The letter is what counts. AI only helps you read it.
Step 1: Remove private details
- Cover your SSN, Medicare or member ID, and account numbers.
- Cover your name, birth date and address.
- Pasting? Delete the numbers first. Photo? Cover them with paper.
- Never share a password or PIN.
- Keep the dates, amounts and phone number.
New to this? Try the practice letter first.
Step 2: Ask AI to explain it
Paste the prompt. Add your letter after it, or a photo with + or Add files (free in ChatGPT and Gemini once signed in; daily limits). Then send.
Explain this letter in plain words. Who sent it? Why? What happens if I do nothing? Read all of it, even small print and any P.S. If something is unclear, say so. Don't guess. Here is the letter:
Too long? Reply: Shorter please, 5 lines max.
Step 3: Ask for a list
Make a table of every date, amount, action and phone number. Include small print and any P.S. Columns: Type | Exact words | Meaning. Mark each action Required or Optional, with its deadline. For "within X days," work out the date. One row per item. At the end, give a total for each type. Add nothing that isn't in the letter.
Step 4: Check it against the letter
- Go down the letter, line by line. Count the rows yourself; don't trust AI totals.
- Delete any AI question that assumes something you didn't say, like a missed deadline.
- Call only a number you look up yourself on an official website.
| ✓ | Type | AI says | Letter says |
|---|---|---|---|
| ☐ | |||
| ☐ | |||
| ☐ | |||
| ☐ | |||
| ☐ | |||
| ☐ |
Step 5: Get questions, or get help
Which items should I check with the sender? Write 3 to 5 short questions to ask them. Don't say who is right.
Call a person if a deadline is close or the AI and letter disagree.
Scam signs: a rush to act, or paying by gift card, wire, payment app or crypto.
| Who | How |
|---|---|
| The sender | Number you look up yourself |
| Medicare | 1-800-633-4227 (TTY 1-877-486-2048) |
| SHIP (free Medicare counseling) | shiphelp.org |
| Local help with bills | Dial 211 |
Checked: medicare.gov, shiphelp.org, 211.org, consumer.ftc.gov, help.openai.com, support.google.com/gemini, Oct 16, 2026.
Practice letter
PRACTICE - NOT REAL. Made up for this guide. Do not call the number.
==================== PRACTICE - NOT REAL ==================== MEADOWMERE VALLEY WATER COMPANY (fictional) 14 Pretend Lane, Nowhereville, XX 00000 November 2, 2026 Dear Pat Example, Account: PRACTICE-0000 RE: Overdue balance, meter visit and your details Our records show an overdue balance of $86.40 on your account. Please pay this amount by November 30, 2026. We also need to replace your water meter. A technician will visit on December 11, 2026, between 8 a.m. and noon. Please call us by December 4, 2026 to confirm this appointment or to choose another day. Please sign and return the enclosed Customer Details Form within 14 days of the date of this letter. From January 1, 2027, the monthly service charge will be $22.75. You may also sign up for paperless billing on our website. Customer Service: (212) 555-0147, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sincerely, Jordan Sample Customer Accounts Team (fictional) P.S. If payment is not received by the due date, a late fee of $15.00 will be added to your account. ==================== PRACTICE - NOT REAL ====================
How did you do? The AI should find 5 dates, 3 amounts, 3 required actions, 1 optional action and 1 phone number.
- The $15.00 late fee hides in the P.S.
- "Within 14 days" means November 16, 2026.
- Paperless billing is Optional.