Unemployment Audit

Unemployment Audit: Avoid Getting Fooled

An unemployment audit in Minnesota is the process when the unemployment office asks lots of questions. Do not fall for these traps.

Because answers to questions from the unemployment office may turn into a bigger legal matter or appeal, take the audit review process seriously.

An unemployment audit is initiated through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (“DEED”).  For all practical purposes, DEED has the power to perform an Unemployment Audit Minnesota at any time.

Unfortunately, an UI Benefit Audit in Minnesota can inspire other issues through the Minnesota Department of Revenue, the Minnesota Department of Labor, and related agencies.

The biggest risks of an audit includes monetary penalties, being accused of misrepresentation or a crime, and kickstarting an audit from another government agency.

Unfortunately, these matters are happen under Minnesota Statute 268.168.  

Since COVID-19, audits have been on the rise. An Unemployment audit starts with a complaint and or an applicant miss classifying their job status.

Other times, audits happen as a result of misleading information shared on forms or during an appeal hearing.

Sometimes, people are able to distinguish their eligibility for unemployment versus an employer wrongdoing.  Other times, people cannot.

Here are a few issues that usually raise other questions.

  • Did benefits start and stop and start again?
  • Being classified as an independent contractor.
  • Did you receive wages from an unidentified source?
  • Did you receive severance or a lump sum cash payment at the conclusion of your job ending?
  • What does your job search process look like?
  • Ancillary claims for Worker Compensation.
  • Health Matters.

If any of these questions inspire a story or discussion, then I encourage using appropriate strategies to reduce future conflict.