Reporting fraud can be just a few web clicks away.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, is often called by its former name, food stamps. The program helps an estimated 31 million Americans eat every month, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Depending on where the food stamp recipient lives, the program is administered by federal, state and possibly even local governments, meaning the bureaucracy can be cumbersome for those seeking to report fraud. To make fraud reporting easier, some states have put forms on the Internet.
Instructions
1. Question the food stamp recipient about the need for assistance. Keep flushing out a few clues if you want to blow the whistle. Actual fraud is a matter for the authorities to decide.
2. Find your state agency that administers the SNAP program for the federal government. Google "food stamps" or "SNAP" and the state name to determine what department distributes the assistance. For example, in Texas check with the Health and Human Services Commission. In West Virginia, check with Health and Human Resources. In Florida, check with the Department of Children and Families (see Resources).
3. Find the online fraud reporting form. Scan the website of the agency that hands out the food stamps. Look for terms such as "reporting fraud" or "fraud reports." If you find nothing, try a web search with the state agency's name and the term "reporting fraud." Not every department has an online form, but each will have a fraud-reporting telephone number. If you'd still rather type than dictate your complaint, call the number and ask the representative if there is a web page or an email address to make your fraud report.
4. Fill out the form. Tell the authorities as much as you can about the potential fraud. Give details on why you think it is fraud. Make note of anything the person has told you about the need for the food stamps.
5. Click "submit." Be prepared for any follow up questions that come from the agency by email or phone.
