Which Medicare plan do you have?

You may be uncertain whether you have original Medicare or a private Medicare Advantage plan. The name on your insurance card probably doesn't say "Medicare Advantage." Instead, it might list a plan name, like "Secure Horizons."

Here's how to find out which Medicare plan you have:

• Call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227)
• The system will ask you to say your "Medicare number." That's the number on your red, white, and blue Medicare card (see example). Everyone has this card, even those enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.
• The system will give you some options. Select 0 for a customer service representative.
• When the representative comes on the line, you will be asked for your Medicare number again, as well as some other identifying information such as date of birth and full address.
• Once your identity has been confirmed, ask the rep: "Could you tell me whether I have original Medicare or Medicare Advantage"?
• You will be told either:
  
  "There's no Medicare Advantage plan on file"
  
  OR the name of your Medicare Advantage plan.

Caregivers can make this call on behalf of a Medicare enrollee, if they have the identifying information.