February 23, 2018

Medicare to Mail New Cards Starting April 2018

Medicare is mailing new MeNew Medicare Carddicare cards with new numbers to Arkansans starting April 2018.  The new ID numbers will no longer include the beneficiary’s Social Security number. This change is being made in an effort to combat fraud and identity theft. You do not need to take any action to receive your new card. Here are a few things to remember:

  • If you need to update your address with Social Security, do so now to ensure that you receive your card as soon as possible.
  • Mailing takes time. Your neighbor may receive his or her card before you. This does NOT mean there is a problem.
  • Once you receive your new Medicare card, destroy your old one and start using the new one right away.
  • GUARD YOUR CARD! Only give new Medicare number to your doctors, pharmacists, other healthcare providers, your insurers, or people you know and trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.
  • Your Medicare number is unique to you, even though it no longer includes your Social Security number.
  • Carry your new card with you to every doctor appointment and remember to show it to them when you check in.
  • Keep your Medicare Advantage card. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you will still use that card at your doctor. However, you may still be asked to present your new Medicare card, so take it with you anyway.
  • REMEMBER: MEDICARE WILL NOT CALL YOU! Do not give your Medicare information to anyone who calls or visits your home. Medicare will never ask you to give them personal or private information to get your new Medicare number and card. They already have this information.
  • Help is available! If you don’t get your new Medicare card by NEXT April (2019), call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Watch out for scammers! Scam artists could saying you must confirm your Medicare number, Social Security number or other personal information in order to send your new card. This is NOT true. If anyone calls you and asks for your Medicare number or other personal information, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE or the Arkansas SMP 1-866-726-2916.