New Medicare ID Cards - Things to Know

Your new Medicare ID card is on the way!

Medicare is mailing you a new ID card with a number that is unique to you. Social Security numbers are being removed from Medicare ID cards to prevent fraud and to keep your identity safe.

10 Things to know:

1. Your new Medicare ID card will automatically come to you. You don’t need to do anything.
2. Medicare uses the same name and address you have on file with Social Security. If you want to double check to make sure your address is up to date, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at phone number: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) or visit https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/.
3. Your Medicare coverage and benefits will stay the same.
4. Your new ID card is free – there’s no charge for it.
5. The new Medicare ID card has a new Medicare number. Medicare is removing Social Security numbers from Medicare ID cards and will replace it with a new number. Your card will have a new number that is unique to you. This change will help protect your identity.
6. Once you get your new ID card start using it right away. Destroy your old card by shredding it or cutting it up. This will help protect your identity.
7. If you’re in a Medicare-Medicaid Plan (like Buckeye Health Plan), your Medicare-Medicaid Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare – you should still keep it and use it whenever you need care. However, you also may be asked to show your new Medicare ID card, so you should carry this card too.
   
8. Mailing new ID cards will take some time. Don’t be worried if your card arrives at a different time than your friend, relative, or neighbor.
9. Keep your ID card safe. Only give your new Medicare number to doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.
10. Watch out for scams. Medicare will never ask you to give personal or private information to get your new Medicare Number and card.