How to avoid surplus funds scams
Warning signs
- Asking for money upfront to “release” your funds
- Asking for your Social Security number or bank login just to check
- Pretending to be a court, county or government agency
- Pressure to sign today, or refusing to show you the agreement
- Won’t tell you the amount or who holds it
How to verify anyone, including us
- Ask which office holds the funds and the case or sale number.
- Call that office yourself using a number from its official website.
- Read any agreement fully. You should see the fee in writing.
- Remember you can usually file on your own for free.
If you got a letter or call about surplus funds and aren’t sure, we’re happy to help you check, even if you never work with us.