DIFS Alerts Consumers to Third-party Bill Pay Sites Potentially Charging Unnecessary Fees and Delaying Payments

Media Contact:?Laura Hall, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]?
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:?August 9, 2023?

(LANSING, MICH) The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is alerting consumers to be aware of third-party bill pay websites that insert themselves into the financial transactions between insurance companies and their customers, potentially charging additional fees and delaying timely payments.

?Although it may appear that these sites are associated with insurers and other service providers, they are not, and consumers who use them may pay unnecessary fees or experience delayed payments,? said DIFS Director Anita Fox. ?Always be careful when entering your personal or financial information online. The safest way to pay your premium is by using one of the payment methods listed on your bill to ensure your personal information remains safe and your payment is received on time.?

When a consumer searches to find an insurance company?s portal for paying premiums, sometimes a third-party bill pay site may appear at the top of the search results, even above the insurer?s actual payment portal. The payment page may appear to be affiliated with the insurance company, but may include in small print that it is not affiliated with the company receiving payment and that no endorsement has been given nor is implied. These third-party bill pay sites offer bill paying services for any industry, not just the insurance industry.

Consumers who have questions or disputes resulting from a transaction made through a third-party bill pay site that cannot be directly resolved with their insurance company or financial services entity can contact DIFS at 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS?or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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