How to Request a Replacement Medicare Card
You can request a replacement Medicare card online, by phone, or by mail. The fastest way is through your Medicare account at Medicare.gov. You will need to sign in with your username and password, or create an account if you do not have one yet. Once logged in, go to "Manage Your Health Care" and select "Order a replacement card." You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and speak to a representative who will mail a new card to you.
If you prefer to request by mail, fill out Form CMS-11081 and send it to the address listed on the form. You can read this form from Medicare.gov or ask for it by phone. Mail requests take longer than online or phone requests, usually three to four weeks.
You do not need to provide a reason for ordering a replacement. Medicare will send your new card to the mailing address on file. If your address has changed, update it before you order the card, or call Medicare to update it during your request.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through Medicare.gov is the fastest way to order a replacement card and takes about 7 to 10 business days.
- You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE to request a replacement card by phone, and a representative will mail one to you.
- Make sure your mailing address is current before you order, or update it when you call.
- Your new card will have the same Medicare number as your old one, so your coverage does not change.
- If your card was stolen, you can report it to Medicare when you request the replacement.
What Information You Will Need
To order online or by phone, have your Social Security number ready. You will also need to verify your identity, which Medicare does by asking questions about your personal history — such as your date of birth, previous addresses, or loan information. This takes a few minutes and happens right away.
If you are ordering by mail using Form CMS-11081, you will need to sign the form and include a copy of your identity document. Acceptable documents include a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Mail the form and a copy of your ID to the address shown on the form.
How Long a New Card Takes to Arrive
Online requests usually arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Phone requests take about the same time. Mail requests take longer — typically three to four weeks — because Medicare has to receive your form, process it, and then mail the card to you.
Your Medicare coverage does not stop while you wait for your new card. You can still see your doctors and use your benefits. If you need proof of coverage before your card arrives, you can print a temporary proof of coverage from your Medicare account online, or call 1-800-MEDICARE and ask them to mail you one.
What to Do If Your Card Was Stolen
If someone stole your Medicare card, tell Medicare when you request the replacement. You can mention this when you call 1-800-MEDICARE or note it in the comments section when you order online. Medicare will flag your old number in case someone tries to use it fraudulently.
Watch your Medicare statements and explanation of benefits (EOB) for charges you did not authorize. If you see suspicious activity, call 1-800-MEDICARE right away. You can also report Medicare fraud to the Office of Inspector General at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) or online at oig.hhs.gov.
Updating Your Address or Other Information
If your mailing address has changed, update it before you order your replacement card. You can change your address online through your Medicare account, by calling 1-800-MEDICARE, or by visiting your local Social Security office. When you update your address, Medicare will use the new one for your replacement card.
If you need to change other information — such as your name, date of birth, or phone number — you will need to contact Social Security directly, not Medicare. You can visit your local Social Security office, call 1-800-772-1213, or go to ssa.gov. Social Security handles changes to your personal information, and Medicare will receive the update automatically.
If You Have Medicare Advantage or a Medigap Plan
If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medigap supplemental plan, you may have a separate card from your insurance company in addition to your Medicare card. When you order a replacement Medicare card, your plan card is not affected. Your plan card will continue to work as it does now.
If your plan card is also lost or damaged, contact your insurance company directly. They will send you a replacement plan card. You will need both your Medicare card and your plan card when you see a doctor or fill a prescription, so order replacements for both if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement card the same day?
No. The fastest method is ordering online through Medicare.gov, which takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need proof of coverage before your card arrives, you can print a temporary proof of coverage from your Medicare account or call 1-800-MEDICARE and ask them to mail you one.
Will my Medicare number change on the new card?
No. Your new card will have the same Medicare number as your old one. Your coverage and benefits do not change. The only difference is the physical card itself.
What if I never received my replacement card?
If more than two weeks have passed since you ordered online or by phone, or more than four weeks since you mailed Form CMS-11081, call 1-800-MEDICARE. They can check the status of your order and resend the card if needed. Have your Social Security number ready when you call.
Do I have to pay for a replacement card?
No. Medicare does not charge you for a replacement card. If someone asks you to pay for a replacement Medicare card, it is a scam. Hang up and report it to 1-800-MEDICARE.
Can someone else order a replacement card for me?
You can authorize someone to order a replacement on your behalf, but Medicare will still mail the card to your address on file. If you want the card mailed to a different address, you will need to update your address first or call 1-800-MEDICARE to explain the situation.