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Conn. Hopes To Recoup $2.5M In Unemployment Fraud

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- Connecticut officials say hundreds of people have defrauded the state by collecting $2.5 million in unemployment benefits they do not deserve.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell says state labor officials recently mailed notices to more than 800 people, giving them 60 days to repay or prove they do not owe the money.

Connecticut is also now partnering with the Internal Revenue Service to collect that money from the individuals' federal tax refunds if they do not willingly repay it.

Labor officials use programs to compare newly hired workers against those receiving unemployment benefits, and also match quarterly wage data against the jobless claims.

People who suspect fraud can also call 1-800-894-3490.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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