07/07/2026
⚠️ If it sounds too good to be true, trust your instincts and verify the information before you act.
I’ve had multiple clients recently come to me after being given misleading information about Medicare benefits or being encouraged to change plans based on benefits that were not available to them.
Yesterday, a client reached out after seeing an advertisement claiming he could qualify for a $900 monthly grocery benefit.
As a licensed insurance broker, I can research plan benefits available in his service area. I called the number myself, gave the agent my client’s ZIP code, and asked whether there was a plan offering a $900 monthly grocery benefit.
Based on the plan information I had reviewed for his service area, I had not found a plan offering that benefit as advertised.
The agent told me there was and said they needed my Medicare number to see if I qualified.
That should concern everyone.
Medicare Advantage plans can offer additional benefits, but benefit availability, amounts, and eligibility requirements vary by plan and service area. Some benefits are only available to members who meet specific eligibility requirements.
My recommendation:
Do not give your Medicare number to someone who contacted you unexpectedly or is making benefit claims you haven’t verified.
Before changing your Medicare coverage:
• Verify the benefit actually exists and that you qualify for it.
• Make sure your doctors and hospitals participate in the plan’s network, when applicable.
• Check that your prescriptions are covered and understand your potential costs.
• Review the plan’s costs, coverage rules, and other benefits.
• Talk with Medicare, your current plan, or a licensed insurance agent or broker you know and trust.
Changing Medicare plans can affect your access to providers, prescription coverage, costs, and other benefits. Depending on your circumstances and available enrollment periods, you may not be able to immediately change plans again.
Protect your Medicare number. Ask questions. Verify the information before you make a change.
A benefit that sounds great isn’t helpful if the plan doesn’t fit your healthcare needs.
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