Michigan AG Warns of Scams Over $400 Auto Refund Checks

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel warned residents to be aware of scams as auto insurers issue $400 per-vehicle refunds to eligible Michigan policyholders.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced earlier this month that auto insurers are required to send out $400 refund checks per vehicle to eligible Michiganders no later than May 9, 2022.

“These refund checks come at a time when many Michiganders have faced financial hardships, and I appreciate the bipartisan work done to achieve this win for drivers,” Nessel said. “Unfortunately, these refunds will likely attract bad actors who will turn this surplus into a scam. Remember, these are automatic payments back into your account. No one will call, write or email you for information prior to disbursing the money. And if you are contacted by someone claiming to need personal information before receiving your $400, remain skeptical and report it to my Consumer Protection Team.”

Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Director Anita Fox added, “Any time there’s a widespread distribution of money to consumers, criminals will try to take advantage, but DIFS and the Attorney General’s office remain committed to protecting Michigan consumers. You do not need to take any action to receive your refund. It will be issued automatically by your insurance company and only as a direct deposit or mailed to you as a check. If you have any questions about the MCCA refund, I encourage you to call your insurance company or agent directly or contact DIFS with any additional questions Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 833-ASK-DIFS.”

The Michigan Department of Attorney General warned that one type of scam that could arise is an impersonation scam – a bad actor may pretend to be with an insurance agency or government agency and contact an unsuspecting consumer under the guise of discussing their refund.

Refund details:

• Anyone who had a vehicle, motorcycle, or RV that was insured by a policy that meets the minimum insurance requirements to operate on Michigan roads as of 11:59 p.m. on October 31, 2021, is eligible to receive a refund for that vehicle.
• Eligible Michigan policyholders will receive $400 per vehicle, or $80 per historic vehicle.
• Refunds must be delivered in the form of checks or ACH deposits. Gift cards, premium discounts, and credits against current or future balances are not allowed.

Source: Michigan Department of Attorney General

Topics Auto Michigan