Laminating a Medicare card is not allowed as it may interfere with some of its security features. However, a person can cover the card with removable plastic if it does not damage it.
A Medicare ID card consists of thick, white paper, so it should be fairly resilient. However, it can fade over time with wear and tear.
Using a removable plastic sleeve or other removable materials can help protect it from becoming worn over time.
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Medicare and the Social Security Administration (SSA) advise against laminating a Medicare card or other official document, such as a Social Security card.
This is because lamination may interfere with the card’s security features, such as the ability to scan certain details or detect tampering.
However, it is acceptable to keep it safe in a plastic cardholder, clear plastic sleeve, or other removable protector.
Instead of laminating a Medicare card, a person can consider these options to help protect it:
- Using a plastic cardholder: A transparent sleeve or card protector can help protect the card from wear and tear.
- Storing it safely: Keep it in a secure, easily accessible place at home or in a wallet.
- Photocopying the card: Make a photocopy or keep a digital version, such as a photo, on a secure device in case it gets damaged or lost.
It is important to keep the Medicare card in a safe place, as a person cannot buy Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) or join a Medicare health or drug plan without it.
Additionally, people with Original Medicare, a Medicare drug plan, or supplemental coverage should carry their Medicare card with them in a wallet when not at home. This is in case they need to go to the hospital for an emergency.
They must show their Medicare card to a doctor, hospital, or other healthcare professional when receiving services.
Protecting the physical card and its information is also important. A person needs to protect their Medicare number like they would a credit card number.
Additionally, individuals should only give personal information, such as their Medicare number, to people they trust who work with Medicare. These include:
- certified healthcare professionals
- trusted insurance companies
- health plans and their licensed agents
- those working with official bodies such as a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
Avoiding scams
Some scammers may try to steal a person’s Medicare information to make false claims and commit fraud. This can damage an individual’s medical records and affect their medical care.
Medicare will never call unprompted and request personal or private information. An individual should never share their Medicare information with someone who calls them unsolicited over the phone, by email, or in person.
Some scammers might try to scare people into handing over information by posing as Medicare and threatening to cancel their health benefits.
If this occurs, the person should hang up immediately and report the incident to Medicare.
They can do this by contacting Medicare by:
- calling 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227)
- using TTY: 877-486-2048
- visiting the Medicare website
If a person loses their Medicare card or it becomes damaged or stolen, they can easily request a replacement:
- Online: Sign into the Medicare.gov website, select “My card,” then select “Get a new card and number.”
- By phone: Call Social Security at 800-772-1213 to request a replacement card.
- In person: Visit a local Social Security office for assistance. A person can follow this link to locate their nearest Social Security office.
Replacement cards usually arrive within 30 days. A person may print a temporary card from their online account if needed.
If a person needs further assistance with Medicare card issues or has questions about Medicare coverage, they can:
- Call the Medicare Hotline: Call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) for assistance.
- Visit the Medicare website: A person can log into Medicare.gov and use their chat feature to contact a Medicare customer service operative. They can select the “Chat” icon in the top right-hand corner and type in the issue.
- Contact their SHIP: SHIP provides free, personalized counseling services for Medicare beneficiaries in each state.
- Go to their local Social Security Office: They can provide information relating to your Medicare card and coverage.
Why is the Medicare card paper and not plastic?
Medicare prints its cards on paper instead of plastic because paper cards are easier to issue and replace.
Paper cards are also more cost-effective and environmentally friendly, especially considering the large number of beneficiaries who require them.
Additionally, the paper format allows beneficiaries to easily store or fold the card without needing specialized equipment.
Can I get a plastic Medicare card?
Medicare only provides paper cards and advises against laminating them or contacting a third-party provider to create one, as this may endanger the person’s personal information.
Instead, an individual can help keep it safe by using a removable plastic covering, such as a plastic cardholder or plastic document sleeve.
Governmental bodies generally do not recommend laminating a Medicare card or other official documents, as this may interfere with some important security features.
However, using a plastic sleeve or other removable protector is a safe alternative.
If a person’s card becomes lost or damaged, they can request a replacement online, by phone, or at a Social Security office.