Family & support
An unexpected Medicare call? Give yourself permission to pause
You do not have to share personal information or make a coverage decision because someone puts you on the spot.
Protect your Medicare number, verify unexpected contacts independently, and check statements for services you did not receive. Report suspected Medicare fraud to 1 800 MEDICARE.
Recognize pressure
Be cautious about threats to cancel benefits, unexpected requests for your Medicare number, or offers tied to services you did not request. Medicare does not call to sell plans. Limited legitimate callback situations exist, so verify independently.
Use a number you trust
End an uncertain call and use the number on your plan card or official Medicare website. Do not rely on a callback number supplied by the suspicious caller. A trusted person can sit with you while you verify.
Check your records
Compare statements with your calendar and receipts. Ask the provider about unfamiliar charges. If you suspect fraud or misuse of your Medicare number, contact 1 800 MEDICARE and follow its reporting guidance.
Keep a response ready
Try: “I do not share personal information on unexpected calls. I will contact the organization directly.” You do not need to argue. Note the claimed organization and date if you report it.
Make it useful
Your next step checklist
Use this here, or print it for your next conversation. Your checks stay on this page only.