Source: Federal Trade Commission
Unemployment benefits can be a life saver if you’re between jobs. But what happens if a scammer misuses your personal information, like your Social Security number (SSN) to file a fraudulent unemployment claim? That’s identity theft.
You might find out someone stole your identity when your state’s unemployment agency or your employer contacts you about unemployment insurance benefits you didn’t file. Don’t ignore the letter, which could lead to problems like wage garnishment or tax identity theft. Instead, take action: focus on moving quickly to stop the damage and protect your personal information.
Start by reporting the fraud to your employer. Then, tell your state workforce agency so they can investigate the identity theft. Finally, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. There, you’ll get a free personal recovery plan with steps to take. For example:
- Freeze your credit. Contact each of the three nationwide credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to place a freeze on each credit report. They’re free to place and make it harder for anyone to open accounts using your information. Get the links for each bureau at IdentityTheft.gov.
- Check your credit reports often. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to get free weekly credit reports from the three credit bureaus. Regular checks help you spot new fraud quickly. And if you spot accounts you don’t recognize, dispute any errors with the credit bureau.
- Set up an IRS PIN. Most people don’t need one. But if unemployment identity theft happens, opting in for an IRS Identity Protection PIN can help you protect yourself from tax identity theft. This six-digit number helps keep thieves from using your SSN to claim a tax return.
Share this advice with friends and family to help them protect against identity theft.