Reemployment Assistance Scams
Reemployment Assistance Scams
During these difficult times the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) warns of an increased threat of scams for individuals applying for Reemployment Assistance and small businesses applying for loans. Be aware of false website, emails, text messages, job offers, online surveys and many other notifications and avenues used to target vulnerable Floridians.
REPORT SCAMS:
You can also call 1-833-FL-APPLY (1-833-352-7759) or email ReportRAScam@deo.myflorida.com. Please note, this inbox is only monitored for reports of suspected Reemployment Assistance fraud and potential scam.
Tips to Avoid Scams
- No Fees. If you get a phone call from someone on behalf of DEO telling you that you need to pay to file for any assistance, whether for your business or you personally, do not give any information to the caller or send money.
- False Websites. There are several websites that advertise they can provide you free money. Some of those sites offer services free of charge and others charge for the services. These websites often ask for confidential or private information such as your Social Security number, address, work history and email address. Use only the official DEO website: FloridaJobs.org.
- Emails and Text. DEO will not ask for personal information or for you to verify your eligibility or identification by email or text message. If you receive an email or text message and you are unsure if it came from DEO, contact a representative by phone at 1-833-FL-APPLY (1-833-352-7759).
- Job Offers. If you receive a call from someone representing themselves as an employee of DEO requesting your credit card number and personal information in order to be hired, do not provide the information. DEO will not ask you for your credit card information.
- Online Surveys. DEO does not pay individuals to take surveys. If you receive an email requesting and promising to pay you to complete the survey, do not complete the survey. This is likely an attempt to get your personal information.
Reemployment Assistance Identity Theft
Reemployment Assistance Identity Theft
Identity theft is on the rise in both the private and public sector. Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s information to take on his or her identity. Identity theft can include wages and employment information as well as credit card and mail fraud. In the case of Reemployment Assistance benefits, it could mean using another person’s information such as name, Social Security number and employment information.
Identity theft is often discovered when:
- The victim attempts to file a Reemployment Assistance claim and one already exists for them.
- The victim receives an IRS statement of benefits collected (Form 1099G) from the Reemployment Assistance program.
- The victim’s federal or state income taxes are intercepted.
- The victim’s employer is notified that a claim for benefits has been filed while victim is still employed.
- The victim receives a request of information from Reemployment Assistance.
Report Reemployment Assistance Identity Theft
If you believe you are a victim of Reemployment Assistance identity theft or you're an employer and have an employee who is a victim it is important that you report it to us immediately by calling 1-833-FL-APPLY
(1-833-352-7759).
In order for the Department to properly handle Reemployment Assistance identity theft situations it is essential that both you and the employer complete and return any forms sent to you about claims filed.