What are the penalties for intentionally giving wrong information to obtain unemployment benefit payments?
A monetary penalty of 40% of the total amount overpaid is assessed on all overpayments established as a result of a fraudulent act. In addition, interest is added to any outstanding overpayment or penalty amount at a rate of 1.5% per month. Applicants are ineligible for unemployment benefits until the fraud overpayment, including penalties and interest, are paid in full. For example, if you have a standing balance of $5 penalty or interest, you will not receive unemployment benefits even if your weekly benefit amount is $500. An additional administrative penalty of ineligibility for 13 to104 weeks may be assessed. Some cases are prosecuted under Minnesota Statutes that provide for prosecution of felony theft which may include penalties of up to a $10,000 fine and/or 10 years in jail.
