How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Medicare Card (Free)
Lost your Medicare card? Replacing it is free. See the three ways to get a new card, how long it takes, how to print one online today, and what to do if your card was stolen.
If you lost your Medicare card, replacing it is free and there is no penalty. You can print an official copy online in minutes or order a new card in the mail. What you do next depends on which card you lost, the red, white, and blue Medicare card, or a private plan's card. Here is how to replace each one.
Three ways to replace your Medicare card
If you lost your red, white, and blue Original Medicare card, you have three options:
- Online (fastest). Log in to your secure account at Medicare.gov. You can see your Medicare number immediately, print an official copy of your card, or order a replacement to be mailed. If you do not have an account yet, our step-by-step guide to creating a Medicare account walks through it.
- By phone. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
- Through Social Security. Because Social Security handles Medicare enrollment, you can also request a replacement at SSA.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. This is the route to use if you get your Medicare through the Railroad Retirement Board as well.
You do not need to know your Medicare number to request a replacement. Medicare or Social Security can verify your identity with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
How long a replacement takes
A card ordered by phone or mail typically arrives in about 30 days. If you need proof of coverage before then, the online option is best: you can print an official copy the same day, and most providers accept it. You can also just give your provider your Medicare number, which is all they truly need to bill Medicare.
If your Medicare card was stolen
A lost card is usually harmless, but a stolen card can signal attempted fraud. If you believe your card or Medicare number was stolen:
- Request a replacement right away using any method above.
- Review your Medicare Summary Notices (or claims in your online account) for services or charges you do not recognize.
- Report anything suspicious to 1-800-MEDICARE. Remember, Medicare will never call, text, or email you to ask for your Medicare number or to demand payment for a card. New cards are always free.
For more on what the card is and how to protect your number, see our guide to your Medicare card.
Replacing a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan card
This is where many people call the wrong number. If you lost the card for a Medicare Advantage (Part C), Part D drug, or Medigap plan, Medicare cannot replace it, because a private insurance company issued it, not the government.
To replace a plan card, contact your plan directly. The member services number is on your plan paperwork, your insurer's website, or your Explanation of Benefits. Most insurers let you print a temporary card from their member portal while the new one is mailed.
Not sure which coverage you have? Compare Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D or read about Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans.
Do you even need the physical card?
If you have Original Medicare, carry the red, white, and blue card, providers use it to confirm your Part A and Part B coverage. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you use the plan's card for care, so a lost paper Medicare card is less urgent, though it is still worth replacing and keeping at home.
Common questions about replacing a Medicare card
How do I get a replacement Medicare card?
Log in at Medicare.gov to print or order one, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. All three are free.
How much does it cost to replace a Medicare card?
Nothing. Replacing your Medicare card is always free. Anyone charging a fee, or asking for payment to send a "new" card, is running a scam.
How long does it take to get a new Medicare card?
A mailed card takes about 30 days. If you have an online Medicare account, you can print an official copy the same day.
Can I get my Medicare card online?
Yes. With a Medicare.gov account you can view your Medicare number, print an official copy of your card, or order a replacement. See our guide to creating a Medicare account.
What if I lost my Medicare Advantage or drug plan card?
Contact your plan directly, not Medicare. The private insurer that issued the card replaces it, usually with a printable temporary card available right away in your member portal.
Do I need my physical card to see the doctor?
Not strictly. Your provider only needs your Medicare number (or plan member ID) to bill. A printed copy or the number itself works while your replacement is on the way.
Lost your card while getting set up with Medicare, or unsure which plan you are on? A licensed Medicare Advocate can help you sort it out, at no cost. Give us a call.