Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Social Security works with CMS by enrolling people in Medicare. To obtain your Medicare card when eligible, you must first have a My Social Security account. A free and secure My Social Security account provides personalized tools for everyone, whether you receive benefits or not. Create your personal My Social Security account here:
- Your card has a Medicare Number that is unique to you, instead of your Social Security Number. This helps to protect your identity.
- Your card is paper, which is easier for many providers to use and copy.
- If you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your Medicare Advantage Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare—you should keep and use it whenever you need care. And, if you have a Medicare drug plan, be sure to keep that card as well. Even if you use one of these other cards, you also may be asked to show your Medicare card, so keep it with you.
- Only give your Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.
- If you forget your card, you, your doctor, or other health care provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online.
How can I replace my Medicare card?
If you need to replace your card because it’s damaged or lost, log into (or create) your secure Medicare account to print an official copy of your Medicare card. You can also use your Medicare account to access your Medicare information anytime, add prescription drugs to help you find and compare health and drug plans in your area, and more.
If you need to replace your card because you think that someone else is using your number,
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.