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How Do I Get a Medicare Card Replacement?

Learn how to order a replacement Medicare card if your card is lost, damaged or stolen.

Christian Worstell by Christian Worstell Published Reviewed by John Krahnert

To get a Medicare card replacement if your card is lost, damaged or stolen:

  1. Online: Log in or create an account on MyMedicare.gov, then request and print an official copy of your replacement Medicare card.
  2. By phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).

    Get Your Medicare Card Replacement Online

    In addition to the two methods above, you can order a replacement Medicare card from the Social Security administration directly.

    1. Log in to your Social Security account.
    2. Click on "Replacement Documents."
    3. Select "Mail my replacement Medicare card."
    4. Ensure your address is current, then submit the application.

    Within a few days, your new plastic card will arrive in the mail, complete with your Medicare number and coverage details for both Part A and Part B.

    Order a Medicare Card Replacement by Phone

    Prefer to order your replacement card over the phone? Call the Social Security number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) at 1-877-772-5772.

    Before calling, have your SSN and other personal information ready for verification purposes.

    A representative can aid you in obtaining a fresh card, which should come within 30 days of the petition.

    Get Temporary Proof of Coverage With These Simple Steps

    Don't panic if you lose your Medicare card. You can request a letter from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) to serve as temporary proof of coverage.

    1. Contact your local Social Security office by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or find the nearest location.
    2. If you receive benefits through RRB, call them at 1-877-772-5772 for assistance.

    Your plan provider may also accept other forms of identification, like a driver's license or social security card, instead of having the physical Medicare card.

    FAQs

    Is there a new Medicare card for 2023?

    No, there is no specific new card for 2023. However, if your current card gets lost or damaged, you can request a replacement at any time.

    Are you supposed to get a new Medicare card every year?

    No, you do not need to get a new card every year. Your original card remains valid unless it is lost or damaged. If necessary, follow the appropriate steps to obtain a replacement.

    Do new Medicare cards need to be activated?

    Newly issued cards do not require activation. Once received, they are ready for use immediately. Be sure to securely destroy the old one after receiving the updated replacement card.

    Compare Medigap plans in your area.

    Or call now to speak with a licensed insurance agent:

    1-800-995-4219

    Medicare Card Replacement

    About the author

    Christian Worstell is a licensed insurance agent and a Senior Staff Writer for MedicareSupplement.com. He is passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of Medicare and understand their coverage options.

    His work has been featured in outlets such as VoxMSN, and The Washington Post, and he is a frequent contributor to health care and finance blogs.

    Christian is a graduate of Shippensburg University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He currently lives in Raleigh, NC.

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