PROTECTING OUR SENIORS

Every year, Puerto Rico faces the threat of hurricanes, floods due to heavy rains and other weather events that can cause extensive damage to property. For this reason, we call on citizens, including homeowners, businesses and businesses, to review and update their property insurance policies in advance.

If you have questions about your policy, need help understanding coverage, or wish to file a complaint, you can contact the OCS.

What can citizens do?

Individuals aged sixty-seven (67) or older may be entitled to expedited administrative processes under Law No. 147-2019, known as the "Expedited Administrative Processes for Seniors Act."

If you file a complaint with the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance, please inform us that you are a senior citizen so we can advise you on your rights and protections.

What if the property has a mortgage?

• Never share Social Security numbers, bank accounts, passwords, verification codes, or financial information with unknown individuals.
• Be wary of unexpected phone calls, text messages, emails, or requests for personal, financial, or medical information.
• Do not purchase an insurance policy, financial product, or investment without fully understanding its terms, conditions, benefits, and costs.
• Before changing, canceling, or replacing an insurance policy, consult with a family member, caregiver, trusted person, or your insurance producer.
• Verify that the person or entity offering you an insurance product is duly authorized by the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance of Puerto Rico.
• Be wary of individuals who offer to manage claims, perform repairs, or sell insurance products without proper identification or authorization, especially after an emergency or natural disaster.
• Periodically review the designated beneficiaries on your insurance policies to ensure they reflect your current wishes.
• Do not make financial decisions under pressure or make immediate payments for offers that seem too good to be true or require an urgent response.
• If you have doubts about an offer, a call, or a communication related to insurance, first consult with a family member, caregiver, insurance producer, or contact the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance.
• If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud or a scam, seek help immediately and report the incident to the appropriate authorities.

Recommendations for Family Members and Caregivers

• Help seniors periodically review their insurance policies and important documents.
• Keep contact information for the insurer, insurance producer, and supporting family members up to date.
• Inform a family member or trusted person where insurance policies and important documents are located.
• Educate seniors on how to identify potential fraud schemes, identity theft, or scams, including fraudulent phone calls, text messages, or emails requesting personal, financial, or medical information.
• Make sure they know how to contact their insurer, insurance producer, or authorized representative in case of an emergency or claim.

Office of the Commissioner of Insurance of Puerto Rico

World Plaza Building
268 Muñoz Rivera Ave., 9th Floor
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00918

Phone: (787) 304-8686
Website: www.ocs.pr.gov

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