How Do I Replace My Medicare Card?

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The Medicare card is your proof that you have Medicare health insurance.  If your card is lost, stolen or damaged, you can ask for a new one by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting the Social Security website at www.ssa.gov .  You will need the name that appears on your card, your social security number and your date of birth.  Once you request a new card it should arrive in the mail in about 30 days.  It will be mailed to the address Social Security has on file.  If you need proof sooner than 30 days, you can also request a letter which you will receive in about 10 days.  If you have moved and have not reported this to Social Security, you will need to report the change before they can process your request.  If you need help in contacting Social Security to request a new Medicare card, contact the Senior LinkAge Line®.

The Senior LinkAge Line® is a free statewide service of the Minnesota Board on Aging and Area Agencies on Aging.  Specialists provide one-to-one assistance with helping older adults age well and live well.  The Senior LinkAge Line® is the federally-designated State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Minnesota and is the place to call for Medicare and health insurance issues. Call 1-800-333-2433 for assistance or go to www.MinnesotaHelp.info® to chat live with a Senior LinkAge Line® specialist.

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What is a Reverse Mortgage?

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A reverse mortgage is a special type of home loan that allows you to convert a portion of your home’s equity into cash without having to sell your home.  You may want to consider a reverse mortgage, if you are 62 years or older and looking for money to supplement your retirement income.  In a regular mortgage you make monthly payments to the lender. In a reverse mortgage you retain title to your home, receive money from the lender based on your home equity, and generally do not have to pay it back for as long as you live in your home. The loan is later repaid when the last surviving borrower dies, the home is sold or when the home is no longer your principal residence. The proceeds from the mortgage are tax-free.

Man holding a model house in his hand

If you are considering a reverse mortgage it is important to shop around to compare the terms of various lenders.  The upfront cost to take out a reverse mortgages can be substantial.  Therefore, it is important that you consider all your options.  If you decide a reverse mortgage is in your best interest, make sure you understand the costs and terms of the loan.  If you want more information about reverse mortgages call the Senior LinkAge Line®: A One Stop Shop for Minnesota Seniors at 1-800-333-2433 for more information.

The Senior LinkAge Line® is a free statewide service of the Minnesota Board on Aging and Area Agencies on Aging.  Specialists provide one-to-one assistance with helping older adults age well and live well.  The Senior LinkAge Line® is the federally-designated State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Minnesota and is the place to call for Medicare and health insurance issues. Call 1-800-333-2433 for assistance or go to www.MinnesotaHelp.info® to chat live with a Senior LinkAge Line® specialist.

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