After enrolling in Medicare, you will receive your Medicare identification card so that you can use it to receive healthcare coverage at a variety of different facilities across the United States. Applying for Medicare Since Medicare is a government-run entity, applications for insurance coverage are handled by the Social Security Administration.
What do you need to know about your Medicare card?
Your Medicare card is proof that you have Medicare health insurance. Be sure to keep it in a safe place when you’re not using it. Your card lets healthcare providers know whether you have Medicare Part A (“HOSPITAL”) or Part B (“MEDICAL”) or both, and the starting date of your coverage.
Do I need to protect my Medicare card?
Just as you would protect a credit card or your Social Security card, you should guard your Medicare card in the same fashion, as it contains sensitive information. In the wrong hands, such information as your name, signature and Social Security number could be copied or stolen.
What should I do with my Medicare card when I call?
Always have your card handy when you call Medicare with questions. You should take your Medicare card with you when you receive any health care services or supplies. Even if you haven’t reached your deductible, your doctor will need your card information to submit a claim.
What is the original purpose of Medicare?
Original Medicare was created as a health insurance program designed to ensure quality healthcare and prescription drug coverage for qualified recipients of the United States. Who can apply for a Medicare card?
Does everyone get a Medicare card?
Everyone who enrolls in Medicare receives a red, white, and blue Medicare card. This card lists your name and the dates that your Original Medicare hospital insurance (Part A) and medical insurance (Part B) began.
Does everyone need Medicare?
Strictly speaking, Medicare is not mandatory. But very few people will have no Medicare coverage at all – ever. You may have good reasons to want to delay signing up, though.
Why do people apply for Medicare?
The Parts of Medicare Medicare Part B (medical insurance) helps pay for services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment, and some preventive services.
Do you automatically get a Medicare card when you turn 65?
You should receive your Medicare card in the mail three months before your 65th birthday. If you are NOT receiving benefits from Social Security or the RRB at least four months before you turn 65, you will need to sign up with Social Security to get Parts A and B.
What if you don't want Medicare?
While you can decline Medicare altogether, Part A at the very least is premium-free for most people, and won't cost you anything if you elect not to use it. Declining your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits completely is possible, but you are required to withdraw from all of your monthly benefits to do so.
Who needs Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for: People who are 65 or older. Certain younger people with disabilities. People with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD)
Do I have to pay for Medicare?
Most people don't have to pay a monthly premium for their Medicare Part A coverage. If you've worked for a total of 40 quarters or more during your lifetime, you've already paid for your Medicare Part A coverage through those income taxes.
When should you apply for Medicare?
Generally, we advise people to file for Medicare benefits 3 months before age 65. Remember, Medicare benefits can begin no earlier than age 65.
Can I get Medicare if I never worked?
You can still get Medicare if you never worked, but it will likely be more expensive. Unless you worked and paid Medicare taxes for 10 years — also measured as 40 quarters — you will have to pay a monthly premium for Part A. This may differ depending on your spouse or if you spent some time in the workforce.
Do they automatically send you a Medicare card?
You should automatically receive your Medicare card three months before your 65th birthday. You will automatically be enrolled in Medicare after 24 months and should receive your Medicare card in the 25th month.
Will Medicare automatically send me a Medicare card?
Once you're signed up for Medicare, we'll mail you your Medicare card in your welcome packet. You can also log into (or create) your secure Medicare account to print your official Medicare card. I didn't get my Medicare card in the mail. View the Medicare card if you get benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board.
What are the benefits of turning 65?
Here's how getting older can save you money:Senior discounts.Travel deals.Tax deductions for seniors.Bigger retirement account limits.No more early withdrawal penalty.Social Security payments.Affordable health insurance.Senior services.More items...
What You Need to Know About The New Medicare Cards
On May 30, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released information on the new Medicare cards that would be sent out beginning nex...
Who Can Apply For A Medicare Card?
To qualify for any type of federal Medicare coverage plan, you must be a United States citizen or legal United States resident of five years or mor...
Steps to Apply For A Medicare Card
Step 1. Begin by going to the Social Security website and apply online by clicking on “Medicare,” located at the top of the page headings (topics t...
How Do I Replace My Medicare Card?
Before applying for a replacement card for a lost or stolen Medicare card, be certain to have your personal information ready. This includes your n...
What Your Medicare Card Should contain
When you receive your Medicare card, there a few things you should do right away. The first of which is to review the information on the card for i...
What Your Medicare Card Looks Like
Once you have been deemed qualified to receive Medicare benefits, you will be issued a red, white and blue (paper) card, identifying you as a Medic...
What The Letters on The Medicare Card Signify
The letter A follows the Medicare claim number, which is also your Social Security number. This signifies that you have worked and made payments in...
Information Regarding Medicare Cards For A Disabled Person Or Spouse
If you are a disabled person, the letters HA will appear after your Social Security number. If you are married to a disabled person, you are entitl...
Government Employees and Medicare
A government employee who is not receiving Social Security and who qualifies to receive Medicare will have the letters TA after their Social Securi...
Spousal Beneficiaries and Medicare
If you have never worked, you will still qualify for Medicare, provided that your spouse has met the requirements to receive Medicare benefits. In...
What is included in my Medicare card?
Besides your full name, your Medicare card includes your Medicare number as well as important information about the health insurance coverage to which you are entitled. This includes: 2. Medicare number —This is one of the most important pieces of information on your Medicare card. It’s what the billing department will use when it submits ...
What is a red white and blue Medicare card?
It acts as proof that you have Medicare health insurance, and it provides the starting date (s) of your coverage.
How long does it take to get a replacement Medicare card?
According to the Health and Human Services Department, it can take about 30 days for your replacement card to arrive in the mail.
What happens if you lose your Medicare number?
If it is lost or stolen and gets into the wrong hands, you could be the victim of identity theft. Your personal information could be used fraudulently to obtain medical care or submit billing to Medicare in your name. Today, your Medicare number is no longer your SSN.
What is Part A in Medicare?
Part A —If you have Part A, labeled HOSPITAL, you are entitled to care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility, hospice care and home healthcare. The date your coverage begins is also included. 4. Part B —If you have Part B, labeled MEDICAL, you are entitled to medical care and preventive services.
Where to keep a medical card if you don't want to go to the doctor?
If you don’t want to carry the card with you when you’re not going to the doctor, you should keep it in a safe place at home, such as a locked desk drawer or a fireproof safe. Be sure to put it back in the same place every time once you’re done using it.
Do you need a separate ID card for Medicare?
If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) Plan, you will receive a separate ID card. If your plan covers prescription drugs, your MA card will include that information too. You should use your MA card as your primary Medicare card, but you should still keep your Medicare card in a safe place.
What is the Medicare card?
Everyone who enrolls in Medicare receives a red, white, and blue Medicare card. This card lists your name and the dates that your Original Medicare hospital insurance ( Part A) and medical insurance ( Part B) began. It will also show your Medicare number, which serves as an identification number in the Medicare system.
When will Medicare cards be available for 2020?
Note: Medicare has finished mailing new Medicare cards to all beneficiaries. You can still use your old card to get your care covered until January 1, 2020. However, if you have not received your new card, you should call 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227) and speak to a representative.
Do you have to use a blue card to go to the doctor?
If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO, PPO, or PFFS), you will not use the red, white, and blue card when you go to the doctor or hospital.
Do you have to show your Medicare card to your doctor?
If you have a supplemental insurance plan, like a Medigap, retiree, or union plan, make sure to show that plan’s card to your doctor or hospital, too, so that they can bill the plan for your out-of-pocket costs . Note: Medicare has finished mailing new Medicare cards to all beneficiaries.
How to apply for Medicare card?
Step 1. Begin by going to the Social Security website and apply online by clicking on “Medicare,” located at the top of the page headings (topics to choose from). A new page will appear, and you will then click the “Apply for Medicare Benefits” link. Step 2.
When will Medicare cards be released?
The New Cards. According to the CMS, the government plans to begin mailing new cards to Medicare recipients in April 2018. All beneficiaries should receive the updated cards by April 2019. The 12-month period will also allow healthcare providers to prepare for the switch and make any necessary changes to their systems.
How does Medicare fraud work?
Medicare is issuing new cards to cut down on fraud, but scammers continually devise new tactics to wreak havoc on the lives of the elderly. As a beneficiary, you might be contacted by people over the phone or over the internet posing as government agencies requiring personal information. Some of the more common tactics used include: 1 Requesting that cardholders confirm or verify their Medicare or social security information. Criminals often pretend an error was made. They insist they need the personal information to make the correction and to issue a new card; 2 Convincing Medicare beneficiaries that there is a fee for obtaining a new card and their personal information is required; and 3 Threatening cardholders with a cancellation of health benefits if they do not cooperate by providing the requested information.
How to contact Medicare representative?
This is the number for you to contact a Medicare Health Insurance representative. Call Medicare Health Insurance at (800) Medicare (633-4227). And finally, at the bottom of the card will be a signature line. If all the information on your card is correct, be certain to sign your name on the signature line indicated.
How long does it take to get a replacement Medicare card?
In either application site or location, it will take about 30 days for you to receive your new replacement card by United States mail.
What is a social security number?
A social security number provides access to a multitude of personal information, which gives hackers and thieves the opportunity to commit crimes of identity theft. Old Medicare cards featured members’ social security numbers, allowing criminals easy access to this information when the cards were sent via mail or presented at places like physicians’ offices, pharmacies or other provider agencies.
What is ESRD in Medicare?
Railroad Retirement Board benefits. Have been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) The majority of people qualify for Part A of Medicare automatically (from working and paying into Social Security). Part B coverage requires you pay a premium for each month’s coverage and has optional plans available.
Why is Medicare card made of paper?
The new Medicare card is made of paper to make it easier for medical providers to use and copy. Many Medicare recipients have wondered if they can do something to protect it from damage. Pulling your card in and out of your wallet can certainly take its toll. The paper may start to shred and fade over time.
What does a new Medicare card look like?
The new Medicare card will look similar to your old one , but there are differences. The new card will still be red, white, and blue, but will show a unique identification number instead of your Social Security number. Your effective dates for Part A and/or Part B will still be printed on the front of the card.
When will Medicare cards be released?
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that new Medicare cards would be delivered to all Medicare recipients between April 2018 and April 2019. A new identification card will be delivered to anyone who receives Medicare benefits.
Do you have to update your address for Medicare?
New Medicare cards are being sent out automatically to everyone who receives Medicare benefits. You do not have to do anything as long as your address is current. If you need to update your address, visit your MySocialSecurity account.
Can you laminate a Social Security card?
The paper may start to shred and fade over time. Although it is not illegal to laminate your card , the Social Security administration advises against it. Laminating the card may prevent built-in security features of the card from being recognized. Instead, consider buying a plastic card holder to keep it intact.
When do you have to enroll in Medicare if you don't qualify?
If you don’t enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, in most cases you’ll have to wait until the General Enrollment Period, which takes place from January to March 31 every year. You may have to pay a late-enrollment penalty for Medicare Part B (and for Medicare Part A, if you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A). ...
How old do you have to be to get Medicare?
Medicare sends you a red, white, and blue card when you’re signed up. You’re generally eligible for Medicare if you’re a United States citizen or permanent legal resident of at least five continuous years, and you generally qualify by age (65 or older). However, you may qualify for Medicare before turning 65 if you receive Social Security ...
How to contact Medicare if you are married?
If you’re a TTY user, you can call 1-312-751-4701. You can also sign up online at in person. If you’re married, you and your spouse should each have your own separate Medicare cards with separate Medicare claim numbers. Don’t mix them up, and never use each other’s cards.
What is the number to call for Social Security?
Social Security: 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, from 7AM to 7PM. If you’re a TTY user, you can call 1-800-325-0778. Railroad Retirement Board : 1-877-772-5772, Monday through Friday, from 9AM to 3:30PM. If you’re a TTY user, you can call 1-312-751-4701. You can also sign up online at in person.
When will Medicare start?
If you turn 65 years old. If you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, when you reach age 65. Your Medicare card should arrive about three months before your 65th birthday, and your Medicare coverage starts the first day ...
When will Medicare be available for Social Security?
If you get Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare after 24 months of collecting disability. Your Medicare card should arrive in the 25th month.
Do you have to pay late enrollment penalty for Medicare?
You may have to pay a late-enrollment penalty for Medicare Part B (and for Medicare Part A, if you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A). Some people decide to delay Medicare Part B enrollment if they have other coverage, since Part B comes with a premium.
What happens after you enroll in Medicare?
After enrolling in Medicare, you will receive your Medicare identification card so that you can use it to receive healthcare coverage at a variety of different facilities across the United States. Since Medicare is a government-run entity, applications for insurance coverage are handled by the Social Security Administration.
How many months are you eligible for Medicare?
The seven months encompass the three months prior to your birthday, your birth month, and the three months following your birth month. You are able to apply for Medicare in a few different ways. If you prefer to apply in person, you can do so at your local Social Security office.
How long does it take to get Medicare?
This date marks the beginning of your Initial Enrollment Period. This period lasts for a total of seven months , and you must apply for Medicare coverage during this period to avoid having to pay late enrollment penalties. The seven months encompass the three months prior to your birthday, your birth month, and the three months following your birth month.
Is Medicare dependent on Social Security?
Unlike Social Security benefits, Medicare eligibility is not dependent on retirement. However, if you are already receiving Social Security benefits at the age of 65, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare. It is important to note that even if you are automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B, you still must apply to Part D separately ...
Does Medicare cover prescription drugs?
Original Medicare encompasses both Part A and Part B. At the time you apply for Original Medicare, you also have the ability to sign up for Medicare Part D coverage, which covers prescription drugs.
How to get a replacement Medicare card?
Go to Sign In or Create an Account. Once you are logged in to your account, select the "Replacement Documents" tab. Then select “Mail my replacement Medicare card.”. Your Medicare card will arrive in the mail in about 30 days at the address on file with Social Security so be sure to make sure your mailing address is correct before completing ...
What happens if my Medicare card is stolen?
If your Medicare card was lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can request a replacement with your personal my Social Security account. If you don’t already have an account, you can create one online. Go to Sign In or Create an Account.
