Julie Hilbert...

SENIOR MOMENT UPDATE

Consumer mails from CMS, Social Security and Plans –
Mid-May – Social Security will be sending out notices to inform people who may be eligible for extra help and benefits regarding their Medicare and Part D drug plans.

Mid-May – CMS sends out LIS Chooser Reminder Notices. Reminds people who get extra help there are other $0 premium plans available if their current plan has a premium for 2012.

Early Sept. – Social Security send out notices to review eligibility for extra help. This notice has to be completed and sent back in w/in 30 days or it may end.

September – Plans will send out plans Annual Notice of Change and evidence of coverage. People need to review these changes for 2012 if don’t like need to change.

September – Employers/Union plans will send out Notice of Creditable Coverage saying the plan they have is comparable to Part D of Medicare.

Late September – CMS sends out the “Medicare and You 2012” handbook

Early October – Plans begin sending marketing materials for 2012.

New Open Enrollment Period – October 15, 2011 through December 7, 2011 is the one time people can switch Medicare Part D drug plans for the year. After January 1, 2012 your current plan will continue if no changes are made.

Lower Generic Drug costs in donuthole for 2012 – Effective January 1, 2012 seniors will continue to receive 50% discount on brand name and 14% off generics (2011 was a 7% discount).

Save our SeniorCare Petition – Dept. of Senior Services are circulating petitions for folks to sign to let their voices be heard they want to keep Wisconsin SeniorCare as is.

Julie Hilbert Visits...

SENIOR MOMENT UPDATE

SCAMS – In the wake of Japan’s Massive Earthquake, FTC warns consumes about potential charity scams. The nation’s consumer protection agency warns consumers to carefully consider urgent appeals for aid they receive in person, by phone, mail, e-mail website or on social networking sites. If you are asked to contribute to a charity the FTC recommends that you
• Ask name of charity if callers doesn’t provide it promptly
• Ask what percentage of your donation will support the cause
• Verify the charity has authorized the solicitation
• Do not provide any credit card or bank information until you have reviewed all information from the charity and made the decision to donate
• Ask for a receipt showing amount of contribution and stating it is tax deductible.
• Avoid cash gifts, it’s best to pay by check payable to beneficiary not solicitor.

SENIORCARE SCAM – It has recently come to our attention that a telemarketing scam is taking place throughout the state. The phone number that shows up on caller ID is (918) 442-0735. The caller says he is from SeniorCare and will be sending diabetic supplies to the call recipient after getting the person’s Medicare number and doctor’s name. Your Medicare number is usually your social security number with an A or B after it. So, now they have your information for identity theft. The “real” SeniorCare does not market products and generally does not call individuals unless it needs clarification on someone’s application. If you receive a call please inform your local benefit specialist Julie in FDL at 929-3521. NEVER give out personal information over the phone unless YOU initiate the call.

Preventative Actions to stop Identity Theft
• Get on Wisconsin No Call List – 1-866-966-2255
• Stop Junk mail – By sending postcard or letter to:
• Mail Preference Service
• Direct Marketing Association
• P.O. Box 643
• Carmel, NY 15012-0643
• Get your Free Credit Report
• NEVER GIVE OUT PERSONAL INFORMATION OVER THE PHONE
• Never let anyone in your house without verifying they are from where they say come from or represent. Ask for identification

Greatest Wedding Pic Ever!

Here is a link to the greatest wedding picture ever. I talked about it today with Mr Movie.