You heard that correctly: Scammers are committing hospice fraud

Did someone reach out and offer free, in-home perks like cooking and cleaning in exchange for your Medicare number? Don’t give it. That could be a scammer trying to commit hospice fraud.

Scammers are targeting older adults — with calls, texts, emails, fake ads, and even door-to-door visits — claiming they’ll set you up with services like free cooking, cleaning, and home health care. What they likely won’t tell you is how: They want to commit fraud by signing you up for Medicare hospice — that’s right, hospice — care. Then, they can bill Medicare for all kinds of services in your name.

Here’s what to know: Hospice care is a specialized service, often done at home, for people with a terminal illness approaching the end of life. Only your doctor can certify that you’re eligible for hospice (meaning your life expectancy is 6 months or less). If you‘re signed up for hospice and don’t need it, this could affect your Medicare coverage in the future. Anyone who tells you differently is a scammer.

Here are some ways to avoid hospice scams:

• Never give your Medicare number to someone offering “free” services like housekeeping or cooking. Medicare doesn’t offer free services like that.
• Never agree to sign up for hospice care in exchange for perks or gifts like money, gift cards, or groceries.
• Know that Medicare will never come to your home to sign you up for services. If someone comes to your door, says they’re from Medicare, and tries to get you to sign up for services, they’re lying. Don’t give them any information.

If you think you’ve spotted or experienced hospice fraud, report it as soon as possible. Call 1-800-MEDICARE or reach out to your local Senior Medicare Patrol for help.

Learn more at Medicare.gov/fraud.

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