Medicare Open Enrollment Scams: What You Need to Know!
Every year, millions of seniors review their Medicare coverage during Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7). Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of this period by pretending to be Medicare representatives, insurance agents, or government officials. Their goal is simple: to steal your personal information and your money.
Common Open Enrollment Scams
Fake Medicare Calls: Scammers call claiming to be from Medicare and ask for your Social Security or bank account number to “update your file.” Medicare will never call you directly to request this.
Phony Plan Representatives: Someone may pressure you into switching plans that don’t exist or are far more expensive.
Free Gifts or Rewards: Be cautious if someone offers free medical supplies or gift cards in exchange for your Medicare number.
Unauthorized Door-to-Door Visits: Insurance agents are not allowed to show up at your home uninvited.
The Rules of Open Enrollment
It’s important to know what is — and isn’t — allowed:
✔️ You must contact Medicare or an authorized provider directly to make changes.
✔️ Licensed agents can only contact you if you requested information.
✔️ No one can enroll you in a plan without your permission.
✔️ You should never be asked for payment directly over the phone.
How to Protect Yourself
Hang up on unsolicited calls claiming to be from Medicare.
Never share your Medicare, Social Security, or bank information over the phone.
- Verify any plan changes on the official site: Medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).