Food stamp fraud, also known as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) fraud, impacts everyone by increasing the cost of assistance programs and diverting resources from those who genuinely need them. Reporting suspected fraud is crucial to maintaining the integrity of these programs. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to report food stamp fraud, what information to include, and what happens after you report it.
Understanding Food Stamp Fraud
Food stamp fraud occurs when individuals or businesses misuse SNAP benefits. Common examples include:
-
Individuals:
- Providing false information on SNAP applications to receive benefits they are not entitled to.
- Selling or trading SNAP benefits for cash or other ineligible items.
- Using SNAP benefits to purchase ineligible items, such as alcohol or tobacco.
- Allowing someone else to use their SNAP benefits.
-
Retailers:
- Accepting SNAP benefits for ineligible items.
- Exchanging cash for SNAP benefits.
- Charging inflated prices for items purchased with SNAP benefits.
How to Report Food Stamp Fraud
If you suspect someone is committing food stamp fraud, you should report it to the appropriate authorities. Here’s how:
1. Contact the Office of the Inspector General (OIG):
Many states have an OIG dedicated to investigating fraud, waste, and abuse within their assistance programs. You can typically report fraud through their website or a dedicated hotline. For example, in Texas, you can:
- Report online: Click here.
- Call the OIG Fraud Hotline: 1-800-436-6184.
2. Determine What Type of Fraud You Are Reporting:
The reporting process may vary slightly depending on the nature of the suspected fraud. Be prepared to specify if your report concerns:
- Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, WIC, or CHIP benefits.
- Medicaid providers (doctors, dentists, etc.).
- Texas retailers accepting WIC or SNAP.
- Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of residents in state facilities.
- Improper actions by HHS or Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) employees.
- Abuse of prescription medications billed to Texas Medicaid.
3. Gather Information:
Providing as much detail as possible will help investigators. Helpful information includes:
- The full name of the person you suspect.
- Their date of birth and Social Security number (if known).
- Their address and phone number.
- The name and address of the clinic, office, or business involved (if applicable).
- Specific dates, times, and locations of the suspected fraudulent activity.
- A detailed description of what you witnessed or know.
4. Submit Your Report:
Follow the instructions provided by the OIG or relevant agency. Be sure to keep the tracking number you receive after submitting your report, as you will need it if you want to add more information later.
What Happens After You Report?
Once you submit your report, the OIG or relevant agency will review it to determine if an investigation is warranted. Due to confidentiality and legal constraints, the OIG is typically prohibited from providing updates on the status of open investigations.
Your identity and contact information will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law.
Reporting EBT Card Skimming
If you believe your SNAP benefits have been stolen through EBT card skimming, take the following immediate steps:
- Cancel Your Card: Contact the Lone Star card helpdesk at (800) 777-7328 to cancel your card immediately.
- Request a New Card: A new card should arrive within seven days.
- Report the Theft: Visit the HHS SNAP fraud benefit replacement page for more information and to report the theft.
Important: The OIG Fraud Hotline does not process card cancellations or replacement benefits. You must contact the Lone Star card helpdesk directly.
Provider Responsibilities
If you are a provider and discover an error in submitted claims, you have a responsibility to notify the OIG. Review the Self-Disclosure Protocol for guidance.
The Importance of Reporting
Reporting suspected food stamp fraud is everyone’s responsibility. By safeguarding these programs, we ensure that resources are available for those who truly need assistance. It protects taxpayer money and supports the integrity of vital social safety nets. If you suspect fraudulent activity, don’t hesitate to report it.
