Even before reaching 65, most people have experienced a plethora of scams that aim to take your money and personal information. Those calls typically keep coming and as you approach 65, they may get even worse. Some people are trying to desperately scam you out of money while others are aggressively trying to get you into a Medicare plan that you might not be prepared for. It’s very important to know how to avoid scams when applying for Medicare.
Unfortunately, many people fall prey to these calls and end up enrolling in plans they didn’t intend to or giving out personal information they shouldn’t have. Giving out sensitive information like your Social Security number or credit card details can lead to fraud and identity theft. As you prepare to apply for Medicare, it’s crucial to be aware of potential Medicare scams and learn how to protect yourself from them.
There are various ways scammers target Medicare beneficiaries. They use phone, email, and television commercials to deceive you.
Avoid Phone Scams When Applying for Medicare:
The phone scams are relentless. Scammers use phone calls to trick you into giving out personal information. They may claim that your policy has a problem or that you’re missing out on benefits. They may sound very professional but then they will ask you questions to obtain your Social Security or Medicare number. Some may also pretend to be from Medicare or Social Security and ask for credit card information to issue a refund or payment.
The key is to remember this: Medicare cards do not expire, so be cautious of such calls. The government will never call you directly seeking this information. If you receive such calls, hang up and call Medicare or Social Security directly to handle the situation.
Tip: Register your phone number on the national Do Not Call list to limit random calls.
Avoid Email Scams When Applying for Medicare:
Email is another way that scammers try to get at your personal information. Be cautious of emails claiming to be from Medicare or Social Security. If you haven’t taken recent action with either program, absolutely do not click on any links or attachments. Hackers may try to get into your email and computer, so always call Medicare or Social Security to verify if you should have received the email and what the attachment or link contains.
Misleading T.V. Commercials:
Perhaps our biggest issue with Medicare scams comes from seemingly pleasant T.V. commercials. Nearly all Medicare Advantage commercials are misleading. They will promise amazing benefits and even giving you money back on your Part B. However, most of the plans advertised apply only to specific zip codes or very low-income individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Whatever you do, do not buy a Medicare plan over a 1-800 number you see on TV. Contact your agent and research before changing your plan.
Get a Medicare Broker on Your Side
One surefire way to avoid many Medicare scams is to enlist a Medicare broker. The best part is that your broker will for you for absolutely no money. They get paid from the insurance companies, so they can help you at no cost.
When your specifically choose MedicareInc.com, you are choosing the most trustworthy team of brokers and agents that have seen it all. They will get you in the plan that suits you and help you protect your sensitive information. The even better part is that you can toss Medicare junk mail and hang up on any other Medicare calls.
How to Continually Avoid Medicare Scams:
Despite daily scam calls, you can take measures to avoid falling for Medicare scams. Be vigilant and avoid giving out personal information over the phone or email. Verify emails and call Medicare or Social Security directly if in doubt. Lastly, research before buying any Medicare plan advertised on TV. If research is not your pot of tea, then let the experts at MedicareInc.com walk you through the Medicare maze. Not only will they help you in enroll in a proper plan, but you will have someone to contact anytime you have a Medicare issue.
When signing up for Medicare, apply for Part A and Part B through the Social Security Administration’s website or by calling them directly. Beware of telemarketers or agents offering to apply for you as they may ask for sensitive personal information.
Final Thoughts on Avoiding Scams When Applying for Medicare
Only give personal information to agents you trust. Private insurance companies also sell Medicare Supplement plans which can be purchased by calling carriers or a Medicare broker. Remember that Medicare and Social Security will rarely call you first, so be wary of unsolicited calls from scammers claiming to be from Medicare. Do not give out personal information unless you trust the person you are speaking with. If you suspect fraud, report it to 1-800-MEDICARE or 1-877-486-2048. Always verify information with your agent or insurance carrier. With over 60 million people enrolled in the program, be prepared for a flood of phone calls and take caution when communicating with unfamiliar callers.
