THE WELFARE FRAUD PROGRAM

AUTHORITY

The fraud program was developed consistent with an amendment to 63.1-58.2, Code of Virginia, enacted on July 1, 1998. This statute required the Department of Social Services to establish a statewide fraud control and prevention program and required local social service departments to establish a fraud unit.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the fraud program is to reduce public assistance fraud, waste and abuse by ensuring benefits and services are received by eligible individuals and in the correct amount.

WHAT IS FRAUD

Fraud is the knowing employment of deceit or suppression of the TRUTH by a person in order to take something of value from another. PUBLIC ASSISTANCE FRAUD is when a person deliberately or willfully provides false information about his/her or another’s circumstance, or intentionally fails to report changes, in order to receive or attempt to receive benefits to which he/she or another is not eligible. Fraud can occur in all programs of public assistance.

HOW TO REPORT FRAUD

You can report suspected fraud by calling the Department of Social Services at 540-483-9247 and asking for the fraud unit. You may remain anonymous if so desired. You can report fraud in writing by mailing to the address below:

                                       Franklin County Dept. of Social Services

                                       11161 Virgil Goode Hwy.

                                       Rocky Mount, VA., 24151

                                       ATTN:  Fraud

Or by fax to 540-483-1933