by Susan M. Graham, Certified Elder Law Attorney, Senior Edge Legal, Boise, Idaho
Seniors are often targeted by fraudsters due to their accumulated wealth. Here’s how to protect yourself from the two most common types of fraud:
Protecting Your Checks
- Mail checks inside at official post offices only, not personal mailboxes or “blue boxes”
- Use permanent ink that can’t be washed away
- Fill entire lines for recipient names and amounts to prevent alterations
- Review bank statements at least monthly and report issues within 30 days
Avoiding Elder Fraud
Common scams include:
- Requests for money from family members or caregivers
- Emergency calls from fake grandchildren
- Fake sweepstakes or charity requests
- Impersonators claiming to be government agencies, banks, etc.
How to Protect Yourself
- Consult a trusted advisor (attorney, accountant, or financial planner) before sending money
- Never share personal information over unsolicited phone calls
- Verify requests by calling organizations directly using official numbers
- Don’t click email attachments from unknown senders
Report Scams Immediately
- Contact your local police
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-372-8311 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-4 PM Mountain Time)
- Visit the Office for Victims of Crime website for additional resources
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Do you have a written estate plan that protects your future and your loved ones? Call to schedule a meeting with Susan Graham to give you peace of mind that your affairs are in order (phone 208-344-0375 or Contact Us on our website).
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