COVID-19 vaccines will soon be authorized for administration to the public. It will take many months to distribute and administer the vaccine to more than 300 million people. States are developing plans for when people will get the vaccine.

Expect scammers to take advantage of the situation. These tips will help you avoid a vaccine-related scam.

Expect scammers to take advantage of the situation. These tips will help you avoid a vaccine-related scam.

• You can't pay to get early access to the vaccine.

• You can't pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.

• You possibly won't have to pay anything out of pocket to receive the vaccine.

• Hang up on any calls that ask for your Social Security number, your credit card number or your bank account information in order to sign you up to get the vaccine.

• Ignore any calls, texts, emails, or other communications that claim they can get you early access to the vaccine.

For more information about vaccine availability and distribution in your area, check your state website.