Published October 8, 2026
Scams Targeting Seniors Over the $90 Payment: What to Watch For
Scammers are calling seniors about the $90 payment. Learn the four most common scams — and the one golden rule that stops them all.
Whenever the government sends money to seniors, scammers follow. The $90 Medicare rebate is no exception. Criminals are already calling and texting older Americans about this payment. Here is how to protect yourself.
The Golden Rule
The Social Security Administration will never call, text, or email you demanding gift cards, wire transfers, or your bank password. SSA will never threaten you with arrest. If someone does any of these things, hang up. It is a scam — every time.
Scam #1: "You Must Claim Your $90"
The caller says your $90 payment is "waiting" but you must claim it before a deadline. They ask for your Social Security number, bank details, or a "small fee" to release it. The truth: there is nothing to claim. If you qualify, the payment comes automatically. There is no deadline and no fee.
Scam #2: "Verify Your Identity"
A text or email says SSA needs to "verify your identity" to send your payment, with a link to click. The link goes to a fake website that steals your login and bank details. The truth: SSA does not send payment links by text or email. To check your payment, type ssa.gov into your browser yourself or call 1-800-772-1213.
Scam #3: "Pay a Fee to Get a Bigger Amount"
Someone tells you that you are owed more than $90 — maybe hundreds — but you must pay a "processing fee" first. The truth: the rebate is a flat $90 for everyone who qualifies. There is no bigger amount and no fee.
Scam #4: Fake SSA Caller ID
Your phone shows "Social Security Administration" and the caller knows your name. They threaten to stop your benefits or have you arrested unless you pay. The truth: caller ID can be faked in seconds. SSA does not threaten people. Hang up and call 1-800-772-1213 yourself.
What to Do If a Scammer Contacts You
- Hang up. Do not argue, do not press buttons, do not call back.
- Do not click links in texts or emails about the payment.
- Do not give your Social Security number, bank details, or Medicare number to an unexpected caller.
- Call SSA yourself at 1-800-772-1213 if you are worried.
- Tell a family member or friend what happened — scammers count on silence.
How to Check the Real Thing
The real payment is a one-time $90 from the Medicare Improvement Fund, labeled along the lines of "Medicare Improvement Fund Payment; $90 Payment to Offset October Premium." Confirm it only through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov or by calling SSA. Our step-by-step guide is how to confirm the payment is real.
Remember
You do not need to do anything to receive this payment if you qualify. Anyone who says otherwise is lying to you. When in doubt, hang up and call the real SSA.