How to get a replacement Medicare card
You can get a replacement Medicare card through Medicare.gov, by phone, or by mail. The fastest way is online at Medicare.gov — you can request a card there in a few minutes if you have your Social Security number and date of birth. If you do not use the internet or prefer to speak with someone, you can call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and a representative will mail one to you. Both routes are free, and your new card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
You do not need to explain why you need a replacement. Medicare sends new cards automatically if you move, change your name, or if your card is damaged, lost, or stolen. You can also request one straightforward because you want a fresh copy.
Key Takeaways
- The online method at Medicare.gov is fastest and requires only your Social Security number, date of birth, and a mailing address.
- Calling 1-800-MEDICARE works if you do not have internet access or prefer phone support, and the card is mailed to you at no cost.
- Your replacement card arrives in 7 to 10 business days to the address you provide.
- You can track your card's status online after you request it, and Medicare will send you an email or text notification when it ships.
- If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact Medicare to confirm your mailing address or request a reshipment.
Requesting your card online at Medicare.gov
Go to Medicare.gov and click "Get a replacement Medicare card" in the main menu. You will be asked to sign in with your Medicare.gov account. If you do not have one, you can create it on the same page using your email address and a password.
After you sign in, enter your Social Security number and date of birth to confirm your identity. Medicare will show you the mailing address on file. Review it carefully — your new card will be sent to this address. If the address is wrong, update it before you submit your request. Once you confirm, click submit, and your request is complete. You will see a confirmation number on screen; write it down or take a screenshot.
Medicare will send you an email and a text message (if you provided a phone number) when your card ships. You can also log back into Medicare.gov anytime to check the status of your order.
Requesting your card by phone
Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). The line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time. A representative will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and the mailing address where you want your card sent.
Confirm the address aloud with the representative before they submit your request. They will give you a confirmation number; write it down. The card will be mailed to you at no cost within 7 to 10 business days.
Requesting your card by mail
You can also mail a written request to Medicare. Send a letter that includes your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and the address where you want your card mailed. Mail it to:
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Attn: National Claims History 7500 Security Boulevard Baltimore, MD 21244
This method is slower than online or phone — allow 2 to 3 weeks for processing and delivery. Use this option only if you cannot access the internet or a phone, or if you prefer a paper trail.
What to do if your card does not arrive
If your card does not arrive within 10 business days of the ship notification, or within 2 weeks if you requested it by phone or mail, contact Medicare. Call 1-800-MEDICARE and provide your confirmation number. A representative can check whether the card was delivered to the right address or resend it if needed.
If your address has changed since you requested the card, tell Medicare the new address and they can reroute it or send a new one. If the card was lost in the mail, Medicare can issue a replacement at no cost.
Using your old card while you wait
Your current Medicare card remains valid until your replacement arrives. You can continue to use it at the doctor's office, pharmacy, or hospital. When your new card arrives, destroy the old one by cutting it in half or shredding it — do not throw it away whole, as it contains your Medicare number.
If your old card was lost or stolen, tell your doctor's office and pharmacy right away so they can update their records. You can also call Medicare to report a lost or stolen card; they can flag your account and monitor for fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Medicare number before my new card arrives?
Yes. Your Medicare number is active as soon as you enroll in Medicare, regardless of whether you have received the physical card. You can give your number to your doctor or pharmacy, and they can look up your coverage. Your old card works until the new one arrives.
What if I moved and my card was sent to my old address?
Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE with your confirmation number and new address. They can update your address and either reroute the card if it is still in transit or send a new one to your current home.
Do I need to do anything when my new card arrives?
No. Your new card is ready to use when ready. Destroy your old card by cutting or shredding it. Update your doctor's office and pharmacy with your new card number if they have your old one on file, though most offices can look up your coverage by your Social Security number.
Can someone else request a replacement card for me?
No. Medicare requires the person whose name is on the card to request the replacement. If you cannot do it yourself, a caregiver or family member can help you make the phone call or navigate Medicare.gov, but you must provide your own information and consent.
Is there a cost to get a replacement card?
No. Medicare replacement cards are always free. If a website or caller claims you must pay for a replacement card, it is not from Medicare — hang up or close the page and report it.