Unemployment fraud happens when people dishonestly claim Delaware UI benefits they don’t qualify for. This can include using someone else’s identity, hiding earnings, or providing false information about job status. The Delaware Department of Labor actively works to find and stop these fraudulent claims to protect the unemployment system. If caught, those committing unemployment fraud may face legal consequences and have to pay back the benefits they received improperly.
What is Delaware unemployment insurance fraud?
Unemployment insurance fraud occurs when claimants intentionally provide false or misleading information. Some individuals might provide wrong information to get or increase unemployment benefits, even when they know they’re not eligible. Others might hide their earnings or income while getting benefits.
Identity theft can also lead to UI fraud when someone’s stolen identity is used to get benefits.
The Delaware DOL Fraud Division aggressively prevents, identifies, and blocks UI scams. The division works with the U.S. Department of Labor to prevent and detect fraudulent activities related to UI, cross-match data with other state agencies and states, and invite tips from the public.
How to report Delaware unemployment fraud:
Email: [email protected]
To report fraud to the Delaware DOL, please send an email to [email protected].
When reporting fraud or identity theft, include the following information:
- Full Name
- Mailing Address
- Contact phone number
- Last 4 digits of your Social Security number
- A brief description of the fraudulent unemployment claim or other issue
If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact the Delaware Benefit Payment Control Unit in the following ways:
Fax: 302-761-6654
Drop Off Box:
4425 N Market St
Wilmington, DE 19802
Mail:
Benefit Payment Control Unit
P.O. Box 9950
Wilmington, DE 19899
The Department of Labor values tips from individuals and the public as they continue to aggressively identify and prevent unemployment insurance fraud in Delaware.
If you are a victim of Delaware unemployment fraud
If you discover fraudulent unemployment claims or identity theft in Delaware, there are several actions you can take. File a police report, and provide a copy of this report to the Department of Labor You can also place a fraud alert on your credit reports and review them from time to time to watch for fraudulent unemployment claims or other suspicious activities. Close any accounts that may have been tampered with or opened fraudulently due to stolen identity or personal information misuse. If your benefits are wrongly denied, you can file an appeal.
You can request free credit reports that can help you find signs of other fraudulent activities related to unemployment insurance fraud or identity theft.
Penalties for committing unemployment fraud
If you are caught committing fraud, you are responsible for returning the money, plus 18% interest and a 15% penalty fee. You will also be banned from collecting Delaware unemployment benefits for one year. You are also liable for criminal charges, fines, and possible jail time. It is very important to be completely honest when applying for UI benefits and submitting your weekly claims.
What is an overpayment?
Unemployment overpayment is when you receive more money in unemployment benefits than you are lawfully allowed to have. This can happen due to mistakes by the Division handling the benefits, by you, or by your former employer. One way to prevent overpayments is to know what to expect ahead of time. The Delaware unemployment calculator can help you estimate your weekly benefit amount.
If you receive money that you were not entitled to, the law requires that you pay it back to the Unemployment Compensation Fund. The repayment could also be taken from your future benefits. If the overpayment is due to fraud, like knowingly making a false statement, you must repay it with interest plus a 15% penalty fee.
Identity theft
Unemployment identity theft is a growing problem in Delaware and many other states. It’s a crime where someone steals another person’s personal information to claim unemployment benefits. This type of theft not only affects the government but also creates serious problems for the victims.
Unemployment identity theft happens when someone uses your name, Social Security number, and other identifying information to file for unemployment benefits in your name. This can lead to a lot of confusion and problems. For example, you might get a tax form saying you received unemployment benefits when you didn’t, or you might have trouble applying for unemployment yourself.
Criminals find ways to get your personal information through various means. They might use data breaches, phishing emails, or other scams to get the details they need. Once they have this information, they can file for unemployment benefits and collect the money pretending to be you.
How to protect your information
Protecting your personal information is essential to prevent unemployment identity theft. Follow these tips to stay safer online.
Be careful with your personal information
Don’t share your personal details like Social Security number or bank account information over email or text message. If someone claims to be from the unemployment office and asks for this information, verify their identity by calling the official number.
Check your accounts regularly
Keep an eye on your bank accounts and credit reports. If you notice anything unusual, like unfamiliar charges or accounts, take action quickly. This can help you catch any fraudulent activity before it gets out of hand.
Contact authorities
If you suspect that you’ve been a victim of unemployment identity theft, contact the unemployment office and local police right away. They can help you take the necessary steps to correct the issue.
Remember, protecting your information is not just about keeping it away from strangers but also being cautious about where and how you share it.