printed on your Medicare card. This is a unique number and isn’t the same as your social security number. However, it is a personally identifiable piece of information, and you should protect it with the same level of care as you do your SSN.

You can also get your Medicare card number from your

Medicare account online

. Simply log in to your Medicare account.

Your Medicare number will be helpful in case you don't have your Medicare card with you. Your doctor can use your Medicare number to check for coverage of your healthcare services.

How Do I Change the Information on My Card?

If you’ve moved to a new place or legally changed your name, you need to update this information with Medicare. 

Log in to your Social Security Account and update your information. This is especially important when you’re applying for a replacement Medicare card.

The Medicare card is your proof of identity, so keep it secure and show it to your provider whenever you wish to use its benefits.

If you still have questions, you can speak with one of our licensed agents by calling 1-888-376-2028.

We can help you

navigate the complexities of the Medicare system, help find the right plan for you, answer any questions you may have, and make sure you're getting the coverage you deserve.

We know Medicare can be complicated. Our mission is to assist folks like you get personalized Medicare coverage that works.