Not having your Medicare card can prevent you from getting certain entitlements when you need them the most
There are many situations that come to mind, and here are just some instances worth mentioning.
Applying for Half Fare MetroCard
In instances where you are applying for a half fare MetroCard, they require that you bring 2 valid IDs. One must be with a photo, and the other one commonly used is your Medicare Card;
Applying for Medicaid/ Medicare Savings Program
In cases when you are applying for Medicaid benefits, or Medicare Saving Program, a copy of your Medicare card is required to be provided as part of the documents required to be gathered – before you full application is submitted.
Senior Discount Days at Supermarkets
Some supermarkets may require that you show them your ID and your Medicare card before you can reap the benefits of their Senior Discount Day Events.
Changing Insurances
If you have an urgent situation with your current plan, and want to change your PDP or Medicare Advantage plan to another insurance carrier, they would need your Medicare number and Medicare effective dates to assist.
3 Things you can do
1. Call Medicare:
If you misplaced or lost your Red, White, and Blue Card, Call 1-800-Medicare (1800-633-4227) and request a new card. It usually takes about 4-6 Weeks for the new card to come in. You can also request them to provide you with your Medicare Number along with the Effective Dates for your records.
2. Requesting Medicare Card Online
You can also request a replacement Medicare Card Online, or order or print a replacement card by logging into your mymedicare.gov account.
3. Keeping a copy of your records
Make sure to keep a photocopy of your important identification and write down any important numbers ( like your Medicare number); Just in case if something gets misplaced, you will have a record for the future reference and make sure you keep these documents in a safe place.
Disclaimer:
The information provided above is for educational purposes, and expresses my knowledge and experience working in the New York City Metropolitan area. The intention of this post is to help equip seniors, family, and friends with resources and information that can help you live a better and healthier life.
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