I received a check from my health insurance?

Question

I recieved a check from my insurance company to pay for a procedure that was done by an out-of-network doctor. well i paid that. a few weeks later i recieve another check for the same amount my question is, i believe this is a mistake, what would happen if i cashed it? Its made out directly to me, so it is a valid check.....

would they garnish my wage or what else could happen??

Answer 1

They will request the money back, often with interest at any time - forever. If you do not comply with that request, they can sue you and will win, because essentially, you are stealing from them.

Answer 2

They will discover the error and come after you for the money.

They can obtain a judgement against you in court that will appear on your credit report. Once a court judgement is obtained, they could garnish your wages (if they chose to pursue that).

You need to return the check - its not worth the hassle that they will give you. (Regardless of the dollar amount.)

BTW - for all you know, the check could be void already. If they discovered the duplicate check error and already saw that your first check had been cashed, they would stop payment on the 2nd check without notifying you. Then you'd get hit with bank fees for trying to cash the 2nd check.

Answer 3

When they discover their error, they will request that the money be returned. Most insurers do regular audits to cover such double payment errors. Save yourself the hassle, call them, and explain what you think occurred.

Answer 4

They will ravenously come after you for the money, especially if they provided an explanation of benefits prior to issuing or with your check. Be careful!

Answer 5

SEND THE MONEY BACK, YOU DO NOT WANT TO PAY THEM BACK WITH INTEREST.

Answer 6

jeez people! it's not her money. if she cashes it, its stealing. does no one have any morals anymore?