New Medicare ID card is on its way

The newer, safer version of the Medicare identification card is on its way to Idahoans who utilize the federal health plan.

According to the Department of Insurance, the new ID card is designed to help prevent fraud and identity theft. Updated cards are now being mailed automatically at no cost to Idaho residents and should arrive within the next few weeks.

Old Medicare cards that once relied on a member’s Social Security number are being replaced with a new, 11-character identifier using digits and letters uniquely designed for the Medicare beneficiary. Officials warn Medicare recipients to be aware of suspicious or fraudulent callers requesting payments or soliciting private information in order for the card to be sent.

Medicare beneficiaries with questions can contact the Idaho Department of Insurance by calling 800-247-4422.

Once a new card arrives, old cards should be destroyed.