Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Avoid insurance scams

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is

Unfortunately, there are always unscrupulous people who seek to make a quick buck off those in need. Follow these tips to avoid becoming a victim of an insurance scam:

  • Make sure the company is licensed to do business in Washington.
  • If you don’t recognize a company’s name, do some research before you sign up for anything. Carefully examine brochures and websites, and call us at 1-800-562-6900 to see if we have taken enforcement actions against the company.
  • Always deal with reputable agents. Ask friends who they've had good experience with.
  • Be suspicious if coverage seems unusually cheap. On health insurance policies, be particularly wary if there are few questions about your health or the coverage is referred to as stop-loss insurance.
  • Only buy state-licensed products. If an agent tries to sell you an ERISA or union plan, call us right away at the phone number below.

Report scams

If you think you have fallen prey to an insurance scam or someone has tried to sell you a suspicious plan, please report it to us immediately at 1-800-562-6900.



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