The government will not ask you to pay anything up front in order to receive the payment, the Federal Trade Commission says.
Amid the political disputes over a new economic relief bill, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued new guidance for Americans, warning of potential scams to avoid. The guidance details three scams for people to be wary of while waiting for the legislation’s direct payments, which could come through direct deposit or a check in the mail. The government will not ask you to pay anything up front in order to receive a stimulus check, the FTC said, adding, “Anyone who does is a scammer.” The second scam warns that the government will not call, text, email or contact you on social media asking for your personal information, including a Social Security number and bank account or credit card information. Any person who asks for this is, again, a scammer. Additionally, the FTC warns that there is no such thing as getting your stimulus check earlier or faster.
