Why did some Rhode Island unemployment benefits stop?

Rhode Island's unemployment claims have topped 211,080, but the Department of Labor and Training has certified around 150,000 (154,621 are COVID-19 specific).

"Some Rhode Islanders, out of frustration, filed seven claims, just like taking seven numbers at the deli counter. It doesn't work like that. We're still seeing a lot of claims, around 2,000 a day, down from a high of 15,000 a day," said DLT director Scott Jensen.

With storefronts shuttered and restaurants closed to dining, those unemployment checks are paying the bills right now. But, many out of work didn't get them this week.

"I haven't received my benefits after successfully certifying this past Sunday," wrote NBC 10 viewer Orlando, in an email to the station.

"My roommate and I are both having the same issue," wrote Shane. DLT is seeing those concerns, too.

A new link on its website simply asks people to explain what kind of challenges they're having with benefits, including any stopped payments. It's a fast track type problem solving feature. DLT is asking the public to avoid sending in multiple requests.

Fraud could also be a reason for a hold up on your unemployment check.

"There are many reasons why an account could be frozen, suspicion of fraud is one of them," said Jensen.

Rhode Island State Police Col. James Manni told the NBC 10 I-Team that his office, the FBI, along with other state and federal law enforcement are "investigating allegations of fraud involving stimulus unemployment benefits." Director Jensen was asked about the scope of the probe on Friday. "We can't comment on ongoing investigations for the sake of the investigation."

As the economy begins to open, employers are telling DLT it might be tough to bring some workers back, who are making more money at home with the help of that extra $600 bucks in federal stimulus.

"If they are staying home because they can make more money staying home, that isn't good cause and we'll disallow the benefits," said Jensen, who added there are good reasons for staying home (despite employment opportunities), like contracting COVID-19 or caring for a loved one.

If you suspect you've been the victim of unemployment fraud, you're encouraged to file a report:

Send an email to dlt.investigations@dlt.ri.gov or financialcrimes@risp.gov or call the FBI at 401-272-8310.

Department of Labor and Training website: www.dlt.state.ri.us.