During natural disasters, like the recent Vermont flood, scammers may try to take advantage of the chaos and vulnerable situations to commit fraud. It is essential to stay alert and be cautious when it comes to unemployment benefits.
Here are a few tips to help you avoid fraud:
1. Protect Your Personal Information
Never share your Social Security number, bank account details, or other sensitive information with anyone you don't trust. The Vermont Department of Labor will never ask for your personal information through unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages.
2. Be Cautious
Beware of individuals or organizations reaching out to you unexpectedly claiming to offer disaster-related assistance or asking for your personal information. Always verify the contact through official channels, such as the Vermont Department of Labor's official website or phone number.
3. Stay Informed
Regularly check updates from trusted sources regarding unemployment benefits, and disaster relief programs. The official website of the Vermont Department of Labor is the most reliable source of information.
4. Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect fraudulent activity or have received suspicious communications related to your unemployment benefits, you can submit a fraud report at: https://labor.vermont.gov/form/report-ui-fraud.
If you receive a direct mailing from the Unemployment Insurance Division and you have not recently applied for Unemployment Insurance Benefits, please contact the department’s fraud unit immediately at, (802) 828-4170).