Applicants for health insurance coverage through the marketplace should be aware of scammers during this open enrollment period. Indiana Department of Insurance Commissioner Stephen W. Robertson says no one at Healthcare.gov needs credit card information in order to help you apply for insurance. This has happened to people who have called the toll-free number to sign up for coverage or ask questions about the plans offered in accordance with the Affordable Care Act. Robertson says scammers set up telephone numbers that are very similar to the Healthcare.gov number in hopes that someone will misdial.
Another variation of the scam offers you a $100 rebate voucher for a discount shopping program or a $100 Walmart gift card if you pay a nominal processing fee with a credit card. This is a scam designed to get your credit card information. No rebate vouchers or gift cards are offered in exchange for signing up for health insurance.
If you are applying for coverage on the Federal Marketplace, make sure you call 1-800-318-2596. If you prefer to apply online, visit www.healthcare.gov.
If you’ve been a victim of a scam, contact the Indiana Department of Insurance at 317-232-2385 or the Indiana Attorney General’s office at 317-232-6330.
