Medicare replaced all old cards with new ones between 2018 and 2019

Medicare stopped using Social Security numbers on your card and switched to a new Medicare number instead. If you were on Medicare during 2018 or 2019, you received a new card in the mail with a different number printed on it. The old cards are no longer valid, even if you still have them.

This change happened nationwide. Everyone on Medicare got a new card — there was no choice involved. The cards arrived over a two-year period, so some people received theirs earlier than others depending on when they first enrolled in Medicare.

If you never received a card, or if yours was lost or damaged after that time, you can order a replacement. Medicare will mail it to you at no cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Your old Medicare card with your Social Security number is no longer valid and should not be used.
  • Your new Medicare number is different from your Social Security number and appears on your current card.
  • If you never got a new card or yours was lost, you can order a replacement through Medicare at no cost.
  • You need your current Medicare number when you see a doctor, fill a prescription, or contact Medicare.
  • Replacement cards arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases.

Why Medicare changed the card system

Using Social Security numbers on Medicare cards created a security risk. Your Social Security number was visible to anyone who saw your card — your doctor's office, the pharmacy, billing staff. If your card was lost or stolen, someone could use that number for identity theft.

The new system protects your Social Security number by using a separate Medicare number instead. This number is unique to your Medicare account but is not connected to your Social Security number in the same way. You still need to provide your Social Security number when you first enroll in Medicare or when you contact Social Security directly, but it no longer appears on the card itself.

What your new card looks like

Your new Medicare card is the same size as a credit card and made of plastic. It has your name, your new Medicare number, and the dates your coverage began. The card shows which parts of Medicare you have — Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part D (prescription drug coverage), or Part C (Medicare Advantage). Some cards also show whether you have supplemental coverage.

The back of the card lists customer service phone numbers and a website. Keep your card with you when you go to the doctor or pharmacy. You may also want to take a photo of both sides and store it somewhere safe in case the physical card is lost.

How to order a replacement card

You can order a new card online through Medicare.gov without calling anyone. Go to the Medicare website, sign in to your account, and look for the option to order a replacement card. You will need to verify your identity — Medicare will ask you questions only you would know the answers to, based on your account history.

If you do not have an online account, you can create one using your email address and Social Security number. Once you are signed in, the replacement card option is usually on the main dashboard or under "My Health Information."

You can also call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to request a replacement. Have your current Medicare number ready if you have it, or be prepared to give your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The card will be mailed to the address Medicare has on file for you.

What to do with your old card

Destroy your old card once you have your new one. Cut it up or shred it so the numbers cannot be read. Do not throw it in the trash whole, because someone could find it and use your Social Security number.

You do not need to return the old card to Medicare. There is no form to fill out or envelope to send. straightforward destroy it and start using your new card for all doctor visits and prescriptions.

Using your new Medicare number

Your new Medicare number is what you give to doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and insurance companies. When you call Medicare or log into your account online, you can use either your Medicare number or your Social Security number to identify yourself, but Medicare will ask for your new number on most forms.

If a provider's office asks for your Medicare number and you do not have your card with you, you can give them your name and date of birth and they can look it up. However, it is easier to carry your card or have the number written down somewhere you can find it quickly.

If you never received a new card

If you were on Medicare in 2018 or 2019 and never got a new card, order a replacement now. The mailing period ended years ago, so if you do not have a card, you need to request one.

Check the address Medicare has on file for you first. If you moved and did not update your address with Medicare, the card may have been mailed to an old location. You can update your address online through your Medicare account or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. Once your address is correct, order your replacement card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my old Medicare card?

No. Your old card is no longer valid. Providers will not accept it, and you should not use it. If you still have your old card, destroy it and use your new one instead.

Is there a cost to get a replacement card?

No. Medicare sends replacement cards at no cost to you. Be cautious of websites or phone numbers that charge a fee — they are not official Medicare services.

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Most replacement cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your Medicare number before the card arrives, you can find it by logging into your Medicare account online or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.

What if I lost my card and need to see a doctor tomorrow?

Call your doctor's office and give them your Medicare number over the phone. You can find your number by logging into Medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. The office can look up your coverage using your name and date of birth if you do not have your number available.

Do I need to update my new Medicare number anywhere?

You do not need to do anything. Medicare automatically updated all providers, pharmacies, and insurance companies when the new cards were issued. Your coverage is already connected to your new number in all the systems that matter.