The Medicaid 'Unwinding' Scam: A New Threat to Beneficiaries

As states resume normal Medicaid eligibility procedures after the COVID-19 public health emergency, scammers are taking advantage of the “unwinding” process to target vulnerable beneficiaries.

How the Scam Works

Scammers are exploiting the Medicaid redetermination process by:

1. Contacting beneficiaries claiming to be from Medicaid
2. Demanding payment to maintain coverage
3. Requesting personal information for “verification”
4. Threatening immediate loss of benefits

Warning Signs

1. Unsolicited Contact

   • Calls claiming to be from Medicaid
   • Demands for immediate payment
   • Pressure to provide personal information

2. Suspicious Requests

   • Requests for payment to maintain coverage
   • Demands for Social Security numbers
   • Threats of immediate benefit termination

How to Protect Yourself

1. Understand the Process

   • Medicaid will never ask for payment to maintain coverage
   • Official communications come through mail
   • You have time to respond to eligibility requests

2. Verify Communications

   • Contact your state’s Medicaid office directly
   • Use official phone numbers from your Medicaid card
   • Never respond to unsolicited calls or emails

3. Protect Your Information

   • Never share personal information over the phone
   • Keep your Medicaid card secure
   • Report suspicious calls immediately

What to Do If You’re a Victim

If you’ve been targeted by this scam:

1. Contact your state’s Medicaid office
2. Report the fraud to the Office of Inspector General
3. Monitor your Medicaid account for unauthorized changes
4. Keep records of all suspicious communications

Prevention Tips

• Never pay to maintain Medicaid coverage
• Be skeptical of unsolicited calls about your benefits
• Keep your Medicaid information private
• Regularly check your Medicaid status

Remember: Medicaid will never call you to demand payment or threaten immediate termination of benefits.

Have questions about Medicaid eligibility or suspect you’ve been targeted by this scam? Let’s talk. I’m here to help you navigate the Medicaid redetermination process safely.