Nessel, UIA alert residents to tax form for victims of ID theft in unemployment claims
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency are letting individuals know of important tax documents for people who may be victims of identity theft as a result of widespread fraudulent unemployment claims in 2020.
With tax season underway, the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has begun issuing 1099-G tax forms to all claimants who received unemployment benefits. If someone receives a UIA 1099 form but did not receive unemployment benefits, that person is likely a victim of identity theft and should report it immediately. The envelope containing the 1099 form from the UIA will include instructions on what should be done by victims of identity theft. Victims should follow those instructions closely.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the employment status of many Michiganders and allowed scammers to find new ways to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals,” Nessel said. “I urge anyone who may be a victim of identity theft to take action and report it immediately. This is also a good time to remind everyone to be cautious about sharing your personal and financial information with others.”
“We’ll continue to work to root out the imposter fraud that is impacting so many Michiganders,” said UIA Acting Director Liza Estlund Olson. “We urge everyone to follow the guidance on our website and from the Attorney General and IRS on protecting yourself and reporting identity theft.”
The law requires that the UIA issue a 1099 form to every claimant who received unemployment benefits, even those who reported identity theft. Once the UIA has fully investigated the identity theft claims, it will issue an amended 1099 form to those determined to be victims of identity theft.
Residents can visit the UIA’s website (www.michigan.gov/uia) for questions about reporting a fraudulent claim or filing 2020 taxes.
To report fraud or file a general consumer complaint, contact the attorney general’s Consumer Protection team. Filing a complaint online (www.michigan.gov/ag) is the best way to make a connection to consumer protection and provide a comprehensive report to the Attorney General’s Office to ensure investigators have the information they need. If a consumer is unable to fill out an online complaint, they can call the toll-free Consumer Protection hotline at 877-765-8388 and staff will provide a hard copy form to fill out and return.
Forms may be returned via fax (517-241-3771) or via U.S. mail, by sending to:
Consumer Protection
P.O. Box 30213?
Lansing, 48909
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