
To be eligible for a health insurance card in the USA, you must be a US citizen or a lawfully present immigrant.
You can enroll in a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace during the annual Open Enrollment Period, which typically runs from November to December.
If you experience a qualifying life event, such as losing your job or getting married, you may be able to enroll outside of the Open Enrollment Period.
You can also enroll in a health insurance plan through your employer, if they offer it as a benefit.
Obtaining a Medicare Card
You can get a new Medicare card if your current one is lost or damaged. Log into your secure Medicare account to print or order a replacement card, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to have one sent in the mail.
TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048 for assistance.
If you've legally changed your name, your Medicare card will still show the name you had on file with Social Security.
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How to Obtain Another Medicare Card

If you've lost or damaged your Medicare card, you can easily get a replacement. Log into your secure Medicare account to print or order an official copy of your Medicare card.
You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to order a replacement card to be sent in the mail. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
If you've legally changed your name, your Medicare card will still show the name you had on file with Social Security.
Protect Your Medicare Number Like a Credit Card
Protect your Medicare Number like a credit card. Only give your Medicare Number to trusted individuals or organizations, such as your insurance companies, health plans, or licensed agents or brokers.
You should only share your personal information with people you trust, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) representative.
Medicare will never call you uninvited to ask for personal or private information.
Eligibility and Enrollment
To be eligible for health insurance in the USA, lawfully present immigrants must enroll in coverage within their 60-day Special Enrollment Period (SEP) window after receiving a green card.

Individuals can enroll in a health plan directly with a health insurer or through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace, also known as the Marketplace.
Lawfully present immigrants can also enroll in coverage sponsored by their employer, but must consider the cost of the plan and their potential future care needs.
The Marketplace helps you compare plans based on insurer, price, benefits, and networks, making it easier to choose the best coverage for you and your family.
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Check Eligibility
To check your eligibility for a Health Insurance Marketplace plan, you must meet certain requirements. You must live in the United States and be a U.S. citizen or national, or be lawfully present.
There is no income limit to be eligible to use the Health Insurance Marketplace. However, you cannot be incarcerated in prison or jail.
Here are the basic eligibility requirements in a quick rundown:
- Must live in the United States
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national (or be lawfully present)
- Cannot be incarcerated in prison or jail
These requirements are straightforward, and it's essential to make sure you meet them before proceeding with the enrollment process.
Immigrant Insurance Enrollment

To be eligible for health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you must live in the United States, be a U.S. citizen or national, or be lawfully present, and not be incarcerated.
Lawfully present immigrants can enroll in coverage sponsored by their employer or explore other individual and family coverage options through the Marketplace. This includes private green card holders who can enroll in a plan directly with a health insurer or through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace.
The Marketplace helps you compare plans based on insurer, price, benefits, and networks, to make the best coverage decision for you and your family. You can enroll in a Marketplace health plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period, which typically runs from November 1 through January 15.
However, individuals and families can enroll outside of Open Enrollment if they have a qualifying life event, such as becoming a lawful permanent resident. This qualifies them for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which must be done within their 60-day window.
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Green card holders who are not eligible for Medicaid may still qualify for income-based health insurance subsidies through the Health Insurance Marketplace. These subsidies can lower monthly premium costs and the amount you pay for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
Here's a breakdown of the subsidies available to green card holders:
- Advanced Premium Tax Credits: lower monthly premium costs based on income and household size
- Cost Sharing Reductions (CSRs): extra savings that lower the amount you pay for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, as well as out-of-pocket maximums
If you qualify for CSRs, you must enroll in a Silver metal level health plan to receive the extra savings.
Using Your Card
You'll typically receive your health insurance card in the mail within a few days of enrolling in a plan.
Your card is usually a plastic card with your name, policy number, and the name of your insurance company on it.
To use your card, simply present it to your healthcare provider at the time of service.
This will help them verify your coverage and ensure that you receive the care you need.
You can also use your card to get prescriptions filled at participating pharmacies.
Make sure to ask your pharmacist if they participate in your insurance network.
If you're unsure about the status of your card or have questions about your coverage, you can contact your insurance company's customer service department.
They'll be happy to help you resolve any issues you may have.
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Insurance for Green Cardholders

As a green card holder, you're entitled to essential resources like health insurance in the USA. Green card holders are non-US citizens who have been granted the legal right to permanently reside and work in the country.
Finding health insurance can be intimidating, but fortunately, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides access to health insurance for non-US citizens who are lawfully present in the United States. This includes health insurance for green card holders.
Health insurance for green card holders is an important component of their overall well-being as they establish their lives in their new home. Newly arrived immigrants should consider finding and enrolling in health insurance in the USA for several reasons.
Here are some benefits of health insurance for green card holders:
- Financial support for healthcare
- Preventive care and early intervention
- Emergency care
- Pharmacy coverage
To enroll in health insurance, lawfully present immigrants may either enroll in coverage sponsored by their employer or explore other individual and family coverage options. The cost of health insurance for non-US citizens can vary depending on the level of coverage they select.
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The Marketplace helps you compare plans based on insurer, price, benefits, and networks, to make the best coverage decision for you and your family. Lawfully present immigrants can enroll in a plan directly with a health insurer or through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace.
Individuals and families must purchase coverage through the Marketplace during the annual Open Enrollment Period that typically runs from November 1 through January 15. However, individuals and families can enroll in a Marketplace health plan outside the Open Enrollment timeframe if they have a qualifying life event.
Upon receiving a green card, individuals should enroll in health insurance, whether through their employer or the Marketplace, within their 60-day SEP window.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a US health insurance card?
A US health insurance card, also known as an insurance ID card, is a document that proves you have health insurance coverage and grants you access to medical care and services. It's similar to a passport or driver's license, but for healthcare.
How do I get a copy of my insurance card?
You can obtain a copy of your insurance card through a mobile app, card by mail, or a paper printout by requesting it via email or accessing your company's online portal. Check your company's specific options for obtaining your insurance card.
Is an insurance card proof of health insurance?
Yes, an insurance card is proof of health insurance, containing essential information that helps providers verify your coverage and ensure accurate billing.
Sources
- https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/using-medicare/your-medicare-card
- https://content.naic.org/article/consumer-insight-understanding-your-health-insurance-card
- https://www.usa.gov/health-insurance-marketplace
- https://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/how-to-use-your-insurance
- https://www.anthem.com/individual-and-family/insurance-basics/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-green-card-holders
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