February 7, 2019
South Burnett residents who haven’t given Medicare their updated bank details could get a quick financial windfall.
Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien said on Thursday almost 670,000 people across Australia haven’t done this, leaving the Federal Government with $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.
However, 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 they could start receiving the cash rebates they are entitled to.
“It’s quick and easy,” he said.
“The easiest way is by using one of Medicare’s digital channels, such as the Medicare Express Plus app, or through your myGov account.
“It will only take a few minutes.
“Medicare will take care of the rest and the money you’re owed will be deposited in your account within days.”
Medicare customers are also reminded that scammers posing as Medicare have been known to contact people asking for their bank account details, so they should 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,” Mr O’Brien 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.
More information about how to set up a Medicare online account is available online
