Claiming Unemployment while working for free

[lakemakerjr]

I am considering Claiming unemployment while continueing to work at my current job (for free) to try and allow the owner to get caught up on passed bills. Would i be commiting fraud or doing something illegal.

 

[cbg]

Yes, you would be committing fraud.

Yes, you would be doing something illegal.

 

[Duranie]

Your employer is the one that pays the unemployment benefits. So I highly doubt he is going to pay this.

 

[lakemakerjr]

My employer has already agreed to this. Can anyone provide more info in regards to where "fraud" applies here. Your replies are greatly appreciated.

 

[cbg]

The fact that your employer has agreed to it does not make it legal, nor does it eliminate the fraudulent nature of it.

When you apply for benefits, you are stating under penalty of perjury that you are not working. It is a violation of both Federal and state law for your employer to allow you to work for free. It is fraudulent to claim that you are not working when you are.

Both you and your employer would be guilty of fraud and illegal practices.