I'm New to Medicare. Do I need my card to enroll in a drug plan or Medigap?

Answer: No, but we do typically need your Medicare number.

If you applied for Medicare Part A and Part B a few weeks ago, but still haven't yet received your Medicare card in the mail, here's how to find your new Medicare number

Log into:  my Social Security Account

Sign In to your account at https://secure.ssa.gov/RIL to see the status of your Medicare application.

If your Medicare application has been approved, click the PDF icon to "Print / Save a letter proving you receive or do not receive Social Security Benefits (PDF)." 

That letter should contain your new Medicare number, which is what we need to add prescription drug coverage plus supplemental coverage to that (or pick a Medicare Advantage plan).

Screenshot of "my Social Security" account in 2021 showing the status of a person's application for Medicare Part A and Part B.

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"Your Benefit Verification Letter"

Alternatively, you may be able to click "Your Benefit Verification Letter" to download a PDF of your personalized letter, which contains your Medicare number and effective dates.

A screenshot of a person's "my Social Security" online account dashboard, showing Medicare Enrollment Details and a link to download the "Benefit Verification Letter" or order a replacement Medicare Card (Part A & Part B only). Screenshot as of 2025, website subject to change.

Your Medicare Card and Medicare number are issued by the Social Security administration and consists of Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance), but a person needs to add prescription drug coverage plus supplemental coverage to that (or pick a Medicare Advantage plan).

Schedule a Phone Appointment for help.