General, SSI

Unemployment Insurance Fraud and Social Security

February 4, 2021 • By

Last Updated: March 23, 2021

Unemployment Insurance Fraud and Social SecurityScammers are using the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to file fraudulent unemployment claims, often using someone else’s identity. Scammers may even use the identity of someone who is receiving or applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

SSI applicants and recipients who begin to receive—or seemingly begin to receive—State Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits could appear to be ineligible for SSI benefits. They could even appear to be overpaid because of an unemployment claim filed in their name.

These UI fraud schemes are widespread and affect most states. The United States Secret Service is investigating more than 500 claims in over 40 states related to unemployment fraud.

At Social Security, we’re taking steps to verify whether SSI applicants and recipients are victims of UI fraud. We will not reduce or terminate your payments due to a fraudulent unemployment claim. You can find information on how to report fraud on the Department of Labor’s website.

Remember that scammers always look for a chance to exploit your fears. Don’t fall for their tactics—and guard your personal information. Make sure to check out our past blog articles covering scams to stay informed. Please share this information with your friends and family—and let’s help each other stay vigilant.

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About the Author

Darlynda Bogle, Assistant Deputy Commissioner

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Comments

  1. Ms. Z.

    How to remove a post????

  2. Ms. Z.

    How to remove a post

  3. John A.

    Is SSI, SS,& RAILROAD RETIREMENT SUPPOSED GET AN EXTRA $200.00 MONTHLY BECAUSE OF COVID-19??

  4. ELAINE H.

    Is SSI, SS,& RAILROAD RETIREMENT SUPPOSED GET AN EXTRA $200.00 MONTHLY BECAUSE OF COVID-19??

  5. Jsp198238@gmail.com

    I signed up to get a social security card and my unemployment stopped please help

    • Ann C.

      Hi. We are sorry to hear about your situation. If you recently lost your job, you may be eligible to receive social services from the state in which you live. These services include Medicaid, free meals, housekeeping help, transportation or help with other situations, including unemployment benefits. You can get information about services in your area as well as check on your unemployment benefits status by contacting your state or local social services or welfare office. If you need to follow up on your Social Security card application, please contact local Social Security office. We hope this helps.

  6. Lance P.

    I put my direct deposite information on my taxes and someone made changes and put a different email so will my refund still go to my direct deposit

    • Ann C.

      Hi, Lance. For any income tax questions, you will need to contact the IRS. Their toll-free number is 1-800-829-1040 or you can visit their website here. We hope this helps.

  7. Tina M.

    What do you do if your ssn number has gotten out to scammers?

    • Ann C.

      Hi, Tina. We are sorry to hear about your situation. Generally, identity theft issues are handled by the Federal Trade Commission. You can find more information on their website: http://www.idtheft.gov or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). To learn more about the steps individuals can take to prevent or resolve issues of identity theft, check out our publication, Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number. We hope this helps.

  8. Emma S.

    Someone Tried To Fraud My Name With Unemployment Benefits

  9. Patsy R.

    I got a email telling me to confirm my social security number for unemployment but I didnt sign up for unemployment in thinking its fraud

    • Sue

      Hi, Patsy, and thanks for using our blog. If you think someone is using your personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment claim, check out our Social Security and Coronavirus webpage for details on what you can do. We hope this helps!

  10. Patsy R.

    I got a email saying I need to confirm my social security number for unemployment but I didnt sign up for unemployment and i haven’t sent nothing back to that email is it fraud

    • Sue

      Hi, Patsy, and thanks for using our blog. If you think someone is using your personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment claim, check out our Social Security and Coronavirus webpage for details on what you can do. We hope this helps!

    • Erik a.

      Yes it is

Comments are closed.