There is no legitimate, current association with the phone number 1-800-599-5526. It is a number commonly linked to scam attempts, particularly those related to “Medicare flex cards.”
How Legitimate “Flex Cards” Work:
A flex card is a benefit offered only by some private Medicare Advantage plans, not by Original Medicare. You would receive one as part of your plan, and a legitimate representative from your insurance company would never ask for payment or sensitive information over the phone to send you a card.
While legitimate Medicare Advantage plans may offer prepaid cards with limited benefits, most “Flex Card” ads you see online, on TV, or through robocalls are scams or misleading.
If you receive a call from this number, it is a scam attempt. You should hang up immediately and block the number.
If you are concerned about your Medicare plan or benefits, the only safe way to get information is to contact Medicare directly by calling the official number: 1-800-MEDICARE.
Also Read : How To Report Food Stamp Fraud
🚨 How the Medicare Flex Card Scam Works
Fake Ads or Calls Offer “Free $2,880 Medicare Flex Cards”
You may see ads saying things like:
“Get a $2,880 Flex Card for seniors. Act now!”
Or you may receive a robocall stating you’re eligible for extra Medicare funds.
They Ask for Your Medicare ID or Social Security Number
Scammers often pretend to be Medicare reps and ask for personal details under the guise of “enrolling” you or “checking eligibility.”
They Switch Your Medicare Plan Without Consent
In many cases, scammers actually use your information to enroll you in a new Medicare Advantage plan—without you knowing it. This can disrupt your current coverage.
You Never Get the Card or Benefits Promised
After giving up your info, nothing arrives. Or, if it does, it’s a very limited benefit you didn’t knowingly sign up for.
âś… What’s Real vs. Fake
| Claim | Real? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| “$2,880 Flex Card for Seniors” | ❌ Scam/Misleading | No official Medicare program offers this universally. |
| “Offered by Medicare” | ❌ False | Medicare does not issue flex cards. |
| “Flex Cards available through Advantage Plans” | âś… Sometimes Legit | Some private Medicare Advantage plans may offer a prepaid debit card — but with strict limits. |
| “Can be used for groceries, gas, and more” | đźš« Rare | Legitimate cards are usually limited to healthcare-related expenses only. |
🛑 Red Flags of the Scam
The caller claims to be “from Medicare” (Medicare will never call you unless you request it).
They promise large sums of free money.
They push you to act immediately or press a button during a robocall.
They ask for:
Medicare number
Social Security number
Bank account details
Also Read : AT&T Data Incident Settlement
✅ What to Do if You’re Targeted
Hang Up — If you receive a call or robocall about flex cards, hang up immediately.
Do NOT Share Any Info — Never give out your Medicare number or SSN over the phone to unsolicited callers.
Report the Scam:
📞 Medicare: 1‑800‑MEDICARE (1‑800‑633‑4227)
🛡️ FTC Fraud Report: reportfraud.ftc.gov
📨 Social Security Fraud Hotline: 1‑800‑269‑0271
âś… How to Get Legit Medicare Benefits
Contact Medicare.gov directly or call 1‑800‑MEDICARE to find out what benefits you qualify for.
Work with a licensed Medicare agent — someone you initiate contact with.
If you’re exploring Medicare Advantage plans that do offer flex cards:
Ask specifically what it covers (e.g., dental, vision, OTC drugs).
Request a copy of the benefits in writing.
Be wary of anyone who refuses to explain the limitations.
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