Q: Got a notice from the State of Michigan Unemployment Department- please help!
I got a letter from the Michigan Unemployment Office saying a “question of eligibility and/or qualification has been raised on a claim in which you are an interested party”. The dates they want proof of income on range from 3/2020 all the way to 5/2021.
If I got unemployment benefits that I was not entitled to during this time, how likely is it that I could face criminal charges?
A:
You really need to speak to a lawyer soon, and preferably before you respond to the request for information. Whether criminal charges arise may depend on intent.
Just remember: there's an old tale that says it's not the act itself that gets us in trouble; it's often the explanation we provide that does.
A:
Adding to Mr. Geers: provided you were 'qualified' at the time you applied and that many months later the rules changed retroactively, you're at least not alone in letters of this nature. If that is the case they arising from pandemic related unemployment interpretation of the State.
If you were not qualified at the time you applied you're in a different class.
Regardless, you should contact an attorney and be prepared to hire.
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