KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Everyday citizens will soon receive some financial help from the federal government, but law enforcement is warning of scammers preying on those waiting for the assistance.
This week lawmakers are expected to pass a $2 trillion dollar stimulus bill package that will provide financial help for struggling industries, unemployed workers, and send direct cash payments to each individual.
In the current bill, persons earning up to $75,000 annually will be eligible to receive a $1,200 check, and married couples jointly earning up to $150,000 will be sent $2,400. The legislation contains provisions giving parents an extra $500 for each child under the age of 16.
The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office says they expect a rise in scams targeting individuals looking forward to the payments.
Some scammers may ask for personal information such as social security numbers in order to receive federal stimulus checks.
Another scam may ask residents to “pre-pay” for the checks by asking them to purchase pre-paid gift cards. The sheriff’s office says that persuading individuals to purchase gift cards is a common tactic by fraudsters.
The IRS has said that checks will be sent by direct deposit for all individuals who previously provided the agency with bank account information, including those who filed tax returns. Those who have not supplied bank account information to the IRS will receive federal stimulus checks in the mail.
The U.S. Treasury Department is planning to send relief checks and direct deposits out by within three weeks of the legislation’s passage. Many experts say the waiting period could actually be much longer depending on how the payments are processed.
Police are reminding the public that scammers typically increase their efforts during times of emergency or crises.
County residents unsure of whether a contact is considered suspicious is advised to contact their local police agency or the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office at (269) 383-8748.
