I know someone has been abusing food stamp, what do I do about it?
Q) I know someone who has food stamps that they have been abusing what do I do about it
A) If you know someone who is abusing food stamps, you can report them to your state’s Department of Human Services (DHS). The DHS will investigate the report and take appropriate action, if necessary.
Here are the steps on how to report food stamp fraud:
- Gather as much information as you can about the suspected fraud, such as the person’s name, address, and how they are abusing the food stamps.
- Call your state’s DHS and report the fraud.
- Be prepared to provide the DHS with the information you gathered in step 1.
The DHS will investigate your report and take appropriate action, if necessary. This may include:
- Suspending the person’s food stamps
- Requiring the person to repay the money they have fraudulently received
- Prosecuting the person for fraud
It is important to report food stamp fraud because it takes money away from people who truly need it. By reporting fraud, you can help ensure that food stamps are used for their intended purpose: to help people buy food.
Here are some additional tips for reporting food stamp fraud:
- You can remain anonymous when you report food stamp fraud.
- You will not be penalized for reporting food stamp fraud.
- If you are unsure whether or not something is considered food stamp fraud, you can call your state’s DHS and ask.
Thank you for your help in protecting the integrity of the food stamp program.
EXAMPLES OF FRAUD
Following are examples of some of the things that people conceal or do not report in order to receive ineligible public assistance benefits:
Someone in the home beginning to work or quitting work
Actual earnings or income of all household members
Self-employment or doing odd jobs without reporting the income
Ownership of property
Money in the bank
Unearned income such as social security, child support, unemployment
compensation or veteran’s benefits for any household members
Everyone living in the home
Someone moving in or out of the home
Receiving assistance in one parish while living in another parish or state
Receiving assistance in more than one parish or state
Changes in a child’s attendance at day care