Things to know:
Your new card has an 11-digit Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI) Number
Identifier is a mix of numbers & letters
Identifier Replaces enrollee's Social Security Number
Your new MBI number will be sent automatically to Medicare beneficiaries
You need to update your address if there's been a change with the Social Security Administration, 800-772-1213
ONLY give your new card info to your medical providers - NOT TO STRANGERS
Washington will start to roll out your new Medicare Cards after the month of JUNE, 2018.
SCAMS:
You do not need to "activate" your new card
You do not need to "deactivate" your old card
You do not need to send anyone your old Medicare card
You do not need to pay for a new Medicare card
You do not need to pay for a temporary Medicare card
There are no refunds on your old card
There is no way to "expedite" delivery of your new card
You cannot choose your own Medicare number (MBI)
Medicare (CMS) or Social Security (SSA) will not call you about your account
Medicare (CMS) or Social Security (SSA) will never ask for your Social Security number, your bank account numbers or any other personal information.
Protect your new Medicare number. Only share with your health care providers.
If you have any questions, call:
Social Security: 800-772-1213
Medicare: 800-633-4227
Aging & Disability Resource Center:
Kitsap County 360-337-5700
Port Townsend 360-385-2552
Port Hadlock 360-379-5064
Sequim 360-452-3221
Pierce County 253-798-4600
Article submitted by:
Mary Coupland