A Free Public Service

SCAMS BULLETIN Host Jay White is an inactive attorney in San Mateo County, California.

March 20, 2024

MONEY REFUNDS from FTC

Attribution: Federal Trade Commission   

Did you pay Benefytt, which also did business as “MyBenefitsKeeper,” for a health plan or product that didn’t deliver the comprehensive insurance coverage the company promised?

You might be receiving some of your money back.

The FTC will return nearly $100 million dollars to Benefytt victims who paid for health plans the FTC says were falsely marketed as comprehensive health insurance or an “Obamacare” plan under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Here’s what to know about refunds:

Victims who paid Benefytt $1,000 or more between 2017 and 2022 may get some money back. If so, checks will be mailed automatically and should arrive within the next two weeks.

If you receive a check, you should cash or deposit it as soon as possible. Refund checks expire after 90 days.

For more information or questions, call the refund administrator, Epiq Systems, at 888-574-3126.

The FTC never requires you to pay money or give account information to cash a refund check. Anyone who contacts you and says they’ll help you file for a refund or get your money back — if you pay them first — is a scammer.

Before you sign up for health coverage or products:

Compare plans, coverage, and prices at a trusted source. HealthCare.gov and state marketplaces are the first stop for information about comprehensive, ACA-compliant health insurance coverage.

Find out more about the seller. Ask for the name of the agent and the agency that’s offering you a plan. Search online for the names plus “complaint,” “scam,” or “fraud.” Read what others are saying.

Check with your state insurance commissioner’s office to see if they have a license and find out if there are complaints. If they don’t have a license, what they’re selling is not insurance.

Resist pressure to make a decision on the spot. Legitimate health plans won’t pressure you to make a decision on the spot, and they’ll always give you a chance to compare their plan with other options.

Report scam or fraud attempts to FTC.gov.

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