FAQ

How do I know if a phone call is legitimate?

• Ask the caller for his or her name, company name, and callback number. You can call back later to verify the legitimacy of the source and the offer.
• If the call is from a charity, tell them to send you information in writing. Be sure to add that you do not give money to strangers over the telephone.
• If they are selling something and you are interested, ask for information in writing. If this is a one-time opportunity, tell them you do not make decisions over the phone.
• Most importantly, LISTEN for these red flags:
  • Are they asking for credit card information?
  • Are they asking for banking information?
  • Are they asking for personal information like your Medicare or Social Security number?
  • Do they say the offer is only good today? A real company will give you time to think and verify.
  • Do they know something about you but ask to verify that the information is correct?

If any of these are happening, HANG UP!

What if I accidentally gave out my Medicare number to someone other than a provider?

• Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol for help. To find yours, call 1 877 808-2468 or visit https://www.smpresource.org/Default.aspx and Click on “Find Help in your State”
• Alert your health care providers so they can be aware of suspicious activity. 
• If you notice suspicious activity on your Medicare or health plan statements, contact them and let them know.

What if I lost my Medicare card?

• Call 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227)

I was billed for a medical service I didn’t receive. What should I do?

• Contact the health care provider or the company that issued the bill.
• Contact your state’s Senior Medicare Patrol. Call 1 877 808-2468 or visit

What if I suspect Medicare fraud?

Address it immediately by taking these steps: 

• Rule out error:

If you have questions about information on yours or your loved one’s Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), call the provider or plan and ask for an explanation.

• Get help from your SMP:

If you are not comfortable calling the provider or plan or if you are not satisfied with their response, your local SMP can help you:

• • Identify and report fraud schemes and deceptive health care practices, such as illegal marketing or billing for services that were never provided.    
  • Refer complaints of potential fraud and abuse to the appropriate entity, who can intervene
• Get help from other sources:
  • Contact local law enforcement.
  • Call 1-800-Medicare.
  • Report directly to the OIG Hotline: 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

Who can I contact if I have Medicare questions that do not involve Medicare fraud, abuse, or error?

• Contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program:  SHIP Locator or 1-877-839-2675