I got a call from a "Medicare agent" promising me free groceries and I almost fell for it. Why is this kind of marketing allowed?

Question

Gregg Matheny · Accepted Answer

It’s unfortunate but there are a few loopholes in Medicare marketing guidelines that allow agents to discuss benefits associated with “DSNP’s” (Dual Special needs plans) on cold calls. These types of plans require that you have both Medicare and Medicaid, if you have both of these then there may be a DSNP plan available in your area that includes a”healthy food and produce” benefit that gives you a monthly allowance towards OTC items and groceries. Unfortunately I think a commonly used tactic is the “bait and switch”. Agents/brokers have to be a little more transparent if you were to physically meet them and go over your plan options. Be a good practice To ask these individuals “how are these benefits available to me” or simply just hang up. This sure isn’t a way to conduct good business but some brokers do engage in this.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on April 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, someone got a call from a Medicare agent promising free groceries, and they almost fell for it. Why is this kind of marketing allowed? Well, to be honest, it's not allowed. But the problem is there are so many of these call centers around the country that they can get away with stuff like that. They'll call you; you're not supposed to call anybody unless they give you permission. But these call centers, a lot of them are out of the country. They're calling people, and they're preying on people, promising the world and then not coming through. They're just trying to enroll them. This industry is very, very heavily regulated. But a lot of times, if they're out of the country or there's some mysterious call center in the Midwest or something, it's hard to regulate these people. But the legit agents are the ones taking the brunt of it. That's why there are so many rules. I would find someone local who knows the local market, and they can explain the grocery benefit. It's a great benefit, but you have to have certain medical conditions in order to qualify for it.

Mike Alexander · Answer

I agree it should not be allowed. They use this to get your personnal Info.
Never speak with any of these telemarketing sales people, ask a local agent or call medicare 800 medicare
To find out if you qualify

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Unfortunately the big call centers, FMOs and lead aggregators can use this statement because there are a few people that can get some assistance with groceries. So, technically the programs may be available in your area so they can say it and then find out later that you don't qualify. The number of people that do qualify is small, so they know the chance of each person they call receiving the benefit is small. It's just the way they get you to talk with them and then they find some other benefit that they entice you with. Their goal is to make you switch plans.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on September 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

There are some Medicare advantage that offer that.  Many times it’s tied to being on Medicaid but not all plans.

Larry Dalton · Answer

Medicare is trying to stop these unwanted calls.  However, they still contact you even if your name is on the Do Not Call List.  Most of these calls are made illegal and transferred to a contracted agent.   Upon answering the phone, I was told this was what I had been told.  I am 65 and have blocked over 600 numbers on my phone.

The information on the free grocery card is partially correct.  It depends on your qualifications, location, plan type, or whether you are on Medicaid.  These plans are available through some Medicare Advantage plans.

Terri Reagin · Answer

Its really not. There is all kinds of strict rules and regulations that telemarketers must follow in order to be compliant. The short answer is not every person that tries to contact you is compliant. Here are a few of the rules that ethical agents follow:

1. unsolicited contact is not permitted without express written consent- thats why its important you do not respond to text or emails that you do not personally know the sender.

2. they are not permitted to door knock, or approach you in common areas such as doctors offices, without express prior written consent.

3. they are not allowed to talk about the benefits of a medicare advantage plan (AKA grocery benefits) without a signed scope of appointment.

4. they are not allowed to target specific demographics like low income, or minorities

If you see this happening, you can always call 1-800 MEDICARE to report the behavior. I hope this helps.

Pamela Masters · Answer

There are some plans that have that. It’s only for people who have Medicare and Medicaid. There are some regular Medicare advantage plans that have that but not very many. 
It might be best to speak with your agent because if they are contracted with plans in your area they would be able to give you all of that information.

Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF · Answer

No, it is not. Although there maybe plans available in your area that has ancillary benefits like this, no agents are permitted to call you without having your express consent to do so before the call. I would report the number to the Department of Insurance in your state and the FTC for calling you when not allowed.

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on July 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, GA, IN, KY & TN

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF Medicare Insurance Agent

Lynn C Shurtleff · Answer

It's not allowed. Cold calling for Medicare Advantage plans and Part D plans is 100% illegal but unless you can obtain the actual name of the agent and a working phone number it is impossible to catch them. Many calls originate outside the country as well. I recommend contacting your Congress members and tell them to change the law back and make it illegal for agents to sell over the phone. The laws keep getting amended but these scammers find ways to get around them and create loopholes.

Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff on August 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AR, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff Medicare Insurance Agent

Jonathan Potter · Answer

Some plans include money for food. These plans do have a requirement that you have some sort of health condition that would qualify you for it. It is a real benefit but be careful that they inform you and you are SWITCHING TO A DIFFERENT PLAN! Make sure they confirm your doctors and medications are covered.

Answered by Jonathan Potter on February 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in UT, AZ, CA & 14 other states

Answered by Jonathan Potter Medicare Insurance Agent

Christy Jones · Answer

Unfortunately, there are many agents that will tell people they can get free groceries when they don’t actually qualify for that benefit. It is helpful to let people know that there is a benefit like that available but they don’t tell you that you must qualify for that particular plan. Most of the time plans with a with a grocery benefit are for people that have low income and qualify for Medicaid.

Answered by Christy Jones on June 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Christy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

William Gray · Answer

You should not be receiving unsolicited calls from an insurance agent it is not allowed regarding Medicare Advantage plans. 

The benefit that is being discussed is available under certain plans but should not in my opinion be the main reason to choose a plan.

I think the primary concern is that there are people who willfully violate marketing rules and this is one of them if not solicited by you.

Richard Moreno · Answer

There are plans that do offer cards to use for food, over the counter medicine etc. Not everyone qualifies and it shouldn’t be a promise. You can complain to CMS- center for Medicare/Medicaid Services

Answered by Richard Moreno on June 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, CA, FL, LA, NM & OH

Answered by Richard Moreno Medicare Insurance Agent

Cody Biggs · Answer

The short answer is: it’s allowed because of loopholes, gray areas, and poor enforcement — not because it’s ethical. Some marketers technically follow the letter of the law while completely violating the spirit of it. They’ll advertise “free groceries,” “food cards,” or “Medicare benefits you’re missing,” then bury the fine print that says you have to qualify for a very specific plan in a very specific area. The goal isn’t education — it’s to get you on the phone so they can flip you into a plan.

What really bothers me is that they often blur the line between Medicare and private insurance, use scare tactics, or imply they’re connected to Medicare itself — which they are not. And once your number is in one system, it gets sold and resold, which is why the calls never stop.

This is exactly why I tell people: Medicare doesn’t call you, and legitimate agents don’t lead with giveaways. If groceries, cash cards, or “extra benefits” are the hook, that’s a red flag. Real Medicare planning starts with your doctors, your prescriptions, and your costs — not gimmicks.

If anyone ever wants a second opinion, I’m always happy to take a look and tell them straight up whether something is real, exaggerated, or just marketing fluff. No pressure, no scare tactics, and no free-grocery bait.

Darlene Murphy · Answer

It is not and should be turned over to CMS for review. Most plans Do Not cover groceries, therefore; it is marketing/selling points for phone solicitors.

Lilyana Uzdenova-Gomez · Answer

There is prohibition on unsolicited phone calls from Medicare Advantage and part D plan agents. If the phone call was unsolicited and you not only did not ask for a phone call from that agent, but did not consent to that call the call is reportable to the overseeing agency, CMS. 
   Even though Medicare Advantage plans sometimes offer perks or benefits outside of the scope of Medicare coverage, it is certainly misleading to claim that those benefits are “free” or are offered by Medicare itself. It is important to understand that switching your coverage just to get a specific perk is never a good idea without understanding the full spectrum of consequences.

Adam Ashby · Answer

It should not be allowed. It is imperative that individuals are vigilant and have a relationship with a Broker that they trust. That means that Broker also has to proactively provide you with updates and a way of staying in touch. If you have not established a live person that you trust to work with - that is the next assignment. 2nd assignment is to not answer the phone. If you do get a call, you can ask them where they received their Scope of Appointment that gives them a legal right to contact you.

Answered by Adam Ashby on April 20, 2026

Broker Licensed in CO, GA, IL & 6 other states

Answered by Adam Ashby Medicare Insurance Agent

Amy Putrino · Answer

It's not allowed. This type of tele-marketing is the sign of a call-center or unscrupulous brokers. They will promise you benefits like: dental, vision, over-the-counter allowance, fitness, hearing, cash back in your Social Security benefits, etc. Telephone solicitation/marketing by phone is NOT allowed for Medicare Advantage plans by Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, without your consent/request. My advice would be, if someone's first impression is to use an illegal marketing tactic, they may not be the person you want to be trusting with your personal infomation.

Answered by Amy Putrino on July 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in RI, AZ, CT & 12 other states

Answered by Amy Putrino Medicare Insurance Agent

Dino Pappadis · Answer

It is not allowed to  receive unsolicited calls from agents unless you provide a permission to contact.   That is why it is important to work with a local compliant Agent

Mary Green · Answer

That agent was breaking CMS rules by calling you without your permission and talking about a Part C benefit that could potentially be available to you if you qualify. If anyone calls you without your permission and talks about benefits available with a Part C plan, you should find out who they are, what company they are with, and report them to Medicare.

Answered by Mary Green on November 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in AL, CO, FL, GA, TN & VA

Answered by Mary Green Medicare Insurance Agent

Jamie Goble · Answer

I get thei a lot. It actually is not. The only way they can contact you is if you fill out a lead card. Or you have contacted them in any way. Cold calling they ar not supposed to be doing. You can get here a name and report them to Medicare.

Answered by Jamie Goble on December 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, AR, FL, MD & MO

Answered by Jamie Goble Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Sannes · Answer

This is generally a fraudulent scam where the caller is trying to get your personal information. Medicare agents can not call people without their permission. There are some Dual Special Needs Medicare Advantage plans that offer funds for healthy groceries, but you have to qualify for those by income and assets. People should not talk with cold callers who use this bait and switch tactic.

Answered by Mark Sannes on March 5, 2026

Broker Licensed in WA, AK, AZ & 11 other states

Answered by Mark Sannes Medicare Insurance Agent

Diane Andree · Answer

This kind of marketing is not allowed. No one is supposed to be soliciting you regarding Medicare or enrolling in a Plan or any special offers that you might not even qualify for. Please do not give out any personal information to anyone over the phone that you don't know.

Answered by Diane Andree on March 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY

Answered by Diane Andree Medicare Insurance Agent

Jay Carlton · Answer

This is not allowed and against CMS (Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services) rules, you can report the agent and the company for this act. With that said, there are plans that have built in amounts for groceries and over the counter items. Check with your local agent.

Answered by Jay Carlton on April 7, 2025

Agent Licensed in UT

Answered by Jay Carlton Medicare Insurance Agent

Martin Meyer · Answer

Good job not falling for this! Those plans do exist, however in most areas they are only available to people on Medicaid or folks that have a specific chronic illness. If you are not on Medicaid, those plans also have extremely high copays and out of pocket limits, which the people calling you usually fail to tell you about, conveniently.. Of course a food card would be nice, especially with the cost of groceries these days, but you are usually giving a lot up to get that benefit. One big rule of thumb that I train all of my clients on is this: If ANYONE is calling you unsolicited about Medicare, that should be a major red flag from the get go. As agents, we’re are not allowed to randomly cold call seniors pushing any kind of Medicare plan unless they requested info and gave permission to contact. They are breaking the law even calling you, so how can you blindly trust anything they are telling you about the benefits. Unfortunately, those rules don’t get policed the way they should and the bad actors are out there in full force this time of year.

Answered by Martin Meyer on October 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, AL, AR & 18 other states

Answered by Martin Meyer Medicare Insurance Agent

Brittany Stickney · Answer

It’s not allowed—and I’m so sorry you have to deal with this. Those benefits are available to certain Medicare beneficiaries, but the majority of them don’t qualify for the benefits outlined in the ads that make them call. It’s a tactic to get the phone to ring and to circumvent the compliant marketing processes. Grocery cards are only available for people who have Medicare and Medicaid (dual-enrollees). Part B giveback plans are NOT for folks on Medicaid (Medicaid beneficiaries don’t typically pay Part B, so a “giveback” does not benefit them). People on Medicaid have a vastly different experience with their Medicare Advantage plans than those without Medicaid. Do not take any calls about Medicare that you did not initiate. If you need help applying for Medicaid, reach out to DHHS. Don’t put your information into Facebook lead forms. If you need to talk about your Medicare coverage, find an experienced local broker you can meet with. Ask for license numbers. Tell the agents and brokers you are also recording the call. Fight back any way you can!

Answered by Brittany Stickney on November 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in NE, AZ, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Brittany Stickney Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

.Believe it or not, there ARE some plans that offer you free groceries and free over-the-counter products if you join their plan. This is an enticing offer and sometimes that very benefit overwhelms someone since anything free is a boon (supposedly) to your finances. You must look at the overall benefits of the plan & not just a "niche" benefits. The crackdown on enticements like that have already taken place a few years ago when Joe Namath, Jimmie Walker and actor William Devane talked about a plan that many people already had in place but didn't know it. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) forced this company to re-shoot those TV commercials to eliminate the misleading parts of their plan.

Answered by Steven Bleicher on April 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Leslie Kaz · Answer

1️⃣ Some Medicare Advantage plans legitimately offer grocery benefits — mostly D-SNPs.

2️⃣ What’s not allowed is misleading marketing or implying Medicare itself is giving “free groceries.”

3️⃣ Many of these calls come from aggressive lead vendors or third-party marketers pushing the line.

4️⃣ Cold calls without prior consent are highly restricted and often non-compliant.

5️⃣ The benefit may be real — the sales tactic is usually the problem.

Walt Smith · Answer

It’s false so and it’s not allowed. They get around it because if you’re eligible for Medicaid, you can get those benefits.  A lot of crooks out there.

DeeDee Whitlock · Answer

It absolutely against Medicare guidelines to CALL any Medicare beneficiary to market Medicare Plans BUT this is NOT policed enough in my opinion because I continually get those calls myself! If you can get that agents NPN number and report them to your commissioner of insurance that would at least let them know who is breaking those guidelines set forth by Medicare themselves. I feel they are not punished enough to stop them. Best thing to do is to NOT communicate with them & find someone locally who can assist you compliantly and honestly.

Answered by DeeDee Whitlock on October 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA

Answered by DeeDee Whitlock Medicare Insurance Agent

James Stang · Answer

It's not. The person that called you is in violation of multiple contact rules, the first is cold calling, which is absolutely forbidden. You should never speak with someone about your Medicare that you do not know or did not contact first.

Answered by James Stang on October 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in OH

Answered by James Stang Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven A James, MBA · Answer

These ads are for Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) Dual Complete Plans, which are for Medicare beneficiaries who also qualify for Medicaid benefits.  These plans will provide more robust benefits than standard plans and would typically include:

1) Higher dental benefit allowance, and depending on the state, could be as high as several thousand dollars.
2) Monthly Over the Counter (OTC) benefits which may be as high as a few hundred dollars/month and may be used to purchase OTC products, healthy meals, and payment towards utilities.
3) Transportation, typically 24 or 4,8, which can be used for doctor and dental appointments as well as going to the pharmacy to pick up prescriptions.

So yes, the ads do catch people's attention, but they are valid.

Steven A James, MBA
Contact me.

Frank Woerner · Answer

Often these are larger call banks (phone solicitors) doing this. Sometimes they're connected to a carrier. Normally small independent brokers are less likely to seek clients using that method. I believe CMS is aware of this and may look into changes in the future.

Answered by Frank Woerner on February 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in IN & IL

Answered by Frank Woerner Medicare Insurance Agent

Hudson Albert · Answer

What you experienced is unfortunately very common—and it’s not as “legit” as it sounds. While some Medicare Advantage do offer limited benefits like grocery or OTC allowances, those are plan-specific and not guaranteed for everyone. The issue is that many callers use phrases like “free groceries” to grab attention, even though that’s a misleading oversimplification. These types of marketing tactics are regulated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and in many cases, cold-calling or making exaggerated claims actually violates the rules. The reality is, these calls are often part of a lead-generation system designed to get you on the phone—not to give you accurate information. Always ask for details about the specific plan and your eligibility before trusting any offer.

Answered by Hudson Albert on April 1, 2026

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, AZ & 20 other states

Answered by Hudson Albert Medicare Insurance Agent

Lenora Sikkenga · Answer

This marketing is not allowed legally .  As agents and brokers, under CMS rules, we are not allowed to cold call anyone or market door to door for Medicare advantage plans.

Françoise Mueller · Answer

“It is completely understandable that you almost fell for that call. These scammers are very convincing, and they make the call sound official.

The truth is that Medicare will not call you out of the blue to offer free groceries, gift cards, spending cards, or other special benefits. Medicare also will not call and ask for your Medicare number, Social Security number, bank account information, or credit card information.  

Many of these calls start with a small grain of truth. There are some legitimate programs that help certain low-income individuals with food and other expenses. Scammers take that information, twist it, and then call thousands of seniors pretending everyone qualifies for free benefits.

Their real goal is usually to obtain your Medicare number, Social Security number, or other personal information that can be used for fraud.  

To stay safe, remember these three simple rules:

1. Hang up immediately if someone calls unexpectedly offering free gifts, grocery cards, or Medicare benefits.
2. Never give your Medicare number or personal information to someone who called you.
3. If you’re unsure whether a call is legitimate, hang up and call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE or speak with a trusted licensed Medicare agent.  

If you’d like, I’d be happy to help you find legitimate programs and benefits that may be available in your area.”
Mahalo,

Francoise Mueller 
Contact me.

Tammy Stoner · Answer

The "Medicare agent" calls are frustrating for both members and agents. 

CMS rules on marketing allow members of a plan to be contacted and offered other benefits. 
It is true there may be a plan specific benefit that offers groceries, however, there are often qualifying conditions that must be met to be eligible. Your trusted agent knows what plans are available and what a beneficiary would qualify for.  
You may request to be on a Do Not Call list

Darlene Cerezo Swaffar · Answer

Yes, some telemarketers and tv commercials feel almost predatory in nature.  I have had many of my clients share the same sentiments with me.
The guidelines are changing for 2026.  If there is a Medicare Insurance Plan offering a food/utility spending card, it will require for you to have a chronic condition to qualify for that benefit.  The chronic condition will be determined by the plan evaluating past claims history.  
The same rules apply to chronic condition plans or dual eligible plans that offer this benefit.

Jeffrey Barone · Answer

This marketing, per Medicare, is not allowed. Agents are required to obtain a Permission To Contact card from a potential client before we can reach out.

Donald E Oates, CLU, ChFC, RTRP · Answer

It's illegal for agents to randomly call you unless you contacted them first, but the government doesn't seem to care about shutting down this type of activity. Marketing groups from around the country and out of the country call day and night from untraceable phone numbers so they get away with it. The Internet has ruined the business. Many plans do include OTC and groceries, so that is actually legit.

Answered by Donald E Oates, CLU, ChFC, RTRP on December 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in MD, AZ, CA & 31 other states

Answered by Donald E Oates, CLU, ChFC, RTRP Medicare Insurance Agent

Patricia McBride · Answer

Groceries and paying for utilities is a benefit on some polices for medicare beneficiaries that have both medicare and medicaid. The phone calls are often misleading and it is better not to give anyone you don’t know your information.

Answered by Patricia McBride on December 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX & LA

Answered by Patricia McBride Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

Rules on Marketing & Scams
No Unsolicited Calls: Agents are forbidden from calling you to sell Medicare Advantage or Part D plans without your prior consent.
Fake Identities: If the caller claims to be from "Medicare" or asks for your Social Security number or bank information, it is a scam.
Rules for 2026: New rules are tightening up these benefits; in 2026, qualifying for food/utility benefits will require proof of a chronic condition. 
How to Stop the Calls
Register: Put your phone number on the official Do Not Call List (or call 1-888-382-1222).
Report Them: Report fraudulent calls to 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or through the FTC Fraud Report website.
Hang Up: Never give personal or financial information to a caller you did not contact first.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

You're right to be wary. While some Medicare Advantage plans genuinely offer grocery allowances as a benefit, unsolicited calls promising free groceries from someone claiming to be a "Medicare agent" are often a form of deceptive marketing or a scam.

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on August 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Brown · Answer

These kinds of offers aren’t allowed, they’re violations of Medicare rules. Scammers and bad actors use them because they know they sound appealing, but a licensed, compliant agent will never promise you free groceries or gift cards in exchange for your enrollment.

Answered by Mary Brown on September 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL & NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by Mary Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Kramer · Answer

Firstly, it is 100% illegal, according to CMS, for a Medicare Agent (aka a licensed health insurance agent) to "cold call" anyone and pitch a Medicare Advantage plan, without giving prior permission for the call, either in writing (returning a post card), or verbal. As for the "free groceries" that's only available to someone who has both Medicare and Medicaid, and enrolling in a Dual Medicare Advantage plan. I tell my clients who receive such calls to get the name of the agent and report him/her to both CMS and the company they represent. They will lose their contract!

Answered by Andrew Kramer on August 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Meghan Blankenship · Answer

That's such a frustrating - and unfortunately common - experience. What you encountered is likely Medicare - related fraud or misleading marketing, and while it shouldn't be allowed, enforcement is still catching up with the tactics scammers and aggressive marketers use.

Answered by Meghan Blankenship on November 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, MD & OH

Answered by Meghan Blankenship Medicare Insurance Agent

Deborah Webster · Answer

All Medicare plans and the advertising of these plans are approved by Medicare. I do admit that some of the commercials can be very gimmicky at best. Sadly, many people don't realize that it is actually against Medicare compliance rules for a Medicare agent or agency to contact a Medicare beneficiary via phone call. Unless you have given permission to contact you via phone. I would avoid working with agents who are already breaking compliance rules before you even begin working with them. It is important to note that if you are calling a number you see advertised, you are permitting them to call.

Answered by Deborah Webster on June 8, 2026

Broker Licensed in Ia & SC

Answered by Deborah Webster Medicare Insurance Agent

Jaye Maxx Alexander II · Answer

That form of marketing is not allowed, and that agent from a call center was not honest, which is not allowed. I am glad you didn't fall for the marketing.

Don Hansford · Answer

The answer is that this type of marketing is not allowed. It is strictly forbidden for an agent to call you without first obtaining your permission. Ask them for their personal contact info along with their NPN (National Producer Number). They will not give it to you and will probably hang up. If they somehow do give it to you, hang up and call Medicare to report them.

Answered by Don Hansford on September 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Don Hansford Medicare Insurance Agent

John Motsinger · Answer

It's not. Nobody is allowed to call you about Medicare Advantage unless you gave them permission to call you. The only exception to that is if there's a 5 star plan available in your area, which is very rare. If an agent calls you and brings up Medicare advantage or Medicare part C they are breaking the law. The only other legal way they can call you about Medicare is if they're calling you about medicare supplements or they are offering to help you get your medicare part A & B set up for the very first time.

Answered by John Motsinger on August 31, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY, CO, FL & 9 other states

Answered by John Motsinger Medicare Insurance Agent

James Wareheim · Answer

This kind of marketing is not allowed. Unless you contacted the agent first they are not allowed to contact you regarding Medicare Advantage plans. If you have their contact information you should report them to Medicare in your area.

Answered by James Wareheim on December 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, GA, NC, NV & SC

Answered by James Wareheim Medicare Insurance Agent

Peggy Elliott · Answer

It is not allowed. This is an illegal phone call. If you had called a company and the agent of record had informed you of plans that include groceries, there are plans just as that but it is for people who are either Medicaid or LIS (low income subsidy). But if have not been the caller and were called without your consent, then this is illegal with the Center for Medicare Service CMS.

Answered by Peggy Elliott on August 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in OH

Answered by Peggy Elliott Medicare Insurance Agent

Jason Marshall · Answer

The term “free” is not allowed, unfortunately there are agents that use this tactic. There are plans out there that do provide grocery assistance funds depending on if you fit the criteria for those plans and your doctor and prescriptions are covered.

Answered by Jason Marshall on November 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA

Answered by Jason Marshall Medicare Insurance Agent

Stanley Wittenberg · Answer

Those calls are probably from an agent looking for people who are on state welfare or husky programs. Those have programs for groceries and other essential needs

Randy Hill · Answer

I’m so glad you asked — and even happier you didn’t fall for it. Let me explain what’s going on here.

Here’s the truth:

No real Medicare agent is allowed to promise you free groceries just to sign up for a plan. That breaks the rules.

These people are usually telemarketers, not real licensed agents.

They want to trick you into switching your Medicare plan even if it’s not a good one for you.

Once you sign up, they get paid, and you’re stuck with a plan that might not cover your doctors or your meds.
---

So why is this allowed?

It’s not!
The government has strict rules about Medicare marketing, but:

Some people ignore the rules and call anyway.

They use fake names and spoofed numbers, which makes them hard to track.

Medicare does investigate and shut them down when they can, but it’s like playing whack-a-mole, new ones pop up every day.
---

What You Can Do:

1. Hang up right away if someone offers free gifts, groceries, or cash to join a Medicare plan.

2. Report the call to Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE.

3. Only work with trusted, licensed agents (like me!) who will never pressure you or offer fake rewards.
---

Remember:
If someone’s plan is really good — they won’t need to bribe you with a grocery card to get you to join.

Your healtcare coverage is the most important part of any plan. Make sure your doctors and prescriptions are covered in any plan you select.

Let me know if you ever get another suspicious call — I’ll help you spot the fakes and keep you protected.

Here are the Top Scams to Watch Out For

1. “FREE Groceries” or Gift Cards
If someone says you’ll get free groceries or a gift card for joining a plan, hang up!

This is against Medicare rules

They're likely trying to switch your plan without telling you what you’re really getting

2. Fake “Medicare Agent” Calls
Real agents don’t call you out of nowhere without permission

If they ask for your Medicare number, hang up

Never give your Social Security number or banking info to a stranger

John Hawk · Answer

Really glad you didn’t fall for it — and you’re right to be frustrated. Here’s the honest answer on why this keeps happening:
It’s not really “allowed” — it’s a gray area being actively abused.
CMS has rules prohibiting misleading Medicare marketing. Agents and plans cannot:
	•	Make false benefit promises
	•	Use high-pressure tactics
	•	Promise benefits not included in the actual plan
But enforcement is slow and complaints are high. The sheer volume of bad actors — many operating as third-party lead generators, not licensed agents — makes it hard to police in real time.
Why it’s so common right now:
The VBID program termination in 2026 (which we discussed earlier) actually reduced grocery benefits significantly — but the TV ads and phone scripts haven’t caught up. Many callers are still pitching benefits that no longer exist at the scale they’re implying.
Red flags you can share with clients:
	•	Unsolicited calls promising specific dollar amounts (”$900 in free groceries!”)
	•	Pressure to decide immediately
	•	Asking for Medicare or Social Security numbers upfront
	•	“I’m calling from Medicare” — Medicare does not call you
What to do if it happens:
	•	Hang up
	•	Report it to 1-800-MEDICARE or the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
	•	Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

Christopher Stewart · Answer

It is not. It is not legal to cold call Medicare beneficiaries. Unfortunately, this continues to be a problem. The best way around this is to ONLY speak with your agent/broker or your current insurance carrier about your Medicare plan and options.

Answered by Christopher Stewart on May 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states

Answered by Christopher Stewart Medicare Insurance Agent

Jamie Herrick · Answer

This is a great question!
If you have Medicare and Medicaid you may qualify for this benefit!
Check with an agent!

Bill Holland · Answer

The Free Groceries thing is sort of in a grey area. 

1) The Food /Grocery benefits are in addition to the Primary Medical benefits. Medicare agent/brokers are not allowed to discuss specific plan medical benefits until you have signed what is called a "Scope of the Appointment" form.  Also You must qualify for the Food/Grocery  Benefits , not everyone can get them. To qualify you must have a specific Health Condition or be below a certain income level etc .

2) Medicare Agent/Brokers CAN NOT make unsolicited contact with Medicare Beneficiaries. You may have answered one of those online surveys that ask all sorts of question. Buried in those Questions is a note that you are giving a Medicare agent/broker permission to call you. Same con as free windows in your zip code and you get calls from every New Window seller in 50 miles.

I am hoping that CMS? Medicare will Tighten up and Stop these type of phone calls.

WHEN IN DOUBT CONTACT A LOCAL AGENT/BROKER OR CMS !
2)

Heather Johnson · Answer

I can definitely understand the confusion! There are certain plans that do allow extra benefits, such as grocery spending, every month but not everyone qualifies, so they should not be making empty promises just to get in your door.

Answered by Heather Johnson on August 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, IA, KS & NE

Answered by Heather Johnson Medicare Insurance Agent

Jon Harkness · Answer

It’s allowed because it’s partially true. There are certain plans, if you qualify for them, that give you monthly allowances/stipends to help with groceries, over the counter drugs, and even sometimes utilities.

Some plans come with a small quarterly allowance, but most plans require you to be eligible for a Chronic Disability Plan (diabetes, cardiovascular disorder,or chronic heart failure) or Dual Complete (which is only attainable if you are currently on Medicaid).

If you are ever curious to whether or not your plan has an allowance/stipend or you would like to view any that you qualify for, it’s best to reach out to a trusted agent who can walk you through the process and let you see with your own eyes what you are or are not eligible for.

Rene Casanova · Answer

This is true only for people what have both Medicare and Medicaid referred to as Dual Eligibles. The type of plans that do offer some coverage to cover the cost of groceries as a benefit are HMO plans only that require you choose a Primary Care Physician from the network and get a referral to see a specialist. You cannot go out of network or risk paying 100% of the bill. Very rich in benefits, but only for people who qualify.

Answered by Rene Casanova on April 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Rene Casanova Medicare Insurance Agent

Christie Bondos · Answer

It's not and I'm glad you didn't take the bait.. Agents shouldn't promise folks anything based on a phone call. IF you're interested in Value Added benefits you can contact an agent for more information. Don't ever give any personal identifying information over the phone to a stranger.

Answered by Christie Bondos on May 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in CT

Answered by Christie Bondos Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Mullinax · Answer

I cannot honestly answer this question, as an agent I am not allowed to do this sort of marketing. My suggestion to you is to answer them with you will speak to your personal agent and if you are entitled to those benefits they will let you know, and ask them to remove you from the call list immediately. I know any agent should be happy to have you as a client. We are always eager to help anyone.

Answered by Mark Mullinax on November 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in GA, AL, FL & NC, SC, TN & TX

Answered by Mark Mullinax Medicare Insurance Agent

Rodrigo Ferrer · Answer

It's a very difficult thing to realize that everyday you are a prime target for scammers and thieves. That type of marketing isn't allowed or sanctioned by Medicare, but who's to stop it? A legitimate agent will not cold call you. It's illegal. A legitimate agent won't make false promises or mislead you. That's illegal too. A legitimate agent won't rush you to enroll or use scare tactics. Illegal and Illegal. So who can you trust? Remember what we all learned in kindergarten? Never talk to strangers. That may seem harsh, but it's a good rule of thumb. If someone calls you and you have not requested them to, it's illegal and most likely a scam. Ask some questions about the agent... where are they licensed (and license number), who do they represent, how long have they done this, what's their website etc etc. Get to know who you are dealing with so it's no longer just a stranger helping you with your Medicare. If not, buyer beware.

Answered by Rodrigo Ferrer on April 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in CT

Answered by Rodrigo Ferrer Medicare Insurance Agent

Jennifer Ragborg · Answer

Unfortunately, there are some bad actors in the industry who will try to sow doubt that you have a good plan for you so you will invite them into your life.  Many of the promises including free groceries and "money back from the government" are available only to those on government assistance.

This isn't marketing nor is it allowed.

Cheryl Canty · Answer

Some Medicare advantage plans offer grocery benefits to people on Medicaid or certain conditions. Not everyone qualifies.

I got a call from a "Medicare agent" promising me free groceries and I almost fell for it. Why is this kind of marketing allowed?

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I got a call from a "Medicare agent" promising me free groceries and I almost fell for it. Why is this kind of marketing allowed?

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