How to Cancel Medicare and Medicaid

Call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 (TTY 1-877-486-2048) to report the death. Say: "I need to report the death of a Medicare beneficiary, [name], Medicare number [number], who passed on [date]." Social Security typically notifies Medicare when a death is reported, but calling directly ensures the record is updated promptly and prevents the estate from being billed for premiums after the date of death.

If the deceased had separate supplemental insurance — a Medigap policy, Medicare Advantage plan, or Part D prescription drug plan — you must cancel each one separately. These are private insurance products and are not automatically canceled when Medicare is notified. Call each insurer's customer service number, found on the insurance card or on a premium statement. Request a refund of any premiums paid after the date of death.

If the deceased received Medicaid benefits (the federal-state program for low-income individuals, distinct from Medicare), be aware of Medicaid estate recovery. Under federal law, states are required to seek reimbursement from the estates of deceased Medicaid recipients for certain benefits paid, particularly nursing home care and long-term care services. The state may file a claim against the estate for the total amount of Medicaid benefits paid. There are important protections: recovery cannot be pursued while a surviving spouse, a child under 21, or a blind or disabled child is living. If you receive a Medicaid estate recovery notice, consult an elder law attorney — there may be grounds to challenge or reduce the claim, and some states offer hardship waivers.