Fraud Prevention

The Employment Development Department (EDD) is committed to maintaining the integrity of the Unemployment Insurance (UI) program. There are a number of ways that you can protect yourself against identity theft and UI imposter fraud. Employers can also control their UI costs and protect their employees from identity theft by partnering with EDD.

Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person's information to take on his or her identity. Identity theft can include wage and employment information as well as credit card and mail fraud.

Imposter Claim

In the case of an imposter claim, someone has intentionally filed a UI claim using another person's information such as name, Social Security Number (SSN), and employment information.

If you suspect a potential imposter claim, immediately report it online or call EDD's toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-800-229-6297.

Reported Fraud

If EDD receives information that an identity theft has occurred, EDD will place an indicator on those identities. When someone uses one of those identities to file for UI benefits, the Department will contact the individual who filed the claim and the employer for additional identifying information. Please assist us and provide the requested information in response to any inquiries from EDD.

For additional information on identity theft and UI imposter fraud please refer to the following brochures: