Watch Out for Scams

As Medicaid rules and renewal requirements change, scammers may try to use the confusion to steal your money or personal information. Here are some tips to spot scammers:

  1. Medicaid will not charge you to apply or renew. Never pay someone to complete your Medicaid application or renewal.
  2. Be careful if someone asks for money. Do not send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency or other payments to keep your Medicaid coverage.
  3. Protect your personal information. Do not give your Social Security number, bank account number, credit card number, or other sensitive information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
  4. Don’t trust caller ID alone. Scammers can make a phone number appear to come from a government agency or health plan.
  5. Watch out for pressure or threats. Be suspicious if someone says you must act today, pay a fee or provide information right away or you will lose your coverage.
  6. When in doubt, stop and check. If you receive a call, text or email about your Medicaid coverage, contact your health plan or Illinois Medicaid using a phone number or website you know is official. Don’t use the contact information provided in a suspicious message.
  7. You can get help with your renewal. If you need assistance, use an official Medicaid agency, your health plan or a trusted community organization—not someone who unexpectedly contacts you offering to “fix” your coverage.

A simple rule to remember:

Stop. Don’t pay. Don’t share personal information. Check first.

Report suspected fraud to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services at 1-844-ILFRAUD (1-844-453-7283).

Call your Medicaid health plan with questions about your coverage.