Donut Hole Checks: Beware of Scams

CMS (The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) said checks will be mailed monthly, starting as early as this summer, and will continue throughout the year as Medicare beneficiaries hit the donut hole. Those who qualify can expect to receive their check within 45 days of reaching the gap.

Seniors beware of scams involving confidential information: Seniors who qualify for the $250 check will not have to give their social security number or bank account information. CMS does not need the Seniors to fill out any forms. The process is automatic: if the senior reaches the donut hole, a check will automatically be sent out in the mail.

The $250 check in the mail is the first tangible benefit the seniors will see from the March 2010 health care reform.

“One of the biggest ways the new law is going to help seniors is by gradually phasing out the Medicare prescription drug doughnut hole, which has made it hard for seniors to afford their medications,” Sebelius said.