2019 UPDATE:
With the new Medicare cards now being issued, this article no longer applies. But, for historical reference, this article will remain on our website.
What does the letter “T” mean in my Medicare number?
The nine numerals in your Medicare number identify the Social Security record serving as the basis of Medicare. The letter or letters following that number describe the relationship between the person with that record and the person whose name is on the card. According to Social Security’s code list, “T” means the person has elected to receive only health insurance benefits (no Social Security) and is entitled to Medicare Part A under deemed or real provisions or fully insured.
Some other common letters for Medicare beneficiaries:
- “A” identifies the primary claimant (wage earner) who has qualified for the benefits.
- “B” identifies a wife, age 62 or over, whose benefits are related to her husband’s record. Adding a 1 (B1) identifies a husband receiving benefits based on the wife’s record.
- “D” is a widow and "D1" is a widower, aged 60 or over.
- "E1" is a surviving divorced mother and "E5" is a surviving divorced father.
Remember, beneficiaries who have elected Medicare Advantage have Medicare cards and numbers. However, when receiving healthcare services or prescription medications, they must show their subscriber or identification card, not the Medicare card.
Important: This information applies to existing Medicare beneficiaries whose cards still have Social Security numbers. The cards going to new beneficiaries no longer have those numbers. Eventually, everyone on Medicare will get a new card.
Learn about the numbers and letters on a Medicare or Social Security card.
Last updated: 06-25-2018
