Protect yourself
Your Medicare card: replacing it and keeping your number safe
What your Medicare card shows, when to use it, how to print or order a replacement, and how to protect your Medicare Number from scams.
Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026 · How we check facts
What's on your card
Your red, white and blue Medicare card shows your Medicare Number, which is unique to you and isn't your Social Security Number. It shows whether you have Part A (listed as HOSPITAL), Part B (MEDICAL) or both, and the date each started.
When to use it
- Original Medicare: show your Medicare card to your doctor, hospital or other provider.
- Medicare Advantage: use your plan's card instead. Keep your Medicare card somewhere safe in case you switch back to Original Medicare. For some services, like hospice, you may still need it.
- Drug plan: use your plan's card at the pharmacy.
If you lose it
- Print or order an official copy in your Medicare.gov account. This is the fastest way.
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877-486-2048) to have one mailed to you.
- If you get Railroad Retirement benefits, call the Railroad Retirement Board at 1-877-772-5772.
Once a new card arrives, destroy the old one so no one can read your information. Lost plan cards are replaced by your plan.
Keep your Medicare Number safe
- Give it only to your doctors and other Medicare providers, insurance companies and their licensed agents, your plans, or state programs that work with Medicare.
- Don't share it with anyone who calls, emails or comes to your door unless you contacted them first.
- Medicare will never call you uninvited to ask for your Medicare Number or other personal information.
- Check your Medicare Summary Notices and plan statements for care you didn't get.
If you think someone is using your Medicare Number, call 1-800-MEDICARE. Learn the common tricks in Medicare scams.
Common questions
How do I replace a lost Medicare card?
Log in to your Medicare.gov account to print or order an official copy, or call 1-800-MEDICARE to have one mailed. If you get Railroad Retirement benefits, call the RRB at 1-877-772-5772.
Is my Medicare Number my Social Security Number?
No. Your Medicare Number is a unique number for Medicare only.
Do I use my Medicare card if I have Medicare Advantage?
Use your plan's card to get care, but keep your Medicare card somewhere safe. You may need it for some services, like hospice, or if you switch back to Original Medicare.
Will Medicare call me about a new card?
Medicare won't call you uninvited to ask for your Medicare Number or other personal information. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE if you're unsure.
Sources
- Medicare.gov: Your Medicare card
- Medicare.gov: Replacement Medicare card letter
- Medicare.gov: Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans (booklet)
- Medicare & You 2027 handbook
General information, not advice about a specific plan.