Scam Type
Government Agency Imposter Scam
Business Name Used
NY Certificate Service
Date Reported
September 13, 2024
Postal Code
11218
Total Dollars Lost
$ 0
Scam Description
We just filed for a non-profit company with NY State. Less than 2 weeks later we receive in the mail a letter that sounds like it is from the State of New York stating “Congratulations on registering your business with the State of New York. Your Articles have been filed with the secretary of state and are complete…”
It goes on to say that I need to fill out the bottom form and send it in along with $87.25 for a “certificate of Status”. EVERYTHING about the letter makes it seem like it’s part of NY State except TINY type at the bottom that says “this is not a government agency.”
It was only by catching that type –that was easily overlooked– that I realized this was a scam. Also they only take checks or money orders.
It is stressful to make sure you’re doing everything correctly to set up a non-profit. You shouldn’t be dealing with such unscrupulous people as well.
