State unemployment agency warns of phone scam promising unpaid benefits

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) warned consumers about a wave of scam calls from individuals posing as UIA employees, who attempt to deceive residents into paying a fee for owed benefits. The UIA officials emphasize that they would never ask beneficiaries to pay any fees and provided secure ways to receive funds: debit card post or direct deposit. Residents are advised to verify all communications by calling the agency's Customer Service hotline at 866-500-0017.