Every enrollment season brings a surge of scams aimed at people shopping for health insurance. Some are outright fraud. Others sell something real — just not what you think you are buying. Knowing the warning signs protects both your wallet and your health.
Scam 1: Fake marketplace websites
Look-alike sites use names and designs that mimic HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace. They collect personal information or route you to non-ACA products. Protect yourself: type your marketplace address directly, and remember the official federal site ends in .gov. Enrolling in a marketplace plan never costs an application fee.
Scam 2: "You must pay to keep your coverage"
Callers claim your coverage will be cancelled unless you pay immediately by gift card, wire transfer, or payment app. Real insurers bill you directly and never demand gift cards.
Scam 3: Plans that are not ACA insurance
Some products are marketed as "affordable health plans" but are actually discount cards, limited-benefit plans, or short-term coverage. They may exclude pre-existing conditions, cap benefits, or skip preventive care. Ask directly: "Is this an ACA-compliant plan?" and ask for the Summary of Benefits and Coverage.
Scam 4: Unauthorized plan switching
Federal regulators have taken action against agents who enrolled people or switched their plans without consent to collect commissions. Watch for unexpected notices, a new insurer name, or a changed plan you did not choose. Protect yourself: never share your marketplace login, and review any letter about your coverage right away.
Scam 5: Pressure and too-good-to-be-true pricing
"$0 for everyone," "today only," or promises of cash rewards for signing up are red flags. Real subsidies depend on your income and household; no one can promise a price before seeing your information.
Scam 6: Requests for sensitive data up front
A legitimate agent needs details like income and household size to quote you, but be cautious about sharing Social Security or bank numbers with anyone you did not seek out. Verify licensing before you share.
How to verify an agent or broker
- Ask for their full name and National Producer Number (NPN).
- Look them up with your state's department of insurance.
- For marketplace plans, confirm they are registered with the marketplace.
Legitimate brokers are paid by insurers, not by you — learn more in do you need a health insurance broker?
If you think you have been scammed
Contact your marketplace to review your account, call your insurer, report the incident to your state insurance department and the FTC, and monitor your credit if you shared sensitive information.
Want to shop with a licensed agent you can verify? Our free tool compares plans across top carriers and shows what you would actually pay in about 60 seconds — no obligation, and a licensed agent reviews your options with you. Get your free quote →