How do I get a Medicare Card – When Will I get a New Card

Your Medicare card is a prerequisite before you can receive any healthcare services covered under the program. It proves that you are a valid member and that you qualify for benefits. In that realization, you could be asking how do I get a Medicare card. Well, it is not a difficult process as you will learn here.

How do I get a Medicare Card?

This post has got every angle covered for you about any questions you may have about Medicare and Medicare card. It will tell you how to get and replace your card, and what makes you eligible for medicare. 

When You Should Expect Your Medicare Card

For those already enjoying their benefits from Rail Board Retirement and Social Security, you should expect your Medicare card not later than 3 months to your 65th birthday. If you meet all the qualification criteria for Social Security benefits, then you are an automatic candidate for Medicare Part A. For Medicare Part B, you will have to apply for it at the same time you apply for your retirement benefits. You’ll also have to apply separately to supplement insurance, such as Plan D.

The qualification for Medicare benefit is open to all American citizens as well as those on permanent residence and have lived in the country for 5 continuous years. The age requirement for medicare is 65, but applying early means you will get everything worked out in advance. An exception is given to those with predetermined disability as provided for in the act. 

How to Apply for Medicare Card

For Medicare Part A and Part B, here are several options to apply and get the card;

• Physically visit local or state Social Security offices.
• Making a toll-free call to Social Security via the number provided on their contact page. You can talk to them any day from Monday to Friday between 7am and 7pm. For former railroad employees, call Railroad Retirement Board on their official contact on Monday to Friday between 8am and 3:30pm.
• Make your application online by visiting social security’s official website.

Replacing Medicare Card

It is possible for your Medicare card to get lost or be stolen. When that happens, you will need a replacement because you cannot access services without it. Your personal information and details will be requested before the replacement is done. 

The replacement will be delivered through your last active mailing address. Therefore, it is advisable to always keep your address up to date. Typically, it takes 30 days for the replacement to be mailed to you. 

How to Safely Use Your Medicare Card

Although some healthcare facilities and personnel will demand to physically see your card when you seek services, it is recommended that you do not always carry the card with you. It is also not safe to share your Medicare ID number with any other person. Only you and your doctor should know it. 

In Conclusion

Having health insurance is important because you never know when unexpected medical expenses will occur. How do I get a Medicare card? If this question has been in your mind, now you have the answers. It is pretty effortless to get the card. You will also have no trouble replacing it if it is lost or stolen.