Español Identity theft happens when someone uses another person’s personal information to collect Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. This can cause serious problems for both employees and employers. We are committed to protecting your identity and the integrity of the UI program. If you think someone has filed a false UI claim, (also called an imposter claim), report it to the EDD immediately. Show
Report False ClaimsThe best way to report false claims is by visiting Ask EDD and selecting the Report Fraud category to submit a Fraud Reporting Form online. You can also fax 1-866-340-5484 or call the EDD Fraud Hotline at 1-800-229-6297 (for reporting fraud only). When reporting fraud:
Note: To ensure the confidentiality and integrity of any investigation, the EDD does not provide status updates unless court-ordered or required by law. Next StepsIf you are a victim of identity theft, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or call 1-877-ID-THEFT. Resources
Report Fraud to DESReport suspected unemployment fraud using our online Fraud Report Form.You may also call the DES Fraud Hotline at 919-701-3543.Victims of Fraud and ID.me Verification If you receive a notice to complete ID.me and are a victim of fraud, do not complete ID.me verification. Instead, you or your employer should report the suspected fraud to DES through the fraud hotline or Fraud Report Form. About Unemployment FraudWe take unemployment fraud seriously. The Division of Employment Security is working hard to detect and prevent fraud in the unemployment benefits system. If you suspect someone has used your name and personal information to apply for unemployment benefits, please let us know by using the DES Fraud Reporting Form. Employers should review all notices they receive from the Division of Employment Security relating to unemployment benefit charges and employee separations, and report any errors or disagreements. Reporting Unemployment FraudIf you suspect someone has used your personal information to apply for unemployment benefits, you should report it to DES using our Fraud Reporting Form. This will allow us to investigate the suspected fraud and, if necessary, stop the payment of benefits. Our benefits system may automatically send you a bill for overpayment of benefits. If you have been a victim of fraud, don’t worry! You are not liable for the payment. Requests for information about a fraudulent claim may be submitted to DES using the Request for Release of Information Form. Tab/Accordion Item Identity Theft/Imposter Fraud Fraudsters use another person’s personal identifying information (PII) to apply for and receive unemployment benefits. PII can be stolen through outside data breaches, email phishing schemes, impersonation scams and other methods. Fraud Overpayments This kind of fraud occurs when a claimant makes false statements or withholds information to receive unemployment benefits; for example, when a claimant continues to receive benefits after returning to work, and does not report their earnings. According to the FBI, be on the lookout for the following suspicious activities:
Take the following steps if you believe you have been a victim of identity theft:
The Division of Employment Security occasionally receives notification of potential scams aimed at unemployment claimants and their current or former employers. Learn more about known Unemployment Scams and Fraud Alerts. How can I find out if someone is collecting unemployment in my name in California?If you receive documents from the EDD but did not file a claim for benefits, someone may have filed a claim under your name, address, or Social Security number. To report benefits fraud, visit Report Fraud in Ask EDD. You can also call the EDD Fraud Hotline at 1-800-229-6297.
What do I do if someone filed unemployment under my name in NY?If someone has filed a prior claim in your name and you need to file for unemployment benefits, call our Telephone Claims Center at 888-209-8124. I am not a victim of identity theft, but I have received mail from NYS DOL for another person.
What do you do if someone files for unemployment in your name in NJ?Report fraud by phone, mail, or fax. By phone: 609-777-4304.. By fax: 609-292-5593.. By mail: Benefit Payment Control, PO Box 043, Trenton NJ 08625.. How do I know if someone has filed unemployment in my name in PA?Contact the three major credit bureaus: Experian (1-888-397-3742), TransUnion (1-800-680-7289) and Equifax (1 800 525 6285). Get free credit reports by visiting annualcreditreport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228.
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