New job sent you a check to deposit?

A new 'employer' who sends you a check to deposit and then asks you to buy equipment, gift cards, or wire part of it back is running a fake-check overpayment scam. Paste the message for an instant read before you deposit anything.

Quick answer — Legitimate employers don't mail you a check to deposit and spend on equipment or gift cards. It's a fake-check overpayment scam — the check bounces later and you owe the bank back everything you spent.

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Why the check always bounces

Banks must make deposited funds available within a day or two, but it can take weeks to discover a check is fake. The scammer exploits that gap: you deposit their check, the money 'appears', they have you quickly spend it on gift cards or wire part 'back to the vendor' — then the check bounces, the bank claws back the full amount, and you're on the hook for every dollar you sent. The 'job' (mystery shopper, personal assistant, package reshipping) is just a cover.

What to do

Never deposit a check from someone you haven't verified and then send money back or buy gift cards — that's the entire scam. A real employer doesn't overpay you and ask for change. Don't act on 'available' funds from a brand-new check. Report it to the FTC, and if you've already deposited one, talk to your bank right away.

If you already paid or shared your info

Don't panic — acting quickly limits the damage. Do these now:

Deposited a check and then sent money or bought gift cards? Contact your bank now — fake checks bounce later and the bank reclaims the funds from you.
Put your own money or crypto into a 'task' or 'commission' app? Contact your bank or crypto exchange immediately and stop adding funds.
Moved money through your account for an 'employer'? Stop — acting as a money mule is a crime; keep records and report it.
Report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

FAQ

Why would a job send me a check before I start?

Legitimate employers don't mail you a check to deposit and spend on equipment or gift cards. It's a fake-check overpayment scam — the check bounces later and you owe the bank back everything you spent.

The check cleared — does that mean it's real?

No. 'Cleared' or 'available' funds aren't the same as a verified check. A fake check can be discovered weeks later, after which the bank reverses it and you're liable. Never send money back against a new check.

Official sources

This guidance is compiled from official U.S. government sources. For your specific situation, verify directly:

Last reviewed 2026-06-25. How we check & who's behind this →