Larsen Announces $250 "Donut Hole' Checks Being Mailed Today

Press Release

U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) announced that, starting today, thousands of seniors across Washington state will begin to receive their $250 "donut hole' checks to help reduce their prescription drug costs. Under the new health care reform law, seniors who fall into the donut hole coverage cap in 2010 will receive a one-time tax free $250 rebate check. Beginning in 2011, seniors in the donut hole will receive a 50% discount on brand name drugs and by 2020 the donut hole will be completely closed. Last year, 76,600 Medicare beneficiaries hit the donut hole in Washington state.

"These $250 "donut hole' rebate checks will provide much-needed financial relief to Washington state seniors who are struggling with the skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs," said Rep. Larsen. "Seniors deserve to count on strong Medicare coverage and affordable prescription drugs, especially during these tough economic times when every dollar counts. These checks will immediately begin to help lower the costs of prescription drugs for the tens of thousands of Washington state seniors who fall in to the donut hole this year."

Medicare recipients will automatically receive the $250 check as soon as their prescription drug costs for the year hit $2,830.

Larsen also cautioned seniors to beware of scams and Medicare fraud. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and senior officials from the Administration on Aging and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are heading up the efforts to give seniors the information they need to protect themselves from scams or fraud when it comes to their Medicare benefits.

"I have heard from many seniors who are concerned about the misinformation they heard about the new health care law," said Rep. Larsen. "I am working to make sure Washington state seniors have the right information about health care reform so they can protect themselves from the latest Medicare fraud and scams as these checks begin to hit mailboxes. Be cautious about materials you receive, and if you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office."

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