Today I got an unexpected check from the U.S. Treasury in the mail. I don't know what it's for, and the amount does not match up with anything from my tax return, but it's a sizable amount (over $2000). It looks legitimate, although I honestly have no idea what a forged check would look like. It came with no explanation of what it is for. I am wondering if it's OK to deposit this check, or if Something Very Bad (either governmentally or karmically) will happen if I do. >:D
You've probably already Googled this yourself by now, but if not, here's a page with some helpful info:
https://www.usa.gov/government-checks-payments
If you scroll down there's a subhead titled "Find out why you received a check from the government" – it has links and tips on how to verify that the check is real, and to find out what specific agency issued it and why.
Here's hoping it's legit!