Benefit fraud

People who knowingly withhold information or deliberately fail to report a change in their circumstances are potentially committing benefit fraud.  Therefore, if you have any information of someone you think may be committing housing and or council tax benefit fraud, contact us immediately. All information is treated in strict confidence.

Report benefit fraud online

I reported a benefit fraud - why hasn't anything been done about it, or why wasn't I told of the outcome?

All matters relating to benefit claims are confidential and cannot be shared with third parties. The information provided by callers is used to gather the evidence needed to prove the case in court.

What information should I provide when I telephone or write in to report a benefit fraud?

Ideally we need a full description of the suspect, including height, build, hair and eye colour, distinguishing marks such as tattoos or scars, distinctive clothing or jewellery. Details of any car the person may drive and any regular patterns of behaviour will be helpful. It is always useful if you can provide details of employers or alleged partners if you know them.

Do I have to give my name and address when reporting a benefit fraud?

Not if you don't want to. If you do, it will be treated in the strictest confidence. It is always helpful if people are prepared to make statements that can be used in a court case.

I'm not claiming benefit any more. Why do I have to co-operate with the investigation unit?

We have a duty to make sure that all benefit claims are correct - no matter how old they are. We can investigate any claim as far back as our oldest record allows.

I've been invited to attend an Interview Under Caution. What does this involve?

This means that it would appear your benefit claim has discrepancies and questions need to be asked to clear the matter up. Because benefit fraud is a criminal offence, we hold these interviews under the Police & Criminal Evidence Act 1984. This is to ensure that the rights of the person being interviewed are protected, and to enable you to explain your version of events to us.

I can't afford a solicitor to come to the Interview Under Caution with me. What should I do?

You can get advice from the Citizen's Advice Bureau, and they may also be able to come to the interview with you.

What will happen once I've attended an Interview Under Caution?

There will be no further action if no evidence of an offence comes to light, although your benefit claim may still need to be adjusted. If there is evidence that an offence has been committed, we may offer you a formal Caution or commence legal proceedings.

What happens to my benefit whilst I'm under investigation?

I've paid the benefit overpayment back. Why isn't that the end of the matter?

The investigation is not affected by whether or not the benefit has been repaid - we are only concerned with whether a crime has been committed. If the case goes to court, any repayment you have made will be taken into account at the time of sentencing.

I am an employer and have been asked by the Council to provide details about one of my employees. Do I have to?

Yes. Our Investigation Officers has the power to demand to inspect your business records, and if you obstruct them in that duty, you may be committing a criminal offence. (This can also apply to landlords who have been requested to provide details of one of their tenants).

What changes in circumstance do I need to report to the Council's Benefits Unit?