Tips to Avoid a Scam:

1. The Golden Rule
When an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Keep Personal Info Private
Never give your bank account, social security, or credit card numbers to anyone you don’t know and trust.

3. Avoid High Pressure Sales
Say no to any offer or deal that is only available right now.

4. Never Pay for a Prize
If you are offered a prize but are asked to pay a “processing fee” or “taxes in advance,”it is likely a scam. You shouldn’t have to pay anything to win a free prize.

If you’re still not sure whether it's a scam, call our Scam Hotline at (858) 715-1648.

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Tips to Avoid Being Scammed

Planning for the end of life can be emotionally difficult as well as complicated. There are many products out there and it can be difficult to choose which one is right for you. From wills to living trusts, estate planning to powers of attorney, the choices you make are personal and require plenty of contemplation. Scammers look to take advantage of your fears and concerns by selling you products you don’t need and that your heirs will not benefit from.

Beware the living trust mill! Sales agents posing as expert financial or estate planners may try to sell you boilerplate trusts for thousands of dollars. The sales person will likely distort and misrepresent probate fees and estate taxes and how they will affect your heirs in order to scare you into purchasing a living trust. If you fall for this, not only will you be out a large amount of money, but also have a next to useless document that is likely inappropriate for your financial and estate planning needs. You could also be giving them access to your personal investment and financial asset information. In some extreme cases, doing this can have a negative effect, resulting in damaged assets or loss of investments.

• DO discuss you planning needs with a trusted attorney.
• DO call the State Bar of California’s toll free number for seniors at 1-888-460-7364. They can help you select the right attorney for your needs.
• DO make sure that you work with an attorney and not a “trust advisor,” “senior estate planner,” or “paralegal.”
• DO NOT work with a company that tries to sell you annuities or other investment products.
• DO file a report if you believe you have been a victim of a trust mill. Contact the Consumer Fraud Section of your local district attorney’s office.
• DO be cautious of living trust informational seminars offering free lunches. They are likely just trying to get you in the door in order to sell to you.

For further information, feel free to call Elder Law and Advocacy’s newest nonprofit program Senior Shield at their Scam Hotline (858) 715-1648 for advice and helpful resources.

Scam Menu: LATEST SCAMS Auto Scams Charity Scams Door-to-Door Solicitor Scams Estates & Trusts Scams Home Repair Scams Internet & Email Scams Investment Scams Medicare & Prescription Scams Mortgage Scams Postal Mail Scams Telephone Scams