Welfare Fraud

Welfare fraud may be committed by an individual who is a welfare recipient. Failing to report income that has been received, understating assets or property, lying on a welfare application, making false statements, using another person's identity or ID in order to receive welfare benefits and receiving benefits in multiple states are all ways that a person may commit welfare fraud. Another common scenario involves fraudulently claiming dependents in order to receive increased benefits. Welfare fraud may be committed in connection with identity theft, mail or wire fraud and government fraud.

Penalties for welfare fraud may include: paying back the money which was taken, jail or prison time, community service and ineligibility to receive welfare in the future. Specific sentencing may vary depending on the amount of money involved, whether this is the offender's first conviction and the state in which the alleged act occurred. A first offense involving a small amount of money, for example, may result in the temporary suspension of welfare benefits. A more serious offense may be punishable by years in state prison and heavy fines.

Welfare fraud is taken very seriously by state governments. It is seen to affect the availability of funds for those who are legitimately entitled to receive welfare and for creating situations where people are living lavishly off welfare. It may even be seen to contribute to other criminal acts by promoting lack of productivity in children, who then turn to drug use or sales and gang involvement.

Accused of welfare fraud? What you can do.

In the face of criminal charges of any kind, a defendant has the right to an attorney. Choosing to exercise this right may end up making the difference between a criminal conviction and an acquittal or dismissal. It is important to discuss your particular concerns and questions with a local lawyer who has the qualifications you are looking for. Our directory makes it easy to find and compare attorneys who may be able to help you with your welfare fraud case.

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