One of the questions I get asked the most is: “How do I know if what I see and hear is a scam?”
Let me help you navigate this situation as best I can from the questions I have been asked.
Scenario #1
You’ve seen the commercials, heard all of the wonderful things that Medicare beneficiaries can get and you’re concerned about their legitimacy? When a company is paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for an aging celebrity to talk about all of the benefits you can get by calling their number, you can be pretty sure they are not a scam. Scammers want your information and money, not to spend theirs…… PROBABLY NOT A SCAM
Scenario #2
If you get a phone call from an “Insurance Provider” and they ask you to verify your Social Security Number……DO NOT GIVE IT OUT! Hang up immediately and do not give out any information….. PROBABLY A SCAM
Scenario #3
I get dozens of calls every day about Medicare….who can I trust? The best advice is to trust your gut. If someone calls and asks you questions that you feel are either too personal or too explicit (such as your Social Security number) Hang up…... PROBABLY A SCAM
Scenario #4
If you get a call, and the agent you speak with is willing to give you a call back number that is local (Scammers normally will not give you a call back number)
Then it is…….PROBABLY NOT A SCAM
Scenario #5
You currently have the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), but are now turning 65 and enter Medicare. (Your “HIP” will eventually terminate since you can not have “HIP” and Medicare together) An agent tells you that he/she can enroll you in a Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP). In this situation you should be cautious as being on HIP does not automatically qualify you for a DSNP plan. You will have to apply for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) and get approved to be eligible for the DSNP plan.…... PROBABLY A SCAM
Scenario #6
You have spoken to an agent and have decided on the plan you want to enroll in. You are enrolled and think you are all set, but you keep getting calls from people trying to get you into “Their Plan”……….Technically Not a Scam but non-compliant
It can be very annoying to continue to get calls. First, tell the person on the other end that you already have an agent and then hang up. If that does not work, you can always register for the National Do Not Call Registry:
The National Do Not Call Registry lets you limit the telemarketing calls you receive.
Stop unwanted sales calls by registering your phone number
Call: 1-888-382-1222
Online: https://www.donotcall.gov/
Summary
The best thing you can do is trust your gut. If it feels uncomfortable or they are asking questions that are too personal, hang up. Word of mouth and referrals from your family and friends to trusted local agents or brokers is a good place to start. For more tips on picking a Medicare broker click here .