Identity Theft

Identity Theft is very real and seniors are particularly vulnerable. When your turning 65 your on a list and entities are out there with one mission, sign you up for a plan and get paid. While these are probably legitimate it's easy to lose track of who's who and who is legit or not. Here are some examples of what you will be asked for in an email or phone call-
Your Full Name- Not needed to look up plan availability.
Your Email- Still not needed to look up plan availability.
Your Zip- Needed, Medicare Advantage Plans are area specific.
Your Medicare Claim Number- Not needed to look up plan availability.
Your Home Address- Not needed, Zip code is sufficient.
Social Security Number- A big No No, and definitely not necessary to determine plan availability.
Date of Birth- Nope, don't need to know that either. 

Anybody that's asking for this stuff is either Phishing or generating leads that can be sold to Brokers. Oh, and by the way. If a plan looks like it is too good to be true, it probably is. Don't fall for Triple Zeros $0 premium, $0 Copays and $0 Medication costs. There is fine print that nobody can read and it's designed for one purpose. To get you to call and give your information.

Final Word of Advise- Set up a "My Social Security" account in the Social Security website, SSA.gov. If you set it up no one else can set it up in your name and collet your benefits.