What is UI Fraud?

Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud is intentionally making false statements, providing false information, or withholding information for the purpose of obtaining or increasing UI benefits. This type of fraud tends to be intentional, such as:

• knowingly submitting false information;
• continuing to collect benefits when knowing oneself to be ineligible;
• not being able and available to work while certifying for benefits under state law;
• or intentionally not reporting wages or income while collecting full benefits.

The most common and most widespread type of fraud today is identity theft - or imposter - fraud.

To learn more on Unemployment Insurance Fraud please visit:

https://support.thomas-and-company.com/hc/en-us/categories/1500000053821-CLAIMS-FRAUD

Be Alert

These could be signs that someone used your identity to file an unemployment claim.

• Look for UI notices, checks, debit cards, Form 1099-G or other tax forms related to benefits you did not initiate.
• Be wary of strangers asking for personal information such as your address or date of birth. This might be a fraudster phishing for information.

Say Something

If you get any uninitiated notices from the State Unemployment office, be sure to notify:

• Your HR Department – so they can also alert the state to a potential issue.
• Report the potential fraud online to the state workforce agency (UI Claimant Fraud Contacts).
• Notify the IRS and FTC that you are a potential fraud victim (identitytheft.gov).
• Alert your bank and the 3 credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) so you can freeze your credit or place a fraud alert on your account.

Remain Vigilant

Be careful who you share information with.

• Never post any personal identifiable information on social media.
• Never pay to get help with your unemployment claim or benefits.
• Never cash a benefit check for someone via wire transfer, gift card or cash – this is always a SCAM.