You should never pay an upfront fee to apply for a government benefit, refund, or grant. Real programs do not charge to apply. Anyone asking for a 'processing fee' or 'release fee' is almost certainly running a scam.
- what this is
- Scam protection guide.
- who may qualify
- Everyone — this is a warning, not a benefit.
- what you may receive
- Knowledge to protect yourself.
- where to check
- FTC and CFPB official pages.
- cost
- Free
- deadline
- Ongoing
- state
- All
- last checked
- 2026-04-30
- watch out for
- Anyone asking for upfront fees, gift cards, or wire transfers.
Why scammers ask for upfront fees
It's the easiest way to take money quickly and disappear.
Common red flags
Pressure to act now, requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency payments.
What to do if you paid
Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and contact your bank or card issuer.
- program type
- Scam warning
- common benefit
- Protection
- who it may help
- Everyone
- application cost
- N/A
- availability
- Always
- main documents
- N/A
- risk warning
- Upfront fees = scam
FAQ
Some services like notarization or document copies have small real fees, but the application itself is free.
Related
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How to Spot a Fake Refund Email
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The Biggest Red Flags in “Free Money” Offers
If you spot any of these, walk away.
You should never pay an upfront fee to apply for a government benefit, refund, or grant. Real programs do not charge to apply. Anyone asking for a 'processing fee' or 'release fee' is almost certainly running a scam.
We link to the official source so you can verify eligibility, deadlines, and application steps before you apply. · Article last checked 2026-04-30.
Independent publisher. Claim What's Yours is not a government agency, law firm, tax preparer, settlement administrator, or benefits office. Always confirm eligibility, deadlines, and application details with the official source.