Food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), are a vital resource for individuals and families facing food insecurity. However, SNAP benefits are sometimes targeted by fraud, waste, and abuse. Reporting suspected fraud is crucial to protecting the integrity of the program and ensuring that resources are available for those who genuinely need them. This guide provides comprehensive information on how to report fraud related to food stamps.
Understanding SNAP Fraud
SNAP fraud can take many forms, including:
- Recipient Fraud: Individuals providing false information to obtain or increase SNAP benefits.
- Retailer Fraud: SNAP retailers engaging in illegal activities, such as selling ineligible items or exchanging SNAP benefits for cash.
- Provider Fraud: Healthcare providers billing Texas Medicaid for abuse of prescription medications.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Office of Inspector General (OIG) are responsible for investigating SNAP fraud in Texas.
How to Report SNAP Fraud
If you suspect SNAP fraud, waste, or abuse, you can report it through the following channels:
- OIG Fraud Hotline: Call 1-800-436-6184 to report suspected fraud related to Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, WIC, or CHIP benefits.
- Online Reporting: While direct online reporting for SNAP retailer fraud might be temporarily limited, using the OIG Fraud Hotline is the most reliable method.
- State Auditor’s Office: Contact the State Auditor’s Office to report fraud, waste, or abuse regarding the expenditure of other state funds.
Essential Information to Include in Your Report
When reporting SNAP fraud, providing as much detail as possible will help investigators. Helpful information includes:
- Personal Information: The date of birth and Social Security number of the person you suspect is receiving benefits they are not entitled to.
- Contact Information: The phone number and address of the suspected individual.
- Provider Information: If you suspect a provider of wrongdoing, include the name and address of the clinic, office, or business where they work.
- Specific Details: Any other information that you believe might be helpful to an investigator. This could include dates, times, locations, and descriptions of the suspected fraudulent activity.
What to Expect After Reporting
After submitting your referral, you will receive a tracking number. Keep this number for future reference, as you will need it if you want to add more information later. The OIG is legally prohibited from providing updates on the status of any open investigation. Your identity and contact information will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law, ensuring your protection.
Reporting EBT Card Skimming and Requesting Replacement Benefits
If you believe your SNAP benefits have been stolen or that your EBT card (Lone Star card) has been compromised due to skimming or other fraudulent activity, it’s crucial to act quickly.
Immediate Actions:
- Cancel Your Card: Immediately contact the Lone Star card helpdesk at (800) 777-7328 to cancel the card.
- Replacement Card: A new card should arrive in the mail within seven days, allowing you to access your remaining balance.
- SNAP Fraud Benefit Replacement: Visit the HHS SNAP fraud benefit replacement page for detailed information on how to request replacement benefits.
The OIG Fraud Hotline does not process card cancellations or replacement benefits. These steps must be taken separately.
Dealing with Fraudulent Websites
Be vigilant about fraudulent websites targeting HHS recipients or related to HHS programs. If you encounter a suspicious website, report it as a cybercrime to the appropriate agencies. This action helps protect other SNAP recipients from falling victim to scams.
Guidance for Providers
Providers who discover an error in submitted claims have a responsibility to notify the OIG. Review the Self-Disclosure Protocol for detailed instructions. This protocol outlines the steps providers should take to report errors and ensure compliance with regulations.
The Importance of Reporting
Preventing fraud, waste, and abuse in the SNAP program is everyone’s responsibility. By reporting suspected fraud, you help safeguard taxpayer dollars and ensure that the program can continue to serve those who genuinely need assistance. Your actions can make a significant difference in protecting the integrity of this vital resource.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that SNAP benefits are used appropriately and are available to those who truly need them. Remember, even small acts of vigilance can make a big difference in protecting this vital program.
