State unemployment agency warns of phone scam promising unpaid benefits

How it works

You receive a phone call from someone claiming to work for the unemployment insurance agency. They tell you that you have unpaid benefits waiting but you must pay a fee to receive the money. The scammer creates urgency and may ask for payment by wire transfer, gift card, or bank account details.

Red flags to watch for

• Caller claims to be from unemployment agency but you did not initiate contact
• They demand a fee or upfront payment to release your benefits
• The number on your caller ID may not match the official agency number
• They ask for your Social Security number, bank details, or payment information
• They pressure you to act quickly or threaten to cancel your benefits

What to do

Do not pay any money or give bank details to anyone who calls claiming to represent the unemployment agency. Hang up immediately and call the agency directly using the official number on your benefit statement or their official website. The real agency never charges fees to receive unemployment benefits and will not request payment over the phone.