If you received a text saying your Medicare card is expiring and you need to request a new plastic chip card, this page explains exactly what that message is and why you should not click the link.
The short answer
This is a documented scam. Medicare cards are always paper. There is no plastic chip card program. The text is designed to get you to click a link so scammers can collect your Medicare number or personal information.
Your current Medicare card is valid and does not expire. Medicare updated its cards in 2018 to remove Social Security numbers, but that process is complete. You do not need to do anything to keep your Medicare card active.
The exact message
Documented Medicare chip card text — flagged by CMS and state insurance departments
What is false
Medicare cards do not expire. There is no plastic chip card being issued by Medicare. The 2018 card update is complete and no further card changes are being sent by text. Any text claiming your card is expiring and asking you to click a link is attempting to collect your personal information.
What is actually available
Your Medicare card is valid as long as you are enrolled in Medicare. If you genuinely need a replacement card because yours is lost or damaged, call 1-800-MEDICARE or log into your account at Medicare.gov — never through a text link. There is no cost for a replacement card through official channels.
Read the full OTC card and flex card eligibility guide to see exactly how these benefits work, who qualifies, and what amounts are realistic in different counties.
Official sources
Verify a message or report fraud through these official resources:
Medicare.gov — Report Medicare fraud and abuse
Senior Medicare Patrol — smpresource.org
FTC ReportFraud.gov
Find your local SHIP counseling program — shiphelp.org
Common questions
What to do next
We'll check whether the message you received looks legitimate and what real OTC, grocery, or flex card benefits may actually be available in your county — at no cost and no obligation.
If you received a text, call, or email about a Medicare benefit card, we can help you check whether it looks legitimate before you respond.
Want to know what real OTC, grocery, dental, or flex benefits are available in your ZIP code? Start with our full eligibility guide.
Free Medicare Scam & Benefits Check
Enter your ZIP code and phone number. A licensed agent will check whether the message you received looks legitimate and what real extra benefits may be available in your area.
