The official Medicare red, white, and blue card serves as proof of your Original Medicare (Part A and B) benefits and contains your unique Medicare number. It typically arrives three months before you turn 65. If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), you must use the separate plan card for services, not the Original Medicare card. Protect your number to prevent scams.
What is the official Medicare red, white, and blue card?
The Medicare red, white, and blue card is the official federal identification card that proves you have Original Medicare coverage. This card displays your unique Medicare number and the effective date for each part of your coverage. You must present it to doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who accept Medicare so they can bill the government for your services.
When to Expect Your New Medicare Card in the Mail
If you’re automatically enrolled in Original Medicare, you’ll get your new card in the mail three months before your 65th birthday or your 25th month of receiving disability benefits. If you sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan, Medicare Prescription Drug plan, a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan—or have Medicaid—you’ll be mailed a separate membership card along with your Original Medicare card.
Will I receive the Medicare card automatically?
Whether you automatically receive your Medicare card depends on your situation. If you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits at least four months before you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B, and your card will arrive in the mail about three months before your 65th birthday. However, if you are not yet collecting these benefits, you must actively enroll with Social Security during your Initial Enrollment Period to receive your card.
How to Use Your New Medicare Card at the Doctor
Your new Medicare card is unique to you and your coverage, and you’ll want to carry it with you whenever you go to healthcare appointments. Your card shows the dates your Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B coverage begin, as well as your Medicare number, which serves as an identification number in the Medicare system. You must show your card to any provider that accepts Medicare assignment to receive services.
Which card should I use for my Medicare Advantage or Part D plan?
If you’re signed up for a Medicare Advantage plan, Part D, a Medigap plan—or have Medicaid—you will use your plan’s card instead of your Original Medicare card when you go to the doctor or hospital.
How to Protect Your Medicare Card from Scams
Your unique Medicare number must be protected like a credit card number, as it is a valuable target for identity thieves who can use it to commit medical fraud by filing false claims for services you never received. To protect yourself, only carry your physical Medicare card when you need to show it to a new provider; instead, consider keeping a copy of the number in a secure location, and never store it alongside your Social Security card. Do not share your Medicare number with anyone who calls or emails you unexpectedly.
Recognizing Common Medicare Scams
Always be aware that Medicare will not call beneficiaries to ask for their Medicare Number, personal details, or money over the phone. It’s important to be aware of common Medicare scams to protect yourself and your information.
What should I do if my Medicare card is lost or damaged?
If your Original Medicare card is lost or damaged, you should immediately request a replacement to avoid delays in accessing medical care and to protect against potential fraud. The fastest way to get your Medicare number is to log into your secure MyMedicare.gov account to print an official copy of the card right away. Alternatively, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE or contact Social Security to request a new card be mailed to you, which typically arrives within 30 days.
Need help understanding how your card relates to your Medicare plan?
At SelectQuote, we have over 40 years of experience helping people understand the ins and outs of Medicare plans. Whether you have questions about your Medicare card or want to learn more about additional or supplemental coverage, such as Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap plans, or Part D plans, a licensed insurance agent can help. And, if you’re new to Medicare, recently moved, or lost your health insurance, you may be eligible for a free, no-obligation Medicare Advantage plan review.
