Justice Department investigating EMC

SEATTLE — EMC Corp., the world’s biggest maker of storage computers, said the Justice Department is investigating allegations about the company’s sales to the federal government.

The allegations relate to EMC’s fee arrangements with partners and its compliance with the terms of certain contracts, the Hopkinton-based company said yesterday in a regulatory filing.

The probe isn’t likely to have a material effect on the business, EMC said.

The company is in talks with the government about resolving the investigation without admitting guilt. If the talks aren’t successful and the case goes to court, it could result in a fine or punishment barring EMC from selling to the government.

‘‘We did not make improper payments to business partners and did not violate the False Claims Act,’’ said spokesman Patrick Cooley.

The False Claims Act allows people unaffiliated with the government to file actions against government contractors. Part of the investigation overlaps with a previous audit by the General Services Administration related to EMC’s record keeping and pricing. (Globe staff and wires)