Create a Medicare Account
New to Medicare.gov? Follow these steps to create your account and access your Medicare benefits online.
Ready to Create Your Account?
Click below to go directly to the Medicare.gov registration page
Create Medicare Account →Official government website • Free to create
📋 What You'll Need
- ✓Medicare card — Your red, white, and blue Medicare card with your Medicare number
- ✓Photo ID — Driver's license, state ID, or passport for identity verification
- ✓Email address — A valid email you can access for confirmation
- ✓Phone number — For two-factor authentication codes
How to Create Your Medicare Account
Step 1: Go to Medicare.gov
Visit Medicare.gov and click 'Create account' or 'Sign Up' on the login page.
Step 2: Choose Your Sign-In Method
Select either Login.gov or ID.me to create and verify your identity. Both are free and secure.
Step 3: Verify Your Identity
Follow the prompts to upload a photo ID (driver's license or passport) and take a selfie for verification.
Step 4: Enter Your Medicare Information
Provide your Medicare number from your Medicare card, along with your date of birth and contact information.
Step 5: Set Up Two-Factor Authentication
Choose how you want to receive security codes — by text message, phone call, or authenticator app.
Step 6: Complete Registration
Review your information and submit. You'll receive a confirmation email when your account is ready.
Login.gov vs ID.me: Which Should I Choose?
Login.gov
- ✓ Government-run service
- ✓ Works with many federal agencies
- ✓ Free to use
- ✓ Photo ID + selfie verification
ID.me
- ✓ Private company
- ✓ Video chat verification option
- ✓ Free to use
- ✓ More verification methods available
Both are secure and accepted by Medicare.gov. Choose whichever is easier for you.
Having Trouble?
If you're having difficulty creating your account:
- • Make sure your Medicare card information is entered exactly as shown
- • Try a different web browser (Chrome or Edge work best)
- • Ensure your photo ID is clearly visible and not expired
- • Check that your camera is working for the selfie step
Still need help? Call Medicare:
1-800-633-4227
TTY: 1-877-486-2048 • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to create a Medicare account?
You'll need your Medicare number (from your red, white, and blue Medicare card), date of birth, and a valid email address. You'll also need a phone number for two-factor authentication.
What's the difference between Login.gov and ID.me?
Both are secure identity verification services accepted by Medicare.gov. Login.gov is a government service, while ID.me is a private company. Both require you to verify your identity with a photo ID and selfie or in-person verification.
Can I create a Medicare account without a smartphone?
Yes, you can use a landline phone for verification codes or choose in-person identity verification at a participating location. ID.me also offers video chat verification.
How long does it take to create a Medicare account?
The process typically takes 10-15 minutes if you have all your documents ready. Identity verification through Login.gov or ID.me may add a few extra minutes.