Michigan AG Warns of Scams as $400 Auto Insurance Refunds Go Out

Those with auto insurance in Michigan are eager to get their $400 refund checks - but be on the lookout for scammers!

Michigan's Attorney General Dana Nessel is warning residents of "bad actors" who may try to take advantage of the situation.

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We recently shared that the refunds began going out the week of March 6 and everyone eligible should receive payment by May 9, 2022. The refund is part of auto reform legislation which requires the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (MCCA) to return surplus funds to drivers.

Who is Eligible in Michigan to Receive the $400 Auto Insurance Refund?

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.
If a household has two vehicles under the same insurance plan, they will receive $800.

How Will Michigan Residents Get the $400 Auto Insurance Refund?

Drivers will get a payment from their insurance company directly deposited into their bank account or receive a check in the mail. 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.

Michigan Attorney General Warns of Scams Related to Auto Insurance Refunds

Michigan AG Dana Nessel reminds drivers that they do not need to take any action or supply any personal information to receive the refund:

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. 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.

Drivers are specifically warned of impersonation scams in which a thief pretends to be from an insurance company or government agency. If you're contacted by someone claiming to need personal information before your refund is issued, report the incident to Michigan's Consumer Protection Team.

For additional info on scams, Nessel has reissued her consumer alert focused on warnings to avoid falling for an imposter.

If you do have questions about the MCCA refund, you are encouraged to contact your insurance company directly or the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 833-ASK-DIFS.

DIFS has also launched a Frequently-Asked-Questions page at Michigan.gov/MCCArefund.