How to Spot a Fake "Government Grant"

"Congratulations! You've been approved for a $9,000 government grant." It sounds great, and it's almost always a scam.

Red flags

• You never applied. Real grants don't show up out of nowhere.
• There's a fee. A "processing" or "release" fee is the scam.
• They want gift cards, wire transfers or crypto.
• They ask for your bank details or Social Security number to "deposit" the money.
• They push you to act today.

How to check

Real federal grants are listed at Grants.gov and USA.gov. Look up the agency's number yourself and call to confirm.

Real help does exist

Legitimate lenders and financial companies are licensed, explain their costs in writing, and never ask for payment in gift cards, wire transfers or crypto.

Already shared your details?

Call your bank, report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and consider a credit freeze plus identity monitoring for the months ahead.

Why older adults are targeted

Scammers know that many retirees have savings, good credit and a polite, trusting nature, and that many are home to answer the phone. None of that is a weakness. It just means it pays to know the tricks.

A script to keep by the phone

Write this on a card and keep it near your phone: "I don't make financial decisions over the phone. I'll call back using a number I look up myself." Then hang up. You don't owe a caller an explanation.

Talk about it

If you get a suspicious call or letter, tell a family member or friend. Scammers count on people staying quiet, and sharing stories helps protect your whole circle.