Keeping your information up to date with Medicare is crucial. If you change your name or address, you must report it quickly to avoid delays in receiving benefits, claims issues, or missed communications.
Follow these steps to stay on track.
Step 1: Check if you are enrolled in Medicare or Social Security
First, determine if you are receiving Social Security benefits along with Medicare. If you are, the Social Security Administration (SSA) manages your Medicare records. Therefore, you must report changes directly to SSA.
Even if you only have Medicare and no Social Security benefits, you still need to use SSA to update your information.
Step 2: Choose how to report the change
You have three options to update your name or address through the Social Security Administration:
- Online: Log into your “my Social Security” account at the SSA website and update your address. However, name changes require additional steps.
- By phone: Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- In person: Visit your local Social Security office. Although appointments are recommended, they are not mandatory.
To change your name, bring legal documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Step 3: Notify your Medicare Advantage or Part D provider
If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or a standalone Part D prescription drug plan, you must also inform your plan provider. Updating your information with them ensures there are no disruptions in your coverage or mailed documents.
Step 4: Confirm that your information has been updated
After you report your change, allow a few weeks for processing. Then confirm that the updates were successful by:
- Logging into your “my Social Security” account.
- Reviewing your next Medicare letter or statement.
- Calling SSA to verify the update.
If you spot any errors, contact SSA or your plan provider right away.
Key Takeaways
- Report name or address changes through the Social Security Administration.
- Update your information online, by phone, or in person.
- Notify your Medicare Advantage or Part D provider separately.
- Always confirm updates to avoid missed communications.
For more information, visit Medicare.gov or SSA.gov.
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