Thanks for the help, everyone!
I agree that the underemployment figures may be understated (but also maybe overstated given the number of people that work “off” the books).
The 2.16% does, however, really help put things in perspective so that my (non-mathematical) mind can put things in perspective because, intuitively, I would have expected it to be much however but math is pretty definitive on the subjet (barring said issues).
The couple had moved from Michigan (w 14.6 unemployment) to Texas for jobs but found no jobs there. Then moved to Tennessee where an online friend was going to take them in but backed out at the last minute (in hindsight, probably for a reason). Someone paid them for a motel room but then had to leave to “go live w his girlfriend.” She and her 27 year old son needed a place to stay.
I was prepared to offer accomodations in my house. Had a pow wow with my trusted advisors/friends/employees and the vote was 4-0 that it was a scam (or worse).
The unemployment thing in Michigan was the math part. I was curious what the combined probability was. Of course, there were plenty of other red flags/concerns to make it a non-brainer. Still, the math part was very helpful in confirming the decision. (It was a loooong time ago before I took the combinations/permutations thingie in school so I was in the dark.)
Again, thanks! I don’t mind helping people in dire straights but the con artist/etc thing can really make one jaded. You all have earned your SD super hero capes!
edited: to resolve poor typing skills