[NJ_Law_Research]

am having a bit of a situation. Last July I was put out of commission by my company. I then opened an unemployment insurance claim. Being a forgetful person that I am, I created a little computer program that would counts the day and the month and automatically goes online to do the claim for me (the software is called Automate Enterprise by Unisync). When the check comes home my girlfriend would either cash or deposit the check for me (I usually just sign every paper she gives me to sign). That was all well and good until my company called me back to work, I shut my little program off but when the computer was reset it got turned back on and the claim went on for 21 weeks. After discovering (one month after) that I was getting money I wasn’t suppose to, I immediately went to the New Jersey Department of Labor and explained to them what happened and was willing to pay them back in full. They said that they will pull my pay record and work hour. They also said that they will either make me pay the money back or put me on fraud status. How likely will I be indicted for fraud? Could I also be fired for what happened?

[NJ_Law_Research]

I would also like to add that I had spoken to the lady who is in charge of Unemployment Fraud Investigation in New Jersey. She ask me for a copy of my driver lisence, a copy of my social security card and a copy of my voided check to aid with the investigation. I provided her with all the document she requested and asked her how likely will criminal charges will be pressed agains me. Her answer was "not likely". She also said that the investigation should take about a month. At the conclusion of the investigation I would be called in for a fact finding interview. She said at that point the amount that I owe the stat would be determined and then I can express my desire to repay. She also suggest to bring my checkbook or money order to the interview.

As of right now, I am just looking for opinion or experience.

Thanks

[aaron]

If you repay the overpayment in full at the interview, the assessment you received is probably correct - charges are "not likely".

(Don't bounce the check. )