Medicare Rebate Check Fraud Alert

Medicare rebate checks for $250 started going out in the mail last week.  These rebate checks are also known as the donut hole checks and are estimated to be going to about 4 million eligible senior beneficiaries.

Seniors and their families should be aware that Medicare does not need any additional information in order to process and mail the rebate check.  There are no forms to complete and they will not be contacting you for information.

As Medicare will not be calling you, be aware that scam artists look for these types of opportunities to secure personal information from seniors.

Be alert for anyone calling to ask for your personal information or bank account number in connection with the rebate check.

Report anyone who calls you in regards to the Medicare rebate check to the Department of Health and Human Services' inspector general to investigate possible scams:  800-447-8477.

You may also find information about senior services in your state through Caregiverlist's "by state" information pages, including contact telephone numbers and e-mail addresses for resources in your area.