Scam Alert: Workers’ Compensation Scams in New Mexico

The New Mexico Workers’ Compensation Administration (WCA) is aware of scams targeting workers. In these scams, individuals falsely claim to represent the WCA, a judge, an attorney, or the courts. Workers may be contacted by phone, email, text message, or video call and told they must pay money to receive workers’ compensation benefits or to resolve a claim.

These communications may appear official, but they are not legitimate.

What You Should Know

• The WCA and workers’ compensation insurance carriers do not charge fees to receive benefits or settle a claim. You should never be asked to pay money up front.
• The WCA will never request payment by gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or similar methods.
• Official communications from the WCA will not pressure you to act immediately or demand payment.
• If something feels urgent, threatening, or suspicious, stop and verify before responding.

Need Help Verifying a Message?

If you are unsure whether a communication is legitimate, do not send money or personal information. A WCA Ombudsman can help verify the status of a workers’ compensation claim and answer questions.

Contact a WCA Ombudsman

• Phone: 1-866-967-5667

• Email: Ombudsman.Outreach@wca.nm.gov

WCA Ombudsmen provide free, neutral assistance to both workers and employers.

Reporting Suspected Scams

If you believe you have been contacted by a scammer

• Report the incident to local law enforcement
• Report scams or fraud to the New Mexico Department of Justice https://nmdoj.gov/ | Submit a Complaint – New Mexico Department of Justice
• Save emails, texts, voicemails, and payment requests as evidence