A question that we frequently receive is, “Can I laminate my Medicare card?” It’s an important question because you don’t want to invalidate your card by altering it. Your Social Security card, Driver’s License and Medicare card are a few of the most important types of identification you have. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, you surely wish to protect your card. If you’re someone who’s thinking about laminating your Medicare card, here’s what you need to know:
Can You Laminate Your Medicare Card?
The short answer is – YES.
There are no laws or rules against lamination. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not recommend laminating your Medicare card. When you laminate a Medicare card, there’s a chance that the coating may cause problems with the card’s security features.
Is there a Laminating alternative?
Yes! You can simply use a clear plastic card sleeve or holder like the image below. A plastic sleeve will allow you to access your card, but also protect it.
Sign your Medicare card before laminating
If you choose to laminate your Medicare card, make sure you sign the card before lamination. If you attempt to sign your Medicare card after it was laminated, the signature will be almost impossible to read. If this happens, your medical provider may not accept it.
Don’t worry!
If you happen to laminate your Medicare card before signing it, you can simply request a new replacement card. There are 3 ways to accomplish this:
- Online: Visit the Social Security Administration website
- Phone: Call the Social Security Administration
- Visit: Find to your nearest local Social Security office.
Additional Resources
