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HELENA - Montanans are being warned about healthcare scams targeting Medicare recipients.

People who are covered by Medicare will be receiving a $250 rebate check when their prescription drug costs reach the coverage gap, often called the "donut hole."

The $250 rebate is automatic once prescription costs reach the $2,830 threshold, and recipients do not need to take any action.

Scammers are believed to be targeting seniors by promising to help them receive their $250 rebate checks sooner, or convincing eligible seniors that they need to use a pay-for-service company in order to qualify for the rebate.

"Beneficiaries who reach the donut hole will get a check mailed to the same address Medicare uses to send them information now without doing anything special," noted Medical official Marilynn Tavenner. "Seniors should be on the look-out for scams where people they don't know ask them for their personal information in order to get their checks. This is not how the process will work. Checks will come directly to beneficiaries who qualify for this benefit."

Montana Commissioner of Securities & Insurance Monica Lindeen is urging anyone to call her office at 1.800.332.6148 if they are contacted by someone offering to help get their rebate check or asking for personal information.

If a Medicare recipient believes he or she has reached the "donut hole" and has not received a check within 45 days, the recipient should call 1.800.MEDICARE.

Click here to learn more about protecting yourself or loved ones against Medicare fraud.