Unfortunately, fraudulent calls about incredible benefits are on the rise. Here’s what to watch for:

• Medicare will never call you and ask for your Medicare number. Do not give it out.

• Unsolicited calls during AEP are illegal unless you’ve given written permission. If you tell them this, they will stop calling.

• Legitimate Medicare calls must be recorded. If they don’t inform you of a recording, it’s not in your best interest — hang up.

• A Scope of Appointment (SOA) is required before reviewing or changing plans. If a caller doesn’t request one, they do not have your best needs in mind!.

Last year, several clients were tricked into plan switches without realizing it. One even had a surgery delayed because their coverage was changed unexpectedly. Please stay alert and reach out to me anytime you’re uncertain.