Do You Need a New Medicare Card in 2021?
In an effort to curtail fraud and identity theft, Medicare undertook the demanding as well as a far-reaching project of printing millions of new Medicare Cards to be issued to practically 60 million individuals in the United States. The new cards are printed with Medicare beneficiary identifiers as opposed to Social Security numbers (SSNs), which makes them far more difficult for criminals to replicate your Medicare Card.
The initiative started back in April 2018 and was supposed to be completed by April 2019. Unfortunately, there are still many people who have yet to receive their new cards. Fortunately, recipients of the new cards are not subject to changes in Medicare eligibility, so there is no need to worry about that. Further, one can always call at 1-800-MEDICARE to speak to a representative who can provide you with the necessary information in order for you to receive your new Medicare card.
Medicare cards are often sent three months ahead of the month that you will turn 65 years of age. The card comes in the mail and often looks like junk mail so make sure to keep your eye out so you don’t accidentally throw it away. If you’re not sure whether you will get your card sent to you automatically give Medicare a call or if you have other questions you can give us a call at 866-319-5886 and we will help answer any questions you have.
Why Is It Important for Me to Show My Doctors My New Medicare Card?
To ensure your healthcare quality and coverage, your healthcare provider will need to record your Medicare Benefits Index (MBI) to access clinical information about you, learn when and where the services are provided, and receive the payment for the cost incurred. Generally, the hospitals, pharmacies, doctors, and other healthcare providers who accept Medicare will follow the standard procedure of asking you to show them your New Medicare ID card so they can file for the medical claim on your behalf. If you fail to show them your new id or provide them with an outdated Medicare Card with Social Security number, your healthcare provider may not be able to fulfill the filing procedure, and, as a result, you might have to pay the entire cost from your own pocket.
Is My Medicare Card Free?
Applicants who are eligible for Medicare, including individuals with disabilities or who already have a Medicare Card, get their new Medicare card free of charge. However, for those who are not eligible for Medicare, the issuance of a new Medicare card will require to pay a fee. The new Medicare cards are typically sent in the mail within 12 to 32 days. You can also check the status of your new card at https://account.mymedicare.gov/.
How to Replace a Lost Medicare Card?
Just like many other vital cards, you might end up losing your Medicare card. While it’s not an ideal situation to be in, it does happen, and there’s no reason to panic. In most cases, Medicare has built-in procedures that allow you to get a replacement for your lost Medicare card via mail. Just call at 1-800-772-1213 and explain you have lost your Medicare card. After confirming your identity, Medicare will send you a new Medicare card in the mail. Typically, you will receive a new card within ten days. However, you can always check the status on the official website – www.medicare.gov.
What can I do after I have my Medicare Card?
Once you have your Medicare card you can start to look into your Medicare supplement options and sign up for a plan. You will start to learn that there is a lot of choices for you when it comes to a Medicare plan. Getting a hold of an independent broker is one of the best things you can do to help decide what the best option is for you. You can always get in touch with us by giving us a call at 866-319-5886 or fill out the form below and we will get in touch with you as well.