March 12, 2018
Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones from Fraud with Your Veterans’ and Medicare Benefits
The first week of March 2018 was National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the nation’s consumer protection agency. For NCPW, the FTC provides consumers with information about protecting themselves from fraud and scams. You can find information and resources on the FTC website.
Because the FTC focuses on consumer fraud the first week in March, we thought we would also focus a blog on preventing fraud and scams regarding Veterans’ benefits and Medicare benefits. We encourage you to read the following information and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from consumer fraud.
Preventing Fraud for Veterans’ Benefits
Unfortunately, many veterans and their families are the targets of scams and fraud. For example, companies and individuals advertise their services to “help” veterans and their families apply for benefits. However, you can apply for benefits yourself free of charge or use a VA-accredited professional to help you apply for benefits free of charge.
The VA accredits individuals or organizations that have received special training on how to complete VA paperwork accurately. Accredited representatives do not charge for their services. Private attorneys, VA-recognized Veterans Service Organizations, and independent claims agents can be accredited by the VA to assist veterans in filing applications for benefits.
Another area of fraud pertains to Aid and Attendance Benefits (A&A). Not all veterans qualify for A&A benefits. A&A qualifications are very strict and specific. If an “advisor” or other individual tells you that he can guarantee he can help you get Veterans’ benefits, you should be cautious because no one can “guarantee” the payment of benefits. Someone who claims that you can obtain A&A benefits by transferring assets might actually cause you to face penalties and lose other benefits like Medicaid.
Always ask to verify a person’s or organization’s license or certification. Using the term “veteran” or “military” in a name does not guarantee you are receiving advice from a legitimate source. If in doubt, you can call 800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838) or visit the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency online.
Preventing Fraud for Medicare Benefits
Medicare fraud can take many forms; however, fraudulent billing, identify theft and fraudulent marketing activities are three of the most common types of Medicare fraud.
One of the best ways to fight Medicare fraud is to maintain copies of your records for medical care. If you notice strange charges or errors, report these errors to Medicare immediately. Safeguard your personal information, including your Medicare information. You should not give this information to unauthorized individuals. Medical providers nor the government will ever ask you for your personal information by telephone or email. If you receive emails or telephone calls requesting personal information for verification purposes or any other reason, do not provide this information. You should contact the provider or the Medicare office immediately.
Enrollment scams are another frequent problem for Medicare recipients. Medicare has strict rules about when and how companies can contact you to market Part D prescription plans and Advantage Plans. Unless you are already enrolled in a plan, that company cannot contact you other than by mail without your consent, including during open enrollment periods. Be very cautious if you are approached by anyone claiming to help you enroll in a Medicare plan who contacts you other than by mail. Also, be cautious of anyone who claims you will lose your benefits if you do not act now.
Contact Medicare with questions or to report suspicious activity. Call -800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit the Office of the Inspector General online to report Medicare fraud.
The Elder Care Firm of Christopher J. Berry, CELA
It can be confusing to try to coordinate various government benefits with estate planning. However, an experienced Michigan estate planning attorney can help you develop a strategy that gives you the best chance of obtaining government benefits while retaining your assets.
For more information about Medicaid planning or estate planning, call our office at 888-390-4360 or use the contact form on our website. Our attorneys assist clients in Brighton and throughout the surrounding areas, including -Bloomfield Hills, Novi, and Livonia.