Since the announcement of the Affordable Care Act, state and federal authorities have reported a rise in the number of complaints about scams. Many of these scams are linked to the Affordable Care Act. A majority of the consumer complaints include deceptive sales practices and identity theft. A majority of these scams are targeting the elderly, but scam artists do not discriminate, everyone is a target in their eyes.
Scam artists prey on a person’s lack of clarity and knowledge about the new laws.
Indicators that you may being scammed include:
- They offer to help you for a fee.
- They insist you have to buy supplemental coverage.
- They sell you an “Obamacare Card,” saying you have to have it.
- They say they are from the government and need your personal information and credit card number over the phone.
- Use unofficial websites. Only sign up for affordable health insurance at www.coveredca.com for Exchange plans or through your carrier websites off the Exchanges.
- Offer discount plans.
Be careful to avoid scams. If you feel you have been targeted by a scam contact the Federal Trade Commission Immediately or visit the website at www.ftc.gov/complaint.
For more information about your health insurance needs contact Randy Jones Insurance.