Medicare Card Replacement

How to get a replacement Medicare card

Replacing your red, white, and blue Medicare card is easy, and it doesn’t cost you anything. Whether your card was lost, stolen, damaged, or you need a new one for any reason, you have three simple options. You can request a replacement online, over the phone, or visit a Social Security office in person. Whichever option you choose, your new card will usually arrive within 30 days.   

When should you replace your Medicare card?

There are a few reasons you might need a new Medicare card. It could be lost, stolen, damaged, or your personal information has changed. No matter the reason, getting a new card is quick, free, and easy.

Lost or stolen card

If your Medicare card is lost or stolen, it is important to act quickly. Someone could use your card to try and steal your identity. Replacing it as soon as possible helps keep your information safe and prevents possible misuse. 

Damaged or illegible card

If your card is torn, damaged, or hard to read, you should get a new one. Health care providers need to see your Medicare number clearly. A clean, readable card makes things easier and can prevent errors that could lead to complications in the future. 

Name or information change

If you change your name, address, or other personal details, you need to update that information first with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Once it’s updated, you can request a new Medicare card with the correct information.

How to replace your Medicare card online

Replacing your card online is the fastest and easiest way. You can do it any time from a computer or smartphone and have the option to print a copy or have a new card mailed to you. You do it through either the Medicare website or the Social Security Administration website. 

Steps to replace your Medicare card online through Medicare.gov: 

1. Go MyMedicare.gov.
2. Log in to your MyMedicare.gov account. If you don’t already have an account, you will need to create one. 
3. Go to the “Get my Medicare card” section, where you can select the option to print or request a replacement Medicare card to be mailed. 
4. If you request an official copy to be sent to you by mail, submit the request and watch for updates.
5. Your new card should arrive in about 30 days.

Steps to replace your card through the Social Security Administration website:

1. Go to ssa.gov.
2. Click “Sign in” to log in to your account. If you don’t already have an account, you will need to create one. 
3. Go to the Medicare Enrollment Detail section and choose “Replace Your Medicare Card.”
4. Ensure that your mailing address is correct, select “Mail my replacement Medicare card,” and submit your request.
5. It usually takes about 30 days for the SSA to process your request and mail your replacement card.

How to replace your Medicare card by phone

If you don’t have internet access or prefer to talk to someone, you can request a replacement card by phone. This is a good option for those who want help or have questions.

Steps to replace your Medicare card by phone:

1. Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
2. You will need to provide your Medicare number, full legal name, date of birth, and your address.
3. Listen to the instructions and wait to be connected to a representative. For shorter wait times, call early in the day (between 8 and 10 a.m.) or later in the afternoon (between 4 and 7 p.m.). Expect longer wait times during the first part of the week, especially the first week of the month.
4. Your new card will be mailed in about 30 days.

How to replace your Medicare card in person

You can go to a local Social Security office if you want face-to-face help. This may be a good option if you need help updating your personal information or if you have questions. You will need to bring proof of identity such as your Social Security card or birth certificate. They may also need other documents, like a state-issued ID or driver's license or a passport. Once they have verified your identity, they will print a temporary card with your Medicare number. Your new card will be mailed to you within 7-14 business days. To find the office closest to you, visit the Social Security website. 

How to track the status of your replacement card

After you request a new card, you can track the status online. Go to Medicare.gov/NewCard and check the map for the status of card mailings in your state. If your new card hasn’t arrived after 30 days and the map shows that mailing is completed in your state, call 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) (TTY: 1-877-486-2048) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except some federal holidays).

How to replace your UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage card

If you have a UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage plan, you will need to contact UPMC directly for a member ID card. Medicare Advantage cards come from the private insurance plan, not Medicare.gov or SSA, so you cannot order a replacement UPMC for Life card from those websites. 

To request a new UPMC for Life member ID card:

• Call Member Services at 1-877-539-3080 (TTY: 711) Oct. 1 from March 31 seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. From April 1 through Sept. 30, call Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

• Log in to the UPMC Health Plan member site.
  • Under the Quick Links tab, click “Print or order an ID card.” 
  • In the Delivery Method dropdown menu, you can select from the options to email, order, or print at home.
  • If you select the option to order, scroll to the bottom of the page and check the box to verify your name and address.
  • Click “Send Card” and a copy of your card will be mailed to you.

• Log in to the UPMC Health Plan app.
  • Click “ID Card” to view your member ID card.
  • Click "Order ID Card.”
  • Verify your address and then submit by clicking “Order ID Card” at the bottom of the screen.
• Your new card should arrive in the mail within 7-10 business days.

How to keep your Medicare card and information safe

To protect your Medicare card and personal information, follow these tips:

• Don’t carry your Medicare card every day—only bring it with you to appointments or when you’re away from home.
• Keep your card in a safe, dry place at home. Even if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, keep your Original Medicare card in case you switch plans or change back to Original Medicare later.
• Only share your Medicare number or personal information to trusted providers, insurance companies, or health plans—people you trust who work with Medicare.
• Never share your Medicare number or other personal information with anyone who contacts you by phone, email, or in person unless you contacted them first and gave them permission to contact you. Medicare will never call you and ask you to give personal or private information. 
• If you think someone is using your Medicare number or someone calls and asks for your information, money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits, call Medicare right away at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) (TTY: 1-877-486-2048).
• Watch for bills or services you don’t recognize. If you suspect identity theft, go to the Federal Trade Commission website to file a report and learn what steps you can take to protect yourself. 

 

Need more help with Medicare? We’ve got you covered

Getting a new Medicare card is easy, and you have options—online, by phone, or in person. Most people receive their new card within 30 days. If you’re a UPMC for Life member, log in to the UPMC Health Plan app or member site to request a new card, or contact Member Services for help. 

Want to learn more about Medicare? See available UPMC for Life plans in your area, or to talk with a Medicare Advisor.