PIERRE, S.D.- Attorney General Marty Jackley is warning South Dakota seniors to be cautious of possible scams relating to the Medicare Prescription Drug Rebate program that is scheduled to begin this week. Many South Dakota seniors who fall into the Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage gap, known as the “doughnut hole” will begin receiving rebate checks for $250 to help with drug costs.  The rebate check is part of the new health care law, which will help make prescription drugs more affordable for people in Medicare Part D.

The checks will be automatically sent to those who have paid more than $940 in out-of-pocket drug costs. Seniors should be cautious of scam artists who promise to deliver a check sooner if a fee is paid up front. They may also try to obtain personal financial information. There is no up-front fee for this rebate program. It is an automatic check that is sent directly from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to those who meet the requirements.

“This rebate program is a great opportunity for seniors to receive relief for prescription drugs costs”, said Jackley. “Seniors need to be cautious of any telemarketing calls, unsolicited emails or direct mail pieces that try to entice them into paying for this rebate.”

If you have been a victim of this scam or need any additional information please call the Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-800-822-8804 or 1-800-695-8168.