Get a replacement Medicare card by calling Social Security or using your Medicare account online

You can replace your Medicare card through Social Security, either by phone or online. The fastest route is usually online through your Medicare account at Medicare.gov, which takes about 10 minutes and produces a card in 7 to 10 business days. If you do not have an online account or prefer to call, Social Security handles replacements by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. You do not need to visit an office in person.

You will need your Social Security number and proof of identity to request a replacement, whether you go online or by phone. If your card was lost or stolen, you should report it as soon as you notice it is gone — this does not prevent you from using Medicare, but it protects you if someone tries to use your number. Your current Medicare coverage does not stop while you wait for the replacement card to arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through Medicare.gov is fastest and requires only your Social Security number and a way to verify your identity.
  • Calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 takes longer but works if you cannot access the online system or prefer speaking to someone.
  • A replacement card arrives in 7 to 10 business days by mail; you do not need the physical card to use your Medicare benefits in the meantime.
  • If your card was stolen, report it to Social Security and Medicare, though this does not stop your coverage.
  • You can request a replacement as many times as needed at no cost.

Requesting a replacement card online through Medicare.gov

Go to Medicare.gov and sign in to your account. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one using your email address and Social Security number. Once you are signed in, look for the "Manage Your Health Care" section and select "Order a replacement Medicare card." The system will ask you to confirm your current address and verify your identity — this usually means answering security questions based on your credit history or receiving a one-time code by email or text.

After you verify your identity, you will see a confirmation screen showing your name, date of birth, and Medicare number. Review this information carefully, because any errors on the card will require another replacement request. Once you confirm, the card will be mailed to the address on file. If your address has changed recently, update it in your Medicare account before you request the replacement, or call Social Security to update it if you cannot do so online.

You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Keep this number in case you need to check on your order or contact Medicare later. The card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods or if mail is delayed in your area.

Calling Social Security to request a replacement card

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) during business hours, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your Social Security number ready. The representative will verify your identity by asking questions about your personal history — they may ask about previous addresses, employment, or family members. This verification usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Once verified, tell the representative you need a replacement Medicare card. They will confirm your current mailing address and ask whether you want the card sent there or to a different address. If your address has changed, update it now. The representative will give you a confirmation number and tell you when to expect the card — typically 7 to 10 business days, though this can vary.

If you have difficulty hearing or speaking, use the TTY number listed above. If English is not your primary language, ask the representative whether an interpreter is available, though wait times may be longer.

What to do if your card was lost or stolen

Report a lost or stolen Medicare card to Social Security as soon as you notice it is gone. You can do this when you call to request a replacement, or you can call separately at 1-800-772-1213. Reporting it does not stop your Medicare coverage, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your number fraudulently.

If you suspect someone has used your Medicare number, contact Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and ask to report fraud. You can also file a report with the Office of Inspector General at oig.hhs.gov. Keep a record of any fraudulent charges you discover, as this information may be needed later.

While you wait for your replacement card, you can still use Medicare. Providers can look up your coverage using your Social Security number and date of birth, or you can show them your old card even if it is damaged. You do not need the physical card in your hands to receive care.

Updating your address before requesting a replacement

If you have moved recently, update your address in your Medicare account or with Social Security before you request the replacement card. This ensures the card is mailed to the correct location. To update your address online, sign in to Medicare.gov, go to "Personal Information," and select "Edit Address." If you cannot update it online, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and a representative will do it for you.

If you request a replacement card and then move before it arrives, you can update your address with Social Security and they will forward the card to your new address. However, this can add several days to delivery time. It is better to update your address first if you know you are moving.

Damaged or unreadable cards

If your card is damaged but still readable, you can continue using it until a replacement arrives. However, if the card is so worn or damaged that providers cannot read your Medicare number or name, request a replacement using the same methods described above — online through Medicare.gov or by calling Social Security.

You do not need to send in the old damaged card. straightforward request a new one and discard the old card once the replacement arrives. If the old card contains information you want to keep (such as your group number for a Medicare Advantage plan), write down that information before you throw it away.

Tracking your replacement card

If you requested your card online, you can check the status by signing back into Medicare.gov and looking at your order history. The system will show whether the card has been mailed and an estimated delivery date. If you called Social Security, use the confirmation number they gave you to check the status — call 1-800-772-1213 and provide this number to a representative.

If more than two weeks have passed and you have not received your card, contact Social Security or Medicare to investigate. It is possible the card was lost in the mail, or there may be an error with your address. A representative can reissue the card or update your mailing information if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my Medicare card to see a doctor while waiting for the replacement?

No. Your Medicare coverage is active whether or not you have the physical card. Providers can look up your coverage using your Social Security number and date of birth. You can also show them your old card if it is still readable, even if it is damaged or expired.

How much does a replacement card cost?

Replacement cards are free. Social Security and Medicare do not charge for lost, damaged, or duplicate cards, no matter how many times you request one.

Can I get a replacement card mailed to an address other than the one on file?

Yes. When you request the replacement online or by phone, you can specify a different mailing address. This is useful if you are traveling or temporarily staying somewhere other than your home address. Make sure you provide a complete, correct address so the card reaches you.

What if I have a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan — do I need a new card for that too?

No. Your Medicare card is separate from your plan card. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan or prescription drug coverage, your plan will send you a separate card for that coverage. Replacing your Medicare card does not affect your plan cards.

Can someone else request a replacement card on my behalf?

If you are unable to make the call or access the online system yourself, a family member or caregiver can call Social Security on your behalf. They will need your Social Security number and date of birth, and Social Security may ask to speak with you directly to verify your identity. If you have a power of attorney, bring that document if you visit a Social Security office in person.