The Tennessee Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is warning workers about an ongoing scam originating from other states, where fraudsters falsely claim to represent agencies similar to Tennessee’s Court of Workers’ Compensation Claims. Scammers contact individuals via phone, email, text, or video calls, impersonating judges, attorneys, state employees, or other officials, and demand payment—often through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or similar untraceable methods—to release workers’ compensation benefits or settle claims. They may use official-looking communications and create urgency by threatening loss of benefits if payment isn’t made immediately.

Importantly, legitimate workers’ compensation processes in Tennessee never require workers to pay money to receive benefits, medical treatment, or to settle claims; employers are responsible for covering reasonable and necessary medical care for compensable injuries, and the Bureau itself does not charge fees for assistance, mediation, dispute resolution, or any related services. Official communications will not pressure for instant action or request sensitive information/payment in suspicious ways.

If something feels suspicious, do not send money or personal details. Instead, verify independently by visiting the official Tennessee Bureau of Workers’ Compensation website at tn.gov/workerscomp or contacting them directly using phone numbers and email addresses listed there—avoid replying to suspicious messages, as email addresses can be spoofed. To help stop these scams, report suspected incidents to local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office, while preserving any related evidence such as messages or payment requests. For questions, contact the Bureau at [email protected]. Early verification and reporting can protect you and prevent others from falling victim.