Wide Bay residents encouraged to claim $110 million in Medicare rebates
7/2/2019
Wide Bay residents encouraged to claim $110 million in Medicare rebates
Wide Bay residents could land themselves a financial windfall, by doing one simple thing to claim their cash from the Federal Government, Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien announced today.
Almost 670,000 people have not provided Medicare with their bank details, leaving more than $110 million in unclaimed cash.
“By simply updating your bank account details with Medicare, you could access any rebates you may have missed,” Mr O’Brien said.
The average amount owed to each individual is about $150, but some people could be missing out on far more, if they are regular visitors to their doctor, or have had treatment for a serious medical condition.
Mr O’Brien encouraged residents to update their bank account details, so that they could start receiving their cash rebates.
“It’s quick and easy to update your details – the easiest way to update your details is by using one of our digital channels, such as the Medicare Express Plus app, or through your myGov account.”
“It will only take a few minutes of your time, then Medicare will then take care of the rest, and the money you’re owed will be deposited in your account within days.
“It’s a really simple task that will ensure you receive the money that you are entitled to quickly and easily.”
Minister for Human Services and Digital Transformation Michael Keenan is reminding all Wide Bay residents to keep their details up to date, so that they can receive rebates quickly and easy.
“The Liberal Nationals Government would much rather see this money sitting in your pockets, instead of ours, which is why we are again reminding those who haven’t given Medicare their bank account details, that they need to take action now.”
Medicare Customers are reminded that scammers posing as Medicare have been known to contact people asking for their bank account details, so residents need to remain vigilant.
“As recently as late last year, scammers were actively targeting people through SMS messages, that urged them to click on a hyperlink to claim their outstanding Medicare rebates,” Minister Keenan said.
“While the department does call, SMS, or email people, it never includes hyperlinks in emails or text messages.”
Reminder letters will be sent to people shortly, and will contain clear instructions on how missed rebates may be claimed. Anyone with concerns are encouraged to call, or visit one of the hundreds of service centres around the country.
For more information on how to set up a Medicare online account, visit humanservices.gov.au/medicareonline
